Some of the most beloved events here in the Blue Ridge Mountains are the sunsets. And this year the sunsets have been phenomenal.
The range of colors runs the gamut of the light spectrum, from reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows, to blues, indigos, and violets. In this season of late summer, we include the foliage, which is predominantly green colored leaves, with tiny bits of yellow colored leaves beginning to make an appearance on the locust and poplar trees.
So the sunsets here in Western North Carolina, against the backdrop of the Nantahala Forest, is a “ROYGBIV” color palette, in artists’ terms.
It is an excellent time to enjoy sipping cool, clear spring water with lemon slices, and eating fresh vegetables and fruits from our local farmers and orchards. And freshly baked apple fritters.
The first maps of the Fall foliage for the Blue Ridge Mountains have just appeared online. In a month from now, the “leaf peepers” will be touring these ridges and valleys and the Blue Ridge Parkway in awe of Mother Nature’s annual autumn show.
Having spent time in Ireland, England, and Scotland, I can appreciate how our English, Irish and Scottish ancestors felt a sense of the familiar moving to this new home with a topography that mirrors the old country. I thank our ancestors for all their unique culinary and musical gifts.
Wherever you are based, and wherever you may roam, the Blue Ridge Mountains are open for all to enjoy, in every season.
Featured image, “Archangel Chamuel’s Rose Pink Sunset”, fine art photograph by Teri Leigh Teed, part of her “Healing Spirit Art©” portfolio