Finally getting around to sharing photos from the hike I took back in mid October. 

Most of these views were found after hiking a short trail that was right off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. The place is called Black Balsam Knob. I went with my school's Photo Club. The way we went was a pretty short hike, which was perfect for us because we could run around off the trail and take pictures when needed without falling too far behind. The mini hike was also perfectly timed because we went in the afternoon and got back to the cars in time to snap a few photos of the sunset on the way home. As a non-hiker, I really enjoyed it and can't wait to go back once it warms up again.

lake eden arts festival.

I didn't have a chance to get any actual decent pictures from LEAF, but here are a few snapshots from walking around. The festival was gorgeous and a lot of fun and completely unlike anything else. The festival was a perfect reflection of Asheville: good food, friendly people, gorgeous sites, and unique art. I'd love to go again next year and maybe get a campsite for the whole weekend with some friends.

Some of my favorite vendors from the festival were:

The Cap Man - I walked back and forth in front of his cap-covered automobile countless times. I couldn't stop staring. After seeing the film Automorphosis at one of the art walks last year, I was beyond ecstatic to see one in person. I wish I could've had a conversation with the man himself, but I was supposed to be working so I felt that it was best that I didn't. I'm regretting it now, but hopefully I will see the Cap Man around again.

Photography 1851 - Authentic tintype photography. Authentic. Tintype. Photography. I almost squealed. I remember learning about these way back in Photography class in middle school. There is nothing like the images this process produces. They are hauntingly beautiful. I'd love to have a portrait made for my wedding someday.

Metamorphosis Metals - Gorgeous handmade jewelry. Simple and rustic. Totally my taste. Someone drop hints to my boyfriend. My birthday is November 24th.

Homegrown - A local food restaurant in Asheville. I've never been to the restaurant itself yet, but I had some of their food at the festival and it was so delicious. I'll definitely be stopping into their restaurant(which is just down the street from campus!) whenever I get the chance.

beneath the maple tree.

The maple trees in the quad have been turning and falling, and it is such a sight to see every day. It definitely makes walking to class a bit less dreadful.

Tomorrow, I will be attending the Lake Eden Arts Festival as a guest. I am beyond excited. I'm also feeling a  little nervous because I don't know what to expect, but I've been told so many good things about the festival that I'm trying not to worry too much. I'll be taking my camera, so hopefully I'll have time in between working to take photos. The location is supposedly gorgeous this time of year.

I'm also nervous because I've been really sick all week. I've had a terrible cold and it's just gotten worse. I went to the health center and the nurse told me the same things anyone will tell you about how to get rid of a cold: drink a lot of water and hot tea and get as much sleep as possible. So that's what I'll continue to do, and hopefully I'll feel well enough to enjoy the festival tomorrow.

an autumn adventure.

We decided to participate in our first Campus Rec activity: Crafts on Craggy. It was free. We made journals and ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. We hiked a bit and got some fresh mountain air in our lungs. It was a bit chilly, but the sun was warm. The group of 12 girls who went were all really nice and friendly. We played a couple of games. I laid in the sun and sat still for a much needed moment. It was something different than what I'm used to and I'm glad I decided to do it.