Omayra Acevedo, Peak to Peak. Life is constantly reminding me that things happen when they’re supposed to. Even when I disagree with the timing. But how often do we truly feel ready for life’s surprises? Now, actually. This very moment would be a great time for things to start falling into place. Instead, I’m stuck waiting. 

So, I sit by the window, watch the aspen leaves dance with the breeze as the clouds threaten to shower us with rain. A lovely thunderstorm would be very much welcomed. As I stare numbly at the forest in front of me, I notice that a few of the leaves are already yellow. 

Some people aren’t aware of the science behind why leaves change with the seasons. In case you’re one of them, here’s a brief explanation. When summer gives into autumn, the days become shorter. Therefore, there is less sunlight. The leaves then prepare for winter and stop making chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is the molecule that absorbs sunlight and uses its energy to synthesize carbohydrates from CO2 and water. This is what’s happening when you see the green colors disappear and the yellows, oranges - and sometimes reds - take over. I’m a sucker for science and math. I find them fascinating. 

Just last week, I noticed that the Rufous Hummingbirds came and went; only one hummingbird moth visited my garden, and there were leaves on the driveway. I opened my autumn files and began my digital journey into one of our most colorful seasons. One of our most famous autumn drives is the Peak to Peak Highway. Honestly, it’s a great drive. However, there are so many other places you can visit to enjoy the changing of the seasons. Trail Ridge Road – but don’t forget to make your online reservation, Guanella Pass, Independence Pass, Golden Gate Canyon State Park and most likely your own backyard. If you’re willing to travel further, you can drive Kebler Pass in Crested Butte, Maroon Bells near Aspen or Buffalo Pass in Steamboat Springs. 

I’ve been expecting and waiting for the leaves to start changing, but I didn’t expect them to begin shifting so early. I wonder if nature is as unprepared as I am with the sudden change? Was the natural world equipped for transformation? I can’t help but wonder… Maybe the earth has no answers. Perhaps, just like the seasons, I’ll always be moving forward. Whether I am ready or not. 

For more information check out https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/300013

(Originally published in the September 3, 2020, edition of The Mountain-Ear.)