I’m getting ready to publish my 2009 Calendar.  If you haven’t received one previously and would like to, just let me know: 828 264 1434.  Or email me at Helen@CoeRealty.com

More winter greys and browns, with blue tinges.  The open field is the former location of the Colt house. Mp 294, Blue Ridge Parkway, Rich Mountain Trail, overlooking the escarpment

This grove of young birch trees is growing up in what would have been pasture in Mr. Cone’s day. Rich Mountain Trail, mp 294 Blue Ridge Parkway

Winter brings muted colors to the forest and gives us a change to appreciate the ‘bones’ of the forest — the tree trunks and branches.  This tree is located on the Rich Mountain Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, mp 294.

After viewing so many great photographers great photos of White Sands National Monument in Alamagordo, New Mexico, I was thrilled a year ago to visit it myself.  The early morning light creates many fine shots.

 
I enjoyed the contrast of sunlight on the still brightly color leaves, behind the grey treetrunks with their interplay of shadow and sunlight.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Rich Mountain Trail Nov 7

Nov. 7, Blue Ridge Parkway, Grandfather Mountain
The striking Fall colors have passed, for the most part.  I love the winter colors, too — the greys and browns and greens.  Muted color that is quiet and peaceful after the invigorating splendor of leaf color at its peak.

 
Even though most of the spectacular Fall leaf color is now brown litter on the ground, some trees have held onto their leaves.  The sunlight struck this oak leaf brightly.  Nov 7 2008

Hiking on the Rich Mountain Trail above Trout Lake, the silence was broken by many birds’ calling out.  Looking around, I saw robins darting swiftly back and forth among the branches and over the trail.  I realized they were gathering to head south for the winter.  I was able to get a couple shots of this robin.  Nov. 3