Shoulder Season is Here

/
On Frog Mountain trail, looking east toward the Skykomish Valley

FroG Mountain Trail, ©2025 Nicole Bratt

Dear fellow humans,

Despite yesterday’s one-day heat wave in Seattle, fall is distinctly in the air – the shorter days, the quality of light, the fading flowers of my garden (except my rose bush which is having a second wind).

In my neighborhood last week, I noticed the first leaves crunching under my feet, and the first acorns and maple tree “helicopters” on the ground.

Last weekend, I hiked the Frog Mountain Trail with a friend (highly recommend, Seattle-area hikers!) – enjoy the photos from my hike! Along with breathtaking views, I spotted vine maples turning their brilliant reds against the lush green hillsides. And I basically snacked my way up the mountain – wild huckleberries and blueberries were literally everywhere!

I usually find “shoulder seasons” bittersweet: in this case, saying farewell to the joys of this vibrant, full summer, and embracing the joys of the coming autumn. A reminder that time marches onward, always.

Wishing you ease and beauty –
Nicole

Frog Mountain trail path looking toward a clearing

FroG Mountain Trail, ©2025 Nicole Bratt

Two huckleberries in the palm of the author's hand

FroG Mountain Trail, ©2025 Nicole Bratt

Landscape scene of the Skykomish River and the treess and mountains beyond

SKYKOMISH RIVER, ©2025 Nicole Bratt

Author standing on the peak of Frog Mountain with the northern mountains behind her

FroG Mountain Trail, ©2025 Nicole Bratt