The Amber Express

I discovered this place on a guided tour,

by train, where they served Soup du jour.

We left the station and ventured forward.

First destination, the elusive October...

It came into view when we rounded a bend,

from ordinary scenery to beauty without end.

I didn't expect to be taken aback.

What I saw woke my mind with a sobering smack.

Trees came alive, flaunting their colors,

quilting the earth -- the home we call mother.

My mouth hung agape from at I could see.

For several transfixed moments, I forgot to breathe.

The train came to a halt, we all filed out,

to a magical scene without a doubt.

The organic scent of woodsmoke and damp earth,

gave a hint of what this day would be worth.

Pumpkin patches lay undisturbed,

blue ribbon worthy, I easily concurred.

I then saw a sign for scheduled events,

hayrides to the left, just beyond the fence.

Laughter was infectious on the bumpy ride,

leaving me elated, and full of pride.

Hot, apple cider awaited our return,

enhanced with spice that left a faint burn.

Wind churned the leaves into chattering spirals,

whispering a language that somehow felt primal.

I am but a thread in nature's rhythm--

a profound and rare thought flowing through my system.

The sun retires, deepening the chill.

The gift of night left me wanting more thrills.

Eerie shadows from the moon’s pale light,

gave way to creepy stories at the campfire site.

I wandered off alone to see more of this place.

A watchful curiosity written across my face.

I saw a scarecrow standing motionless in a field.

Adrenaline spiked before it's true nature was revealed.

Empty playgrounds had swings that swayed,

like ghostly children still frolicked and played.

A lone, porch light glowed at the end of the road,

attached to a cabin without electric, I'm told.

Quiet, dense fog crossed the path up ahead.

At first, I was excited but that soon turned to dread.

Leaves rustled through it, the source unseen,

perhaps a small animal, or something in between.

I returned to the site, reluctant to leave,

as the train's whistle called through the shedding trees.

The time had come to leave October behind.

I thanked the conductor for an amazing find.

The train departs along the silver tracks,

yet all my thoughts kept drifting back.

I left with memories and was deeply impressed.

I'll never again doubt that, Amber Express.