We all have an idea in our minds...or perhaps we've actually visited there.....a place called "Serenity".

It's that place we escape to when we don't want to deal with the "real" life around us.

It's that place where we can shut out the voices.

Our hideaway.  Safely tucked away in a spot that no one else can get to .

We all need a break.  Even Jesus escaped the multitudes so He could have some "alone" time.

It's funny how we all have such special indulgences (safe places) in this big world.

In reality....there is rarely such a place to be found.   Often times someone else already knows about it....and possibly claims as their own indulgence.

Interestingly enough, I find myself becoming curious of other folks in their "hideaway" modes.  Until recently, it never really crossed my mind that I may be trespassing upon their much needed solitude in my approach to capture a shot of something...such as the photo below.

I'm usually the one becoming overly protective of my "safety bubble" when I feel like someone else is crossing over my fence into my zone of serenity.

It was nearly quiet.  

I say "nearly" because the distance honk of canadian geese were gently floating amongst the fog/mist that softly sat upon the river at the edge of the trees.

We had descended down the embankment to the edge of the water.  

I looked around for a decent shot without any obstructions and this gentleman had claimed his location before we arrived on the scene.....so, nevertheless, I decided to include him in one of my photos.

He added to the story and gave a sense of balance.

He wasn't there much longer, so, when he left, we moved up to claim his spot.

It was hard not to stay here for longer than an hour.  With every moment, the trees lit up and the geese kept honking.

The array of colors on this 28 degree morning was beyond what I had hoped for at this location.

I have always dreamed of photographing fall foliage against the mountains.....and this dream had come true for me.

I've been told before that if you are willing to wait long enough, dreams really do come true.   However, you must make the proper preparations for them to happen.

I felt like photographing every Aspen, Birch and Cottonwood in this gorgeous area.

(In fact, I almost did.)  

I turned around to see what was behind me and the fog softly floated along the banks and fish were jumping out of the water to greet the sunshine.

It was going to be a great day!

The remainder of the day went just as well. 

We photographed alllllll the aspens/birches in the park.    

Well......not really.  

But, all of that gold just makes a person feel all warm and fuzzy inside.   Can't help but smile.  

It's kind of like being in a treasure box.  Among gold coins.

And then the leaves "whisper" when the wind blows.  Sometimes, they "sing" or "clap their hands".  

Yep, it's mountain music.   My kind of music.   Inspiration at its best.

I'll bring you some more "mountain music" next time.     Until then.......

Happy trails to you.

Over and out.

Mrs. Rogers