We're all a little Nutty

Our first stop in Arches National Park was at a tower called "Bullwinkle." After driving 4 hours, we had to satiate Lee. It looks much taller from a distance. After Lee, Dillon climbed all the way to the top, too. Then, I climbed. I made it over the lower overhang and 1/4 of the way up the crack before vertigo made me decide I'd had enough. At least I tried. Did I mention it looks much taller from a distance? My favorite part of Arches this time was a hike we took to Broken Arch. As we came around the corner, with the arch in sight for the first time, the late afternoon sun was so beautiful shining through from behind it. We hiked almost the entire hike in solitude -- very different from the crowds at Delicate Arch. We posed for a family picture under the arch, as shown here: My other favorite part was the Sand Dune Arch. The arch itself wasn't that spectacular, but the powder fine sand all the way there was so fun. Since Lee and the kids were rappelling, L...

Some of the colors are more spectacular now, but still this picture captures the beauty of autumn. I love the colors as they turn and brightly transform my yard and neighborhood. This is my "baby" Autumn Blaze Maple, next to my Autumn Purple Ash, with the neighbors "hot lava" creeping down the hill behind. Yes, it means winter is on its way, but right now I'll enjoy the blazing colors and crisp apples and cooler weather and crunchy leaves.