Winter?

We seem to have changed from summer to winter in about 48 hours this year.  And it's come rather early too.  It's not just us humans that have felt it but the trees.  I was told some time back by a naturalist that it's the combination of lower temperatures and less sunlight that makes an enzyme in the trees (and flowers) begin to change color and eventually lose their leaves.  Up here in Alpine country we have mostly  pine trees but if you keep your eyes open there are a lot of other deciduous trees with wonderful colors.

How about these two beauties side by side

This was tucked away in someone's backyard, too bad they were not there to enjoy it.