Cars line the road leading to Winslow Hill as people stop to look at several elk that gathered on a hill next to the road. Thousands of people will visit Elk County this year, hoping to catch a glimpse of the animal. Winslow Hill is a popular spot to view elk. KIM MOERSCHBACHER/THE EXPRESS

A couple months ago, I asked Kevin if he wanted to go on a trip. For me, the month of September has special meaning. Not only does my birthday fall in the ninth month of the year (thanks to all who wished me a happy 24th), but it also marks the beginning of autumn, my favorite season. The rich, deep colors of fall have begun to show as the weather gets cooler and days become shorter. Apple cider is abundant at roadside stands, as are bright orange pumpkins, gourds and other autumn treats. As I began to think about all of this earlier in the year, I also started to think about my favorite wild animal — elk. I know, going from apple cider to elk hardly seems appropriate, but hey, at least it all has to do with the outdoors. So anyway, I asked Kevin if he wanted to take a trip to Elk County with me and celebrate the eighth annual elk expo — a festival I hadn’t been to since 2002 and was just dying to take part in after all these years.