‍

Each year, I’m deeply moved by the vibrant colors and reflective power of the fall season. Fall is the season of renewal—not the fresh blossoming of spring, but a different kind of renewal that invites introspection. The changing leaves and crisp air seem to stir memories of the past, often bringing to mind losses and moments that shaped us. There's a quiet clarity in this season that makes you pause and reflect in ways that being indoors never could. Here’s my take on fall and how my visit recently to the nearby Valley reminds me of how vital it is to reflect on all that is important to us.

‍

‍

The Virginia Kendall Ledges in the Cuyahoga Valley, Ohio, embody this power of reflection. These rugged sandstone formations, carved by glaciers and 300 million years of erosion, stand as a reminder of nature’s timelessness. Indigenous tribes were the first to experience the mystique of these ledges, and thanks to conservationist efforts, they became part of Virginia Kendall Park in the 1920s under the guidance of Cleveland industrialist Hayward Kendall. Eventually included in the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area in 1974, the site became a national park in 2000. Future generations can now wander through these storied ledges and feel their presence of history, solitude, and strength.

It holds a special place in my heart. Introduced to me by my dear best friend who died in 2017. The moment captured in the image above, which includes my best friend, is the moment I first saw these ledges.

‍

‍

I’m drawn to the outdoors, especially in the fall. When I’m inside, I sometimes feel disconnected, removed from what truly grounds me. As much as I’d love to live out in nature, life keeps me tethered to modern conveniences. But stepping into places like the Cuyahoga Valley reminds me to look beyond myself. The crisp fall air, golden leaves, and towering ledges give me a sense of perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere.

‍

‍

Last year, I even biked a 40-mile round trip to escape to this valley. I could barely feel my legs when I returned to Kent. This time however, joined by my friend Heidi Weisel and her Splash Green Mazda Miata, named Thelma Louise, we took a journey through this autumn tapestry. Heidi and I find inspiration in each other, motivating one another to pursue meaningful experiences and causes. Thelma Louise, Her Miata—small, agile, and powerful—gave us an exhilarating ride through winding roads under the fiery foliage. The drive was more than just a drive; it was a celebration of freedom, a rush of exhilaration. Immersed by sights and sounds of the valley, we felt truly alive, soaking up nature’s colors and rhythms.

I’m not the kind of guy whose intrigue stops at ‘looking’, when it comes to new experiences. I yearn to be involved. As if ‘getting to know things’ in a way. Though I typically miss my opportunity for these things or it just isn’t the right setting. I knew it was a beautiful sports car when I heard the name, I saw it later. I couldn’t have anticipated the greatness of this cruise. You can assume that when I saw Thelma Louise for the first time, I said to Heidi “You and I need to take a trip to the valley soon. In this car”. She accepted. “Please make me go” Heidi agreed, we both could benefit from an enriching adventure.

‍

‍

The winding roads give me insight on the challenge to build such communities in and around this valley so long ago. This land is a school of wisdom that is palpable and intense. Any comparison between people and the magnificent Cuyahoga Valley is humbling. The magnitude of all this; reminds me, we may be shakers and movers, we are not exempt from our true place on this planet. Together we have the power to take care of this earth and one another.

As Heidi safely wound through the fall foliage above and around us, the Miata was having a great time too. I love the sound of a powerful engine. The space was so intimate but so liberating and was so relaxing, opened up to the world around us. It was an experience I can only remember having once. However, that was on the back of a motorcycle when I was young, in an urban NC neighborhood, just around the block. Nothing like this ride. At one point we were only savoring splendid music; drinking up the smells and visuals from our surroundings.

‍

‍

Heidi and I came across Camp Butler and Camp Manatoc where she recalls spending most of her son’s childhood where together they contributed to and participated in both camps. Of course we couldn’t pass up a drive through the two camps.

Camp Butler and Camp Manatoc are two historic scout camps nestled in Cuyahoga Valley, Ohio, spanning over 800 acres combined. Camp Manatoc, established in 1923, became the primary Boy Scout camp for the Great Trail Council, thanks to the support of prominent Akron businessman Karl Butler, who recognized the importance of outdoor experiences for youth. Camp Butler, named in his honor, was added later as a Cub Scout camp, expanding the area for younger scouts. Together, these camps provide a place for skill-building and nature appreciation, fostering the development of thousands of scouts each year in a protected, scenic environment.

‍

‍

Again Thelma Louise the *Splash Green* Mazda Miata **proving itself. Coasting smoothly but steeply up and down long secluded, and rigorously narrow gravel roads. The purpose of our journey was I believe a combination of two things.

Investing in adventure.

Passion for the planet.

Sometimes, we all get so absorbed in our own human lives that what we really need is a real experience in a surreal place. Now I know that traveling in a gas powered metal box may not be the most unreal experience, but it is more than staying inside. Maybe it’s a place you’ve been before or maybe it’s somewhere completely new. Wherever you go; there you are. What if you could become who you are by traveling around, seeing the world and as you take yourself around you’ll grow from the experience no matter what it is.

‍

In this case my friend Heidi and I took advantage of our freedom to explore and decompress from daily life. Some people do not get this opportunity. If you are able I encourage you to plan a visit somewhere natural near you. Whether it’s just a simple yard with trees or a 30,000 acre sprawling valley. Go to that place and let the becoming happen. I love visiting these places regularly. I’m so eager to see more of the world. I plan to go back to Virginia Kendall Ledges soon this winter. Who knows maybe I’ll be able to pull off making this a regular annual visit for myself.

‍

‍

As fall is here, count your blessings. Refine your faith. Most of all seek to produce love in and around you. Let the light from the sun guide you. The indoor season is coming and time doesn’t stop. Take in your family. Go now in peace with hope that the following lyric resonates with you.

‍

It's the big-time life that I can't abide

Raise my rent, tan my hide

Sweet call of the countryside

Go down slow, open wide

I did my time and it changed my mind

I'm satisfied, oh

-James Taylor (October Road)

‍