Yesterday was supposed to be rainy but instead it turned into a fairly nice day so I decided to take a walk at Long Pond Ironworks. Like I've said before, the color this year is very blah and not nearly as vibrant as it usually is. I'm not sure what the problem is because this summer was pretty normal with no real rainy or dry spots. I was also interested to see if the burning bushes were turning yet. So were, some weren't. There are so many of them along this trail that it can be quite spectacular. Seventy percent of them were still green. Huh.

I did come across a family of swans. When I first saw them they were on the other side of the lake from me, but eventually glided closer.

They were not bothered by my crashing around in the brush on shore. I could hear them "talking" to each other in low murmurs. I can't describe the sound they were making, kind of like a refined cluck.

The youngsters were curious though. At one point I was focusing through rushes, hence the soft effect in this photo.

Those are some fine photos of the swans.  I especially love the juveniles, so cute! It’s amazing they let you get that close.

Our leaves look about as changed as yours and there was frost on my windshield this AM!  Finally, we are really chilly down here.

I like the “soft effect” of focusing through the reeds. Those burning bushes are always so amazing in the fall. You’ll have to go back in a week or two and see how they’re getting on!

Thanks, sis. I like the juveniles too with their still-brown feathers. Glad you are getting the chill finally.

Steve, yeah, it worked as I was hoping it would. I’m just afraid the burning bushes are not going to be like they usually are. Fingers crossed—I will return!