Autumn – those wonderful days with a crisp chill in the air and cool breezes are a welcome relief to the sultry and humid days of summer. With brilliant blue sunny skies complimenting the trees with fiery red, orange, and golden leaves that fall and cover the ground so that you are surrounded with such a radiance that it makes your heart sing, it’s hard not to find myself standing in awe of this majestic and magical show that nature puts on every year.

But my body does not like autumn in New Jersey. In fact, starting September, my body starts to have allergic reactions to pollen and mold spores. Many times, it’s like hay fever – sneezing and watery eyes. And other times, I have full blown sinus and ear infections. Today, I have a headache with a twinge of nausea.

But even though, my body dislikes autumn, I can still enjoy autumn’s beauty and be thankful. I try to not to let my allergies get me down. Somehow with the dying of things green, I am more keenly aware of what I often take for granted – looking deeper in my heart for what really is of worth and what should be noted as blessings. Looking through the lens of my camera can help me get through those hard days. And I can step outside and say it really is a beautiful day! Nature is putting on a glorious show outside and I want to celebrate its beauty.

The transparent haze which rests upon the mountain-top at noon,—the calmness in the air, and the clearness of the sky, now have a most mysterious influence upon the heart. The “still small voice” of nature makes us thoughtful; and seems to invite us to think upon the swiftness with which our days are passing away. How often at such an hour, have I been startled by the beating of my own heart! And the sunsets of Autumn,—are they not gorgeous beyond description? more so than the brightest dreams of poetry?
~Charles Lanman, “The Dying Year,” 1840

Lord Stirling Park in Basking Ridge, NJ
Maple leaf on moss covered wall at Lord Stirling Park in Basking Ridge, NJ
Great Swamp National Refuge, Basking Ridge, NJ

What are you thankful for this day?

Festival of Leaves