A touch of spice
The foliage colors of autumn may, for a variety of reasons, be especially subdued this year, but that doesn't mean there's nothing eye-catching in the woods. You just have to change your frame of reference. Look down and you'll find plenty of vibrant mushrooms. Look up, or at eye-level, depending on your height, and there are other visual delights, from the curious yellow-green flowers of the Witch Hazel to a host of brilliant berries. One of my favorites can still be found clinging to the Spicebush shrubs. These hot reds typically come in pairs, and according to a variety of sources, they're actually edible. I've never tried them and probably won't. I'm happy to seek out other kinds of fruit... and leave the Spicebush harvest to the birds.