November Weather Begins

This weekend seemed the coldest yet. There was frost icing trees and grass until the sun had been up for several hours on Saturday. I spent the majority of the morning indoors and then spent just an hours or so at Colonial Park in Franklin Township, NJ. This November seems consistent with previous seasons - the leaves are past their prime, and may trees are completely denuded.

A few low shrubs still glow with color above the deep carpet of leaves.

Soon the trails in some areas will disappear for the season beneath a carpet of leaves.

Although midday, the trees stand out against the gray sky as they do at dawn or dusk. A last few shots and I retreated home to have soup for lunch.

On Sunday, Aengus and I braved a still colder day at Sourland Mountain for about 15 minutes sometime in the morning (with the time change, I have lost all sense of time).

The sun was out with that particular intensity that comes with miles visibility during a high pressure front.

A sizable flock of Canadian Geese (Branta canadensis) enjoyed the pond across a field from the parking lot.

While we saw several birdwatchers, hikers, and folks walking their dogs, the wind and air temperature was likely downwards of 40 degrees. I spent the day making just short trips outdoors, reluctant to put on my heavy winter gear just yet. Next week however I will make the effort necessary to enjoy the scenery despite the season's lower temperatures. Have a good week - stay warm!