Autumn's Frosty Zinnia Brushwork

Poor zinnias. Each year, it seems, our zinnias barely reach their most resplendent glory mere days before cooler nights dull their brilliance.

Some years morning frosts bite lightly over a matter of days and -- even though zinnias are hardy -- very gradually wear them down. Other years years -- like this season -- the first frost is hard, brutal, and in one day wilts the beautiful blossoms quickly into mulch.

And so, this year, the last glorious glow of our garden zinnias is an image of the last vestige of full, rich color enshrouded in icy crystalization... and the first visual reminder that this year the seasonal chill crept in literally overnight.