More Smoky Beauty!

Fall in love with the beauty!

Wow! I had to share these beautiful days in the Smoky Mountain National Park with you.  We have been home for almost a week and I still find myself sitting in front of the computer enjoying the beautiful layering of natural beauty in this park. We thanked God for the blessings and sat quietly some days meditating on the peace and tranquility of the water flowing over the rocks and the leaves glistening in the sun. There were so many opportunities to view different fall foliage as well as deer and black bear. We found the people of this area to be very friendly. We met a man named Steve on the Foothills Parkway early one morning. He had come to photograph the early lifting of the fog on the mountains. Steve was kind enough to offer directions for the less traveled roads for us and our jeep. He also provided us with the name and directions to a wonderful restaurant close to our campground. If you have never visited this park, go if you get the opportunity. I have been many times in my life and have enjoyed each visit. Blessings!

Hornets Nest

This Black Bear made climbing this tall tree seem easy.

Dickcissel

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My first close view of a Dickcissel.  His browns and black markings with the yellow were outstanding.      He is one of our summer residents. I did not realize this fact.  These birds are most often seen in flocks over grassy prairies.  They eat grains seeds and insects. He must have been needing a drink of water or a bath when he stopped by our woods. I sat down today and counted the birds that have visited or stay in our yard in past week or two.  The number was 29.  I am amazed and a very happy "Birder".  Blessings!

Blue-headed Vireo

 Yesterday afternoon I was excited to photograph the Blue-headed Vireo.  He visited our "little woods" and took a dip in our bath.  Such a beautiful little guy.  The White-eyed visits frequently and I have also enjoyed the Red-eyed Vireo on occasion.  The Blue-eyed is so striking in appearance. He will stay in our area for the winter.  I find it to be very interesting how all the small birds try to come to bathe or drink at the same time.  We usually see them around 3:30 to 4:30 each afternoon. The mornings around 9:30 a.m. are busy as well. Our fall migration has been slower paced than the spring migration although just as wonderful! Blessings!