Maple Madness

The beautiful fall colors have not yet started to show on the big leaf maple trees yet, but they are showing signs that fall is near.
The tight clusters of seeds are beginning to turn from the bug-green color they had all summer to the ripening color of light brown.
About the time the leaves develop glowing oranges and yellows, the seeds separate from the tree.
The seed clusters are huge this year and before long they will mature and turn rich brown before cascading down in a riot of twirling helicopter-like blades.