Rose River Loop (A) - 0007

You have heard me say many times that Central Virginia is one of the most beautiful places in the world. And this photograph proves it. I went hiking with a very close friend this past Sunday (09/30). We drove up to Big Meadows on Skyline Drive and before we started our hike, I took this photograph from Fishers Gap Overlook. As you can already see, autumn is starting. Being an avid lover of Classical and Broadway music, this photograph reminds of the musical "On A Clear Day You Can See Forever", and of course, "L'Autumno" from Vivaldi's "Le Quatro Stagioni", i.e., "Autumn" from the "The Four Seasons". Visiting a place like this soothes me. After visiting I feel less encumbered by what's going on in my life. All of us lead busy lives and I am no exception. So when I can get away to a place like this, I come back feeling rejuvenated and refreshed. 

I love photographing each season in Central Virginia. Each has its own special beauty and if you asked me which one I prefer, I would not be able to answer the question. So if you would, please let me share with you what I like about autumn. First, it is a season of change. Nature prepares for the upcoming winter. The trees lose their leaves from summer, and as they do so they change from green to gold, to orange, to red, with a color palate that would be the envy of any artist (including me). Second, autumn is a celebration of the harvest. Summer crops have been harvested and winter crops are being planted. Fall is apple season. As a matter of fact, I will be photographing an apple butter festival next Saturday (yummy!). Apples are used to make cider and apple wine (especially yummy!). Finally, autumn is football season, when the World Series is played, and, when I get my skis tuned for the upcoming snow sports season.

Each season brings is own beauty. So enjoy autumn. Enjoy it's grandeur, it's splendor, the change from warm nights to cool ones. Enjoy the nip in the air that autumn brings. Enjoy jumping into a big pile of leaves. Enjoy autumn. Enjoy life.

Oops! I forgot talk about my hike. My friend and I walked the Rose River Loop Trail, which is about 4.4 miles long with a change in elevation of about 800 vertical feet. Although the Rose River is known for its many water falls, including a 50 footer, there river was low and the waterfalls were mere cascades. But it was still a great hike, and a great way to prepare for the upcoming ski season.

Until next time,

Paul