Serenity

During the early morning of Halloween, I drove up to the Mogollon Rim to find fall color. Shortly after sunrise I began my hike at the Horton Creek Trailhead, enjoying the very cool temperature and fresh air. It was exciting to see some color along the trail!

But then the trail started moving away from the creek, and although it was nice to relax amongst the pine trees, I was hoping for more creek action. So I hopped off the trail and forged my way down to the water.

The running water, sparkling waterfalls, and fall color rejuvenated my soul. And then I rounded a corner and saw a brilliantly glowing tree, vividly contrasted by the pine trees framing its beauty.

It was one of those moments when the grandeur of nature just knocks you off your feet. I sat on a huge boulder and soaked in the serenity of the majestic sight before my eyes. It was hard to tear myself away from the glowing phenomenon. After a while, I forced myself to get up to explore more of the creek. It was not disappointing. There were so many waterfalls to capture!

The further I moved up the creek, the fall leaves became more dominant in the landscape. I had such a hard time not wanting to stop to capture yet another bright display of autumn’s beauty.

Walking back to the trailhead, I felt the most incredible sense of joy. Tapping into the peacefulness of this oasis of serenity calmed my soul.