This morning, while Tyler worked with Charlie splitting wood, I headed over to West Arlington for another horsecart ride with the Washington County Draft Animal Association. It was colder than last time, and most of the leaves had fallen from the trees, but oh it was beautiful. I rode in Jan's cart again; we shared a blanket and chatted our way along the meandering River Road, listening to the clip-clopping of her team's hooves.

Just like last time, I was bewitched by the ride: the ancient-feeling horse cart, the slowness of travel, the way the sharp, cold air was filled with the aroma of woodsmoke, decaying leaves, and an earthy equine musk. Riding along with a chill wind in my face, I felt connected to the trees and fields and river around me, making me acutely aware of the changing seasons. Autumn's color was rapidly fading to grey, and the fields were barren, the bountiful harvest already squirreled away in preparation for a long, cold winter.

I can't think of a better way to spend an October morning. Thanks, Jan!