I read this quote by Sig Olson and immediately thought of Bird Creek, just outside of Anchorage, Alaska.  Autumn is a fickle time in south-central Alaska; sometimes the land is full of color for a few magical weeks, other times a storm will come through and prematurely end nature's colors.

We would frequently drive the Seward Highway in the fall to enjoy the scenery.  By this time, the tourists have made their way down south making travel on the highway more enjoyable.  Bird Creek is a popular fishing location, but on this day we were the only ones there.  Aside from the occasional passing car, it felt as though we were deep in the wilderness.

Autumn is my favorite time to photograph.  It is a time of preparation, for the winter is quickly approaching.  But more importantly, for me, it is a time to slow down and enjoy the art of Mother Nature.