Fall colors, welcome back

Early fall foliage as seen from Cloudland Road in Pomfret, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

On the heels of that first rush of cool autumn, here come the colors. In Vermont, the fall foliage is popping up everywhere — and it's one week early, experts say. 

It's a visual breath of fresh air, to see the mountains light up with reds, oranges and yellows. Though it marks the end of summer, many might be ready for fall after the brutally humid days many experienced in New England this year. Already I hear many conversations of baking for the upcoming season — we all know about those apple creations, and many others. That late-afternoon cup of tea will increasingly make its appearance, too, as those temps drop to autumn lows.

Not so fast, though. This weekend, everyone's getting outside to catch that last gasp of summer, with temperatures in the 70s throughout the region. It's a time to not only enjoy the beauty of our natural surroundings and attractions, but to do what we can to support local businesses, many of which need every bit of income as the fall season revs up. For that reason, it was a good feeling to head through downtown Woodstock and see lots of traffic on Saturday. Hopefully that continues here and throughout other nearby states, with of course the need to follow the state and local restrictions in place to keep everybody healthy. 

As with every season in 2020, this one will look different in many respects. Numerous big events are cancelled, and other traditions are also off the table. But there are still ways to enjoy this time of year, connect with others, and sustain a sense of community, including showing kindness to one another, even amid challenges. If we’re determined to do that, nothing can take away that great feeling we have when adding to the world’s good, and sharing it with others so they can benefit, too. That approach to community is a powerful force — one that makes any season brighter.

— Gareth Henderson