What October lacked in activity was made up for in color—I’m talking about fall color. Despite the very dry conditions (less than a tenth of an inch of precipitation), our mountains exploded with vibrant shades of red, yellow, and orange. I can’t remember a more vivid Fall season.
A few weeks ago, I submitted a post about a spur-of-the-moment trip to Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains. While I was fortunate to spot a bear among other wildlife, Mother Nature was the star as she slowly began lifting the curtain on the seasonal spectacle that draws millions to our region.
Last week, Helen and I joined about forty families from our church for our annual camping trip in the Big South Fork National Recreation Area on the upper western side of the Tennessee Valley on the Cumberland Plateau. Although we are the token grandparents for this three-day adventure, we wouldn’t miss it because it allows us to spend time with the young people of our congregation.
The energy of the children playing tag, biking, scampering through the woods, and singing around a campfire (all without a cell phone) is pure joy and a delight to witness. The colors at Big South Fork were at their peak, if not slightly past, and the weather was perfect; the meals, prepared by the outing organizers, were just as good.
The abundant color remains in the lower elevations, but a good rain (if it ever comes) would wash it out. I took the picture below of the trees in our neighborhood as an example.
In summary, we spent most of October leaf-peeping, leaving out a report of trips to the dentist, eye surgery, repairs to our camper, and no Trick-or-Treaters (again). I couldn’t do that to you. That’s our October–I would love to hear about yours.
We’ll come to you next from Edisto Beach, SC, so please join us there.
We’re Easin Along.
Wonderful colours on the leaves, on the fire and on Mortimer’s and the children’s faces! I love following your adventures Joe and Helen. You know how to do retirement right! <3
Hi, Donna,
It appears that you had a lovely month as well. Retirement is a great gig, and we’re blessed to have the opportunity to enjoy it to the fullest. Thanks, and please stay in touch. Joe
How wonderful to not only abide in the wonderful autumn colors, but to experience the warmth of friends on the camping trip, Joe! So heartwarming to see, especially the pic of Mortimer playing with the kids.
Hello!
We had a fabulous time camping with our church friends. Mortimer was a hit with the children and loved playing tug-of-war with them. Hope your Fall is still lingering. Thanks for checking in. Joe
I’ve been enjoying this warm weather along with the beautiful fall colors, and I’m happy you and Helen are, too! Anxious to “see “ what’s up next for you all and Mortimer!
Super glad for the picture of Allison, Davis (my, he’s so tall), and Mollie! We used to be neighbors when the kids were little! 💕
Hi, Kathy,
We first met the Blackwells on this outing when Mollie was a tiny little girl, and have had a picture taken with them every year since. They are a delightful family. Thanks so much for stopping by, and please come back. Joe
Mortimer looks like he was winning that tug-of-war without even breaking a sweat. 😂 So glad you had such beautiful fall colors and good times. We’re enjoying fall while we recover from Helene…lots of beauty even amidst the devastation.
Hey, there!
Mortimer gave it the “Bulldog Bite” and held on. The kids loved it! I’ve had y’all in my thoughts and prayers since Helene, and so glad that you’ve weathered it well (pun intended). We’re coming through Asheville tomorrow on our way to Edisto Beach. We’ll blow a kiss as we pass through. Great to hear from you. Joe
Joe, I’m sure everyone loves that you and Helen are the ‘token grandparents’ at this annual event. Bringing Mortimer along is just the icing on the cake! Thanks for sharing a bit of fall color.
Good evening, Suzanne,
We are the token grandparents with the big trailer and a television for cartoons and football. It is a true joy to have the kids, as well as awesome moms and dads sharing a delightful weekend with us. The fall color was too gorgeous to keep to ourselves–glad you enjoyed it. Always great to hear from you. Joe
Joe, you and Helen live in such a beautiful area of the country – I’m not surprised that your fall colors were spectacular. This fall, Alan and I worked our way east to Virginia for an RV rally then north to home. So we enjoyed fall colors for a long time throughout a number of states. It was a delightful way to end our camping season! Have a wonderful time in Edisto Beach!
Good morning, Mary,
Fall colors have been awesome everywhere this year, and they still linger here. We’re off today for some beach time (and granddaughter time), and I’m ready for both. Thanks for checking in–we’ll be in touch. Joe
Joe, Beautiful fall colours in your post and such fun time you had with your congregation. I look forward to reading your next post from Edisto Beach. Safe travels!
Good morning, Natalie,
We look forward to that event every year. The colors in that region are fabulous and we avoid the crowds that flock to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Great to hear from you. I enjoyed your latest adventure very much. Joe