It’s time again for the annual unmasking at the Masquerade Ball, when all the trees get together and reveal their true selves.  All year long they blend together in complacent, side-by-side green homogeneity. Now yellow stands next to red, who stands next to orange. Who knew?

Last year the ball was lavishly attended and everyone had their very best gowns on. This year something seems to have gone amiss. Invitations that were borne only on the wind must have been lost or misdirected because attendance has been spotty.

Some came too early to the party,

while others arrived late.

Some have yet to arrive.

Even the ones who arrived on time seem to be clad in subdued tones of shabby chic. Mother Nature was prudent and somewhat stingy with her favors this year, leaving the trees spent with not much left for their Fall clothing allowance.

There were a few thrifty souls who spent their clothing allowance more wisely.

The masquerade ball isn’t over quite yet. It’s just taking a little longer this year to get the guests to participate. I think they’re each trying to hold out as long as they can, hoping to be the belle of the ball.

Wow, these are beautiful! Thanks for the pics - fall in DC is not nearly as colorful as usual, because of the drought, but I can gaze into your pictures and get that same beautiful melancholy feeling of autumn that I usually get from walking around here. Thank you!!!

And HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

Lynn~  I DO keep up with your blog…...I just enjoy it so much.  But today’s masquerade party was THE best.  Great pictures and story line.  A+ for you!

P.S.  I am Kim’s friend who used to live in West Milford.

:o)

gorgeously beautiful pictures.

i’d love to come walking with you.

What a delightful way to look at it! Your colors are lovely.  Ours are pretty spotty this year…