There is no mistake Fall has indeed arrived. Signs are everywhere. Even though the temperatures continue to remain in the 80's there is no denying it. One of those signs is persimmons hanging heavy in their branches just waiting for that first frost that will help push them to turn bright harvest orange and drop to the ground providing some of the best, sweet fruit that can be found in the south this time of year. 

I have always been drawn to wild flowers more than domesticated hot house flowers. Wild Hydrangeas that grow profusely in this area are a great favorite. Another undeniable sign of fall comes from these gorgeous graceful plants. Even when the blooms have withered in preparation for winter's rest, they are still glorious in their lacy brown attire. 

There is something to be said for being an early riser. Especially when I look out the doors to our deck and see glorious colors like these in the predawn sky. Times like this make me thankful for the opportunity to capture even a tiny part of of all the beauty in the world with my camera to share with others.

Beauty can be found in the most unusual places and circumstances if time is taken to look closely at the world we live in. We have had record drought here in the deep south for several months. With our busy lives I have not thought to check on the miniature rose shrub on our fully exposed second story deck.....until this week. The drought took its toll on the poor shrub reducing it to nothing but dried brittleness. Yet the blooms were still hanging on as strongly as ever, dried in their perfectness as if intentionally by a florist or herbalist. Even in death the little shrub shares its beauty. This portrait of a vintage rose will be printed and placed on a wall in our home as a reminder of the beauty found in the fast paced world we live in.