Spring in the Swannanoa Valley

After many years in the far south in Texas and Florida, watching the Appalachians burst into spring for the first time has been a daily miracle and blessing. I live near the Swannanoa River, just outside of Asheville, NC. These are some of my favorite places close to home.

"Nature does not teach the glory of God; it need not teach this as nature itself is the glory of God." - Inayat Khan

Lake Owen, Swannanoa, one of my favorite places to walk

Lake Owen, Swannanoa, one of my favorite places to walk

Backyard rhododendron

Backyard rhododendron

Swannanoa River, Warren Wilson River Trail

Swannanoa River, Warren Wilson River Trail

Swannanoa River

Swannanoa River

Eastern Tent Caterpillar - in my yard by the millions! will become a chunky small brown moth

Eastern Tent Caterpillar - in my yard by the millions! will become a chunky small brown moth

Foxglove, NC Arboretum

Foxglove, NC Arboretum

First leaves

First leaves

Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa

Warren Wilson Rd, Swannanoa

Dianthus, NC Arboretum

Dianthus, NC Arboretum

Ruins Trail, Swannanoa

Ruins Trail, Swannanoa