'snow more snow!

It's amazing how quickly things can change.  In the span of a week, our favorite hiking trail changed dramatically!

Our little bit of snow...

...quickly melted as we returned to bright blue skies and warmer temperatures.

Still, I could see rapid changes in the leaves.  In only three days, the red leached out of these oak leaves.

A benefit to 70 degree temperatures in November is finding new plants!  This is an herb known as shaggy or gallant soldier, from the Latin Galinsoga (strangely, the genus itself was named after Spanish physician Ignacio Galinsoga, who was not a botanist, but someone who was famous for his anti-corset views).  

Wild ginger has also been sprouting!

I've been seeing caterpillars again...

But sadly, these extreme temperature fluctuations are too much for our local praying mantises. I know I complain about them, but it's kind of sad to see them splayed about like this.

I do like the opportunity to get a closer look at their wings.  Their veining is so much like fall leaves.

With this latest temperature drop (73 to 29 degrees in a single day, the latter being overnight temp), I'm afraid we've seen the last of the red leaves...

...and berries.

We're working outside while we still can!

I mean, Todd is.  ;)

Have a great week!