I’ll blame She Who Must Be Obeyed. I innocently remarked that it was an absolutely beautiful morning. She replied, “Yes, a perfect morning to go to Hinckley Lake.” I had the day off (having worked last Sunday) but I had other activities in mind for the day. I headed to Hinckley anyway. Along the way I noticed how the low sun was setting the ripening soy fields aglow.

Grass seeds also ripen in the fall.

All of the seed-producing plants are finishing their job for the season. That includes the wild grasses that grow along the roads and streams. I found one grass seed head beautifully isolated against the plain background of a stream.

Panorama of the sky, trees, and waters of Hinckley Lake on a beautiful fall day.

Hinckley Lake was a wonderland of light and color. Many trees wore yellows and reds. Many a leaf has already fallen to the ground. No large birds (other than buzzards) were to be seen. The greatest wildlife activity was from numerous chipmunks and squirrels scampering about the forest floor, apparently gathering seeds as food.

Too many sights. Too many photographs. Too brief was the magical light present.

Of course I got nothing done I had planned for the day.