Last updated 13:39, Thursday, 02 October 2008

THE summer clothes have been put back into the wardrobe without being worn. As the trees begin to shed their leaves I put on more layers to combat the northerly wind.

The sunshine feels warm through the window but fails to heat me up once out in the fresh air. Mornings are decidedly nippy with the sun late in putting in an appearance.

Despite all the early gloom, I find autumn the best time of the year. I know it will be chilly so I dress accordingly.

The trees look as if someone has been busy with a paint brush. Slashes of yellow and gold appear almost overnight. In a few weeks we will be treated to a full display with both subtle and stark variations.

This is a perfect time to get out and enjoy the majesty of our heritage woodlands.

The change in weather was heralded by an amazing sunrise. The sky was slashed with red, gold and pink as the sun struggled to wake itself. This is a sign that a storm is on the way. Remember the rhyme? “Red sky at night shepherd’s delight. Red sky in the morning, shepherd’s take warning.”

I find these natural signs are just as effective as the TV weather forecasters. If it rains then I get wet. No amount of technology can prevent it.

When life is threatened by stormy weather

Seek shelter to withstand the pain

Gather your protection from those that care

Waiting to emerge once a rainbow appears