Falling in love with Fall

I know I've touched on how incredible the Autumn season is here in Alaska. Just touching on it however just doesn't do it justice. Even these photos don't do it justice! I don't think anything could aside from seeing it in person. It's so breathtakingly beautiful you just have to see it.

If you're a frequent reader, and I hope you are, you are no stranger to my love for Alaska. To my core, I love this state. However, if I'm being honest, there are times, for various reasons, when I feel like maybe I need to explore other options. Its in those moments that I think Alaska knows I'm having my doubts and shows me just another reason that I am home, plain and simple.

This blog has been a wonderful exercise for my heart because I am having a blast going on picture taking adventures, having some place to share them, and also having somewhere to go and read in my own words about all the ways Alaska has me hooked.

Last night after work before the sun went down, I took off by myself out the Richardson highway to a spot my boyfriend had found while hunting the day prior. Just past the 46 mile marker is an entrance to a portion of the old highway that is still accessible for about 3 miles. What a treat! As I headed down, I was literally driving under a canopy of orange and gold.

It was so stunningly gorgeous and not only was it gorgeous but it was almost completely silent. All I heard was the quiet rustle of leaves and the rush of the river that runs along the portion of road. My visit to the historic highway was just was my soul was craving.

I drove as far I possibly could without destroying the sides of my truck taking in every drop of color surrounding me.

I spotted this little waterfall up in the hill side among the trees. Isn't it cute?

Just getting these photos was an adventure in itself! First, I had to jump across a creek which I did without too much trouble only to slip on a rock closer to the top of the waterfall and soak my right foot. Ok fine. I live in Alaska, we have a lot of water, sometimes we get wet. No big deal. Well, no big deal unless you go through all that only to find that the wrong lens is on your camera. Back down the rocks, back across the creek to my truck for the correct lens and by the time I was finished photographing the waterfall, both feet were soaked inside my Converse tennis shoes. Next time, I'll pack my XtraTuf boots!

Now, after I had driven as far as I could down the old highway, I turned around to head back to the main road and spotted a trail I was able to drive my truck down onto the bank of the river. Wow!

Since it was close to dusk the colors on the trees that lined the riverbanks were all but popping out at me and I was in awe. I kinda wished that I had brought some firewood and a tent. I could have stayed in that place all night. There's just some views you can't get enough of and that was one of them.

I had kids at home so I pulled myself away and headed back.

Can I just say, I love my truck and all the places it takes me without too much complaint! =)

The drive back home along the Richardson isn't anything to miss either, it's pretty fantastic.

Winter is just around the corner! There's already evidence adorning the tops of the mountains and I really can't wait. I love the Winter. Yes its cold but Alaska is absolutely stunning covered in snow.

That snow is creeping down and will soon soon swallow up the orange, red, yellow, and pink so while I can I am taking in every scene I'm able to and I'm so happy to get to share them and I thank you for reading!

I needed to see what I got to see last night. My soul needed it. Driving home I felt completely refreshed and at peace with where I've made my home. Once again, thank you Alaska. You addict me over and over.