Dawn Across Limekiln Lake

Gazing at this incredible image awakened the storyteller in me. I immediately knew I had to feature it in today’s post. It felt like a curtain was about to go up on the camera inside my head, revealing the chromatic kaleidoscope of colors that awaited my imagination and those who would explore this mysterious utopia when they were surrounded by the light of day. In an instant, I had a foothold in the connection to the uncanny past of the  Adirondacks. This vast ancient sprawl is where one can find fresh air, stunning views, and dense forests while paddling across serene lakes, or discovering hidden waterfalls. The haunting calls of loons echo across the waters as though they are messages from the spirit world, while you let your consciousness take you where the mountains still live and the conifers still appease. Images that fill your head only to be recalled by the whim of the mysterious voice calling out to you from the distant north.   

There you will find trails that crisscross and lead to stunning vistas and secluded spots, while some of the less traveled hold untold secrets of their own. Overlooked trails will lead the seeker of truth to serene ponds surrounded by dense forest where the quiet feels almost unworldly. Further out rugged trails will take you through dramatic gorges where legend has it that ancient spirits still walk the trails and challenging terrain give you startling views of hidden gems nestled between towering cliffs. 

I stand amazed at nature’s playground of hide and seek and truth and dare. May God help me to read between the lines of his masterful creation. I bow my head to his graciousness, while I kneel at the foot of his consent. I am a timid dreamer of all things, especially the call from Autumn leaves. Yet the leaves speak to me in color, smell, and golden flames that break the silence of most closed eyes. Their copper and crimson leaves lie on the ground in quiet desperation. Some stay until the last blessed moments remain on a tree in the snow. Yes, those mountains leave us captured within a lover’s heart longing to return another day, another season.

I would like to express my gratitude to Joan Nolan for allowing me to present such a profound image and the unfeigned words that inspired me.

The hardest mountains to climb are those that live within. The mountains are calling and I must go.  

Blessings dear friends,