Thanksgiving Reflection

"Not what we say about our blessings, 

but how we use them, 

is the true measure of our thanksgiving."

                                                                                                                 --W. T . Purkiser

Birthday Treats

Since today is my birthday, I decided to give viewers a treat from the heart -- another glimpse of glorious fall colors.  These Japanese Maple leaves, ablaze in orange, yellow and red, ignite my senses, inspire my creative passions and sooth my soul.  Mother Nature's freebies are priceless wonders waiting to be discovered.  Go exploring!

"And forget not that the Earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair."

                                                                                                                                   --Kahlil Gibran

Burnt Orange Overload

“Every leaf speaks bliss to me, 

fluttering from the autumn tree.”

                                                                                  --Emily Bronte

Still Leaf Looking

By now it's apparent that I'm quite fond of autumn colors and the sensational images created by falling foliage and it's impact on the landscape.  Today, I've included more scenes from my trek through Backbone State Park.  These photos were taken about a month ago but the beautiful pictures remain as inspiration for a dark, cold and snowy start to November.  Long live the leaves.

Leaf Looking Continues

Like leaves?  If so, you're in luck as my adventures in these parts of Iowa yielded some pleasant images that contain lots of leaves.  As with the previous two posts, today's pictures were also taken in Backbone State Park.  The above photo is of the widely-recognized boathouse located beside the main beach.  From the river's edge the leaf-covered path winds uphill to the lodge.

The photo below is the perfect companion to the above landscape as the crispy leaves littered the lawn and walkways and crunched loudly while passing through them.

Honoring Veterans

World War II Memorial, Washington, D.C.

"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women 

in the service of our country can never be repaid.  

They have earned our undying gratitude. 

 America will never forget their sacrifices."

                                                                                                   --President Harry S. Truman

Still Leaf Looking

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

                                                                                                                           --Albert Camus

Leaf Looking

As one might guess, I love leaves -- their shapes, patterns, textures, lines, colors, simplicity, shade and so on.  Annually I make time to visit nearby Backbone State Park and always pay close attention to this moderately-sized maple tree.  Honestly, I think it is a Sugar Maple but do not know that with certainty.  Nevertheless, it is positioned in an area that is easily accessible and has a unique backdrop with a stonewall bordering the forest.  Of course, if you are familiar with the park, you already know that wall is a remnant of Iowa's first trout hatchery that operated until 1987.

Anyway, in the coming weeks, look for several images featuring the season's most beautiful foliage.  And, since the red, orange and gold hues are some of my favorites, there will be plenty of those gorgeous colors.