October has not been kind to New Jersey for the past two years, particularly around Halloween. In 2011 we had Snowtober and last year we had Superstorm Sandy. This year is calm and peaceful with no such storms in sight. It’s probably because we now have a generator wired into the house!

The trees are slightly past their peak and looking rusty-colored with burnt oranges and yellows, but somehow they are prettier now than they were. They daytime temperatures are cool enough for a light jacket. We’ve not had any rain in a long time but should get some toward the end of the week.

I’ve been taking walks around Long Pond Ironworks, checking on the progress of the burning bushes. They are making progress but still not at their peak.

I usually have the path to myself. Right now it’s covered in leaves which smell so good and earthy when you step on them. They crinkle and crunch as I scuff my way through them.

It’s an easy walk with things of interest along the way, either in the several bird viewing outlooks or the buildings.

I love the strong shadows at this time of year.

It has different things to offer than Skylands does, and it’s much closer—just down the road from our house. It makes the perfect little quick getaway for me (and my camera).

Absolutely loving all your photos!!!

Lynne, have you ever been up to Pacem en Terris in Warwick??  If not, I think you and your camera would enjoy.

Helene, thanks! Are you back to blogging again?

Maggie, I’ve never heard of that place. A sculpture garden? Looks like it’s only open in summer and early fall. I’ll have to check it out next year.

Whoa….is that swan being aggressive with the youngster swans? (or teaching a lesson?) I can’t believe you captured that. What a great shot….one to submit to your local paper again???  Nice tree shadows, too!

Sis, nah, all the swans were sleeping with their necks over their backs when I first encountered them. This male was busy preening his feathers. I held the camera on him waiting for him to just be still and then he rose up and stretched his wings. Glad you liked it! Maybe I will submit it ....

You’ve got some good color!  The burning bushes around here are pretty much in full “bloom”, but then we’re further north than you are.  I like the picture of the geese with the reflection of the yellow leaves in the pond.

C, yeah,  little bit but nothing like the color we usually have. Glad you liked the geese photo! The reflections were awesome and the geese just happened to swim through it. I did wait for it though .

Looking very autumnal! I miss New Jersey when I see photos like this. I especially love that last one with the tree shadow. I was just remarking to Dave that it’s nice when the trees lose their leaves and those spidery shadows emerge once again.

Steve, I know—it’s a pretty place, isn’t it? Of course you would like the tree shadow pic. After all you are Shadow Steve.