I HAVE SAID that every tree can be a ladder to the stars, reminding us of who we are and of the unspeakable beauty of this planet on which we live. This first photo epitomizes that to me. Kathy and I found this dendritic statuary, these grand pillars of life, yesterday in a local woods. Perhaps our last stroll through the bright colors of autumn, as most of the flaming maple leaves have fallen. Now they carpet the earth, adding a spicy fragrance to the air. While high above, the stubborn red oaks hold fast as always. Back in our own woods, we still found one maple flying its flags, giving us one last burst of color. But it is the image of the cluster of black-trunked basswoods, reaching gracefully in unison for the sky, that will haunt my imagination.