This past weekend we took advantage of our cool spell (60 degrees & drizzle) to explore Linville Falls and Gorge in the mountains of Western North Carolina. I’ve heard about the Falls for many years but had not ventured there. We discovered one treasure after another ~ What a feast for the senses ~ The pine scent, the soft cool air on our faces, breathtaking vistas and a profusion of rhododendron blooms. I thought rhododendrons were reserved just for the month of June, but I learned there are 4 varieties and the ones in bloom right now are called Rosebay Rhododendron. I brought my Olympus Pen EP-2 and had a blast photographing Linville’s treasures. And here are some of my favorite images of the day ~ 
Archive: ‘Garden’
Linville Falls’ Hidden Treasures ~ A Weekend Journey
Tuesday, July 19th, 2011Asheville Blooms ~ A Weekend Journey
Tuesday, May 17th, 2011It’s always a treat to visit Asheville, NC. Each season gives us something to enjoy and this spring was no exception. Colorful blooms, crisp mountain air, delicious food and beautiful art ~ a feast for the senses, a retreat if you will. Each time we visit we discover a new treasure off the beaten path. One of my favorite places to visit in Asheville is the North Carolina Arboretum. A picturesque spot ~ it has lovely gardens, walking paths, hiking trails, an art gallery and very relaxing rocking chairs. I brought my Olympus Pen-EPL-2 my new favorite walking around camera and had a great time capturing the colors, shapes and light I encountered. Here are some of my favorite impressions from our journey to Asheville: (Scroll to the bottom for some fun Asheville travel tips! )
Weekend Journey Trip Tips :
- Check out Asheville Cottages for unique private luxurious accomodations a hop, skip & jump from Central Asheville – I highly recommend staying here!
- For a fun lunch place in Biltmore Village, check out Gianni Panini – specializing in Panini (of course!) espresso drinks and gelato. My favorite was the Portobello Mushroom/Arugula & Herbed goat Cheese panini with Almond flavored Iced Tea!
- For a downtown lunch, head over to Tupelo Honey Cafe. My favorite seat was at the bar so I could see the cooks work together as a team, as they put together some of the most delectable New South Cusine dishes ever.
- For a very special dinner check out this gem: The Admiral and that’s all I’ll divulge. According to one friend, it’s the best food she’s eaten in her whole life. need I say more?
- Favorite Art Galleries ~ Blue Spiral, American Folk Art & Framing, and the Haen Gallery sit in a neat row on Biltmore Avenue, making it easy to pop in and out of each gallery. Click here for a listing of downtown galleries
Summertime Garden Session
Friday, September 3rd, 2010I had such a great time photographing these beautiful sisters and their parents in their lush garden. We chose the late afternoon for the soft flattering warm light that is so nice for family portraits. We had a lot of fun together ~ here a few of my favorite images from their family photo session ~
A Beautiful Family in a Springtime Garden
Wednesday, June 2nd, 2010I had so much fun photographing this lovely extended family. Grandparents were visiting for the weekend and Mom & Dad have been wanting to photograph the whole family together for quite a while. They wore spring flower colors – the hues of hydrangeas – and together it all looked so brilliant against the backdrop of the garden. We photographed in the late afternoon – my favorite time – because the sun is muted, soft and flattering for portraits. And here are some sneak peeks from our wonderful afternoon photo session ~
Iris & Lily Cards ~ Perfect Gifts
Tuesday, May 25th, 2010Ask and you shall receive ~ When I recently posted images of spring flowers, several readers asked if I would make them into cards ~ Well, guess what!? I did – and they are beautiful: 5.5″ x 4″ folded blank cards in a lustre finish ~ perfect cards to express thank you, get well, condolence, congratulations, birthday, graduation or a whole host of other greetings. They would also make great teachers’ gifts.
The card collections come with eight cards and matching parchment paper envelopes. Cost is $20 shipped to a US address. NC residents will need to add 8.25% State Sales tax. Please click here to place your order. I am now offering two designs ~ Iris and Lily. If you can’t choose between the two, you may order both designs in one box with 4 cards of each design.
Delightful Family Photo Session
Friday, May 14th, 2010I thoroughly enjoyed working with this beautiful family ~ And what better day to photograph than on Mother’s Day! I had a blast ~ the weather was picture perfect, the girls were sweet and their baby brother was adorable. We photographed in their garden in the late afternoon, so the children could play and be comfortable and the light is optimal late in the day. Everyone had a great Mother’s Day ~ and here are some sneak peeks from our photo session ~
Spring Beauty ~ St. Johns Garden
Wednesday, May 12th, 2010One of my favorite places in Charlotte is the garden at our church, St. Johns Episcopal Church. It is peaceful, beautiful, contemplative and gives me a sense of hope and renewal every time I visit. Each time I go, I see something new. I’ve been bringing my camera to the garden this spring – and wanted to share its beauty with you. Here are some of my favorite spring beauties ~
