I'll tell you what, I hardly know where to start, which truthfully is not that uncommon, however, I really mean it this time!! Shall we start with the pickleball tournament that I photographed a week ago Saturday? Or our road trips to see leaves? Let's do the tournament because who doesn't like to see a bunch of playful seniors out in the bright sunshine and chilly temperature?
Our friend Linda organized it to support children who have need for physical therapy and our group delivered, raising $1,200 for the cause. Because of the sun's location, there really was no good spot to do a group shot so I started with a test shot of Linda to begin with.
Satisfied that it was the best that I could do, we gathered the troops and after five or so shots, I got one that had the most people looking my way.
These are some of the ladies I play with, Kim, Nancy, Linda and Terry. Each and every one of them is better than I am. (boo hoo)
So unlike the last tournament when I thought I would faint with the heat, this time it was more than a little chilly, however, I'm all for it if I have to choose one or the other! Below this is Jack, the best player in our group and of all things, he is from Orlando!
Both coasts of Florida are well represented here in Murphy, but it is rare to find another Orlandoan. Not only is Jack an exceptional player, he's a nice guy as well, a winning combination.
Lastly, as far as the tournament goes, our friend Curt who has been struggling for nearly two years with a spinal cord leak, came out to play and surprised himself with his energy. His determination is remarkable.
Curt is wearing the gray shirt and you may remember him for his home pickleball court with the incredible mountain views that we have had the privilege to visit often.
Most of the week has been spent in leaf peeping in one place or another. After church on Sunday we visited the pizza place we like in downtown, where the owner does most of the cooking. Their pizza oven is quite impressive to me.
Yup, wood-fired.
Shoot, before I finish that day, I've been meaning to show you the number of starlings that have been providing us with quite the show lately, a mini murmuration if you will.
It is so fun to watch them fly in a formation of sorts.
Okay, back to Sunday afternoon when we began our leaf peeping week. Right in the town of Andrews I spotted this tree that I am calling the Taco Bell Imposter because it is so similar to the one Karen showed us in front of Taco Bell on our first visit here. Sadly that tree is no longer there, but this one does a pretty good imitation. That said, I just looked up that blog post and I may have to retract that statement after seeing it again. Make sure to click on the link!
We went to the little downtown park with the walk along the river. A playground is being constructed with, I believe donations both in labor and money.
As you can see we pretty much have the park to ourselves. The leaves were beginning to change, and the river was lovely in the afternoon light.
While in Andrews we went to their pumpkin patch adjacent to the depot for the rail/bike tour, something we've yet to do but I've heard is fun.
You know me, I love that valley and we saw it from the other side because rather than using the highway, we used a two lane road that was there before the "four lane" as locals call it.
I love how at this time of year the contours of the mountains are so prominent. While we were on Airport Road, we took the time to look at the completed Core Scientific AI facility, a source of growing contention in Cherokee County, as well as nation-wide. No one wants them. Whether they use up too much water, or electricity, I have no idea, but there are plenty around here who are up in arms because nothing can be done about this one, however, other companies are wanting to build here. I will keep you posted. One thing I can say is it sure looks out of place.
A very foggy start to the morning on Monday, when we arrived at the courts; I decided, after one miserable game when I was "pickled" to take my camera out for a walk.
The playground trees were showing off big time. The wildflowers were out in full force.
The abandoned railroad bridge could be made out in the fog. but don't you think it sure makes it look mysterious,?
Spider webs!! Just in time for Halloween, which is two days away. Randy brought over a stash of candy, so between his, ours, and the Libers, we hope we won't run out during trunk or treat. It is very expensive these days.
I will admit that I have taken a LOT of photographs this week because we are in the midst of a color surge or that's what I'm calling it. Every day more trees show off their true colors. (note the almost full moon!)
The senior center, the library, and the water and electric office are all located along Alpine. Springdale is the next street over from Campbell. Some folks say it must be nice living in town and of course we say, "you've got that right!" We actually can see the mountains from our living room and front porch. It's the best of both worlds in our opinion.
Most days have started in the 40's, but with abundant sunshine the temperature is very comfortable. Because we have both front and back screen doors, we can leave them open during the afternoon. Truthfully, it is glorious!
As most of you know, Grayson, Bruce's little brother, has moved to Franklin, leaving a free day for us on Tuesday so we made the most of it and drove out to Fields of the Wood, described in this link as a Biblical theme park. The property is large and there is a drive behind the hill with the Ten Commandments on it, providing a beautiful view of the area.
The drive there was lovely with colorful trees lining the road.
While out that way, we drove to Hiwassee Dam, a place we visited in our first months here. You may recall we checked all of the local dams out during those early days.
There is a beautiful ramp allowing boaters access to that part of the river.
Somehow I've made time for a few walks along the river in town .
Along with our neighborhood which is awash in color!
Daniel and Chastity's house,
And Sandy's tree keeps glowing in the light,
and dropping leaves like mad.
I love my Keds. I recently read an article about the first woman to solo hike the entire Appalachian Trail while wearing Keds. Amazing!
Big tree=loads of leaves.
This is a wonderful time of the year here in Western North Carolina and it's a good thing because it won't be long until it is cold and the days are exceptionally short, and some might say not so much fun, especially in January and February. But we are not going to worry about that now, we just live each day with great expectations and joy.
Our town merchants do a good job of decorating and making things interesting for the flood of tourists who come to view the glorious spectacle of Autumn.
Fairies live here in front of Fairy Cross or so says the sign. What will Jenn think of next? I would show you more but then you would never be rid of me!
your friend,
Gail
