Perfect Fall Day

What a perfect Fall day in Tunnel Hill! The battlefield is dressed in its fancy Autumn finery.

Coahulla Creek at Prater's Mill

Prater's Mill, near Varnell, is located on Coahulla Creek in NW Georgia. Each year in October, the "Prater's Mill Country Fair" draws vendors from all over the Southeast. Soapmakers, basketweavers, artisans, quilters - everyone finds something to delight that inner child. See the website for further information at http://www.pratersmill.org/.

historic Varnell House

While scouting painting venues for our artists, we have found many historical sites. The Varnell House is located in NW Georgia, near Varnell. Apparently it saw some action during the Civil War.

Hamilton House in Dalton GA

The historic Hamilton House sits between a busy side street and a railroad spur in Dalton, GA. Between rumbling trains and passing commuters, it sits in the quiet elegance of long ago. The house and grounds are kept by the Whitfield-Murray Historical Society.

at Barnsley Gardens

...looking at the fountain in the formal gardens from inside Barnsley Garden ruins..

Resaca Confederate Cemetery

A quiet remembrance of Confererate soldiers who fell during the Battle of Resaca can be found just off Highway 41 near Resaca, GA.

learning to fly

Recently Sandra and I visited the Confederate cemetery in Resaca, GA. Just before leaving, we noticed something fluttering near the surrounding stone wall. There we found a fledgling trying his wings for the first time. Time and time again he bravely fluttered against the stones, trying to fly over the small wall. Time and time he fell to the ground. He rested for a bit on Sandra's shoe. As we were leaving, he was gripping the stones with his tiny feet as his wings beat furiously at the air. We're sure he made it...his parents were both on the overhanging tree limbs calling encouragement.

Bloomers in Tunnel Hill

These beautiful pear trees line the street leading beside the Tunnel Hill Heritage Center. In the distance you can see the covered bridge and further on is Chetoogeta Mountain. The historic railroad tunnel isn't visible, although it's to the right beyond the bridge. This photo was taken in mid-March. The white blossoms are gone now - lots of rain and wind - but the other trees are 'furry' with their Spring buds. Come visit us in Tunnel Hill.

same song, different verse

We've had so much rain in the past few days...the creek is over its banks in Harry Griffin Park.




It's quite a different sight than when we were there painting not too long ago.

disappearing

Old barns can be seen beside secondary highways in this North Georgia area. Most have been abandoned, left standing simply because it costs too much to tear them down. There's beauty in the rusted tin roofs, weathered timbers and simple architecture. These structures are fast disappearing, and it's sad that we don't seem to see them at all. We're in such a rush getting from Point A to Point B that we hardly notice these icons of an era inhabited by our grandparents. I sometimes imagine a barn, newly built, with its farm implements hanging on hooks, the sweet smell of hay and the scurry of mouse feet.

Butterfly Award!!

Deborah Wilson gave me this wonderful Butterfly Award because she likes my photographs. I'm honored. You can visit Deborah's blog "Corridors" at http://deborahwilson.blogspot.com/. Now I'm passing along the award to some of my favorite bloggers...I'm working on the list now.

Southern Lights

This is another version of what I call Southern Lights. There is actually an atmospheric phenomenon of southern lights (akin to the famous northern lights) in the southern hemisphere. Georgia's Southern Lights are actually the setting sun reflecting off cloud formations. This makes an awesome sight just before sundown.

one more month

It's just one more month until Winter officially sets in. The trees are still showing scattered blazes of color, but more bare limbs are due very soon. It's sad to see the land 'close up shop' for a few months. There'll be no 'new grass green' greens for awhile, and the crocus won't peek through the frosty ground until early Spring. Just a few inches of snow fall is usually all we get here in the South. Maybe I'll post some Summer photos in February.

Fort Keys foliage

On this day, November 20th, last year I painted this 8"x10" oil. Several people asked if I had "tweaked" the foliage colors. I usually reply that I don't have to exaggerate Nature's coloring...I just have to see it with an artist's eye. The accompanying photograph shows an almost identical coloring in adjacent trees this year.
Contact me for purchase at beejw@charter.net. The price is $85 including shipping.

Crawfish Springs - November 2006

Crawfish Springs in November of 2006 was a fairyland of crystal water, reflected Fall foliage and sparkling sunshine. A few days ago I drove by and saw that it is almost overrun by the aquatic plants...and the water level is scarcely visible. The extended drought has left its effects.

Fort Mountain overlook

Yesterday my friend, Gail, and I had a girls' day out. You thought we went shopping, didn't you?? Actually we did...but not at the mall. We took an hour's trip across Fort Mountain from Murray to Gilmer County, GA. We just had to stop at this overlook and marvel at the rolling mountains, the layers of clouds and the endless colors of North Georgia in Autumn. Our trip took us to Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge. It's worth a trip to Blue Ridge to see this gorgeous land. Click on the image to show detail.

gentle waters running

Except for the occasional passing car, the only sounds near the creek bank were the gurgle of gentle waters running and the rustle of Autumn leaves falling. It's as though the land is closing up shop for the season.

crossing the Mississippi

Remember how big everything was when you were a kid?? This little stream could be the Mississippi river through the eyes of a child. I sometimes slow down to remember how I perceived things when I was little. It's a version of 'thinking outside the box'.

on the morning side of the mountain

Recently while visiting Cloudland Station, I was reminiscing about Granddad's farm. I would play for endless hours on the old wagon. It was my pirate ship, my island, my playhouse...my special place. In my child's mind, it would always be there...but it was gone all too quickly. Now whenever I see an old farm wagon, I am transported back to those carefree days.

Did you bring your fishin' pole??

This brought back memories of fishing with my Dad when I was a little girl. We'd sit for hours with our lines in the water. When he wasn't looking I'd lift mine out of the water and inspect the dead worm...wondering why any fish would want that for lunch. I didn't catch many fish, but I did catch memories.

reflections of Fall

Hearing the babble of running water is always soothing to the soul. Sitting beside a stream, one can reflect upon the day's journey, the path chosen and the future unknown.

Mountain Cove barn

I know in photography as well as painting composition, the focal point should not be centered in the frame/canvas. However, this barn sitting on a hill's crest held such a commanding presence, I couldn't help putting it there. This is one of many barns located at Mountain Cove Farm in Walker County, GA. With the sky's bold blue canopy and surrounding Fall foliage, the barn appeared to glow in the late morning sunlight.

Mountain Cove Farm

Yesterday Sandra and I drove to Mountain Cove Farm located in Walker County, Georgia. It is over 1800 acres of beautiful farmland held by the county and State in their land preservation program. The Fall foliage was a wonder to see! The mountains were shrouded in a pale lavender mist early, but the striking colors became bolder as the day passed. We painted for several hours, then had a picnic under a tree. What a way to spend a glorious Autumn day!

view from the tree house

Of course you can't resist climbing into a tree house...no matter what your age. This view presented as I climbed onto the balcony of the Cloudland Station tree house. The child inside me shouted, "Look at me!!"

tree house at Cloudland Station

There's a fantasy land at Cloudland Station, just south of Flintstone, GA. A group of investors started this planned community on a 420 acre tract of land located "on the morning side of (Lookout) the mountain". This photo shows the tree house located beside a small creek. My camera took about 60 photos of the beautiful landscape, so you'll be seeing more here. If you'd like to visit the Firefly Communities website for more information, you can find it at http://www.fireflycommunities.com/. Four members of the Southern Plein Air Painters group took advantage of the 70+ degree day and finished several paintings en plein air.

Happy Halloween!!

This is the photo of a small (8"x10") color study done at the "Pumpkin Glow" festival near Flintstone, GA, on October 25th. The study is for a larger painting I'll do in my art studio. I didn't have my camera (forgot it) so the closest thing I could do was this oil on panel color study.
If you'd like to see more of my artwork, it's at http://beejw.blogspot.com.

fast upon us

Cool weather came fast this year. I was wearing shorts the weekend of October 11th at the Prater's Mill Country Fair. This morning there was a heavy frost. Next week is Thanksgiving and the week after that will be Christmas. Then it's 8 months until Spring...at least that's what it feels like.

This photo is of Chickamauga Creek, winding its way through Ringgold, GA. Enjoy the Fall colors while you can...

"Fall has fell"....Grandma

My Grandma had lots of 'old timey' sayings. "Fall has fell" was one of my favorites. This photo shows the orange/red maple trees located along the Southern edge of the Tunnel Hill battlefield. A few more frosty nights and the colors will blaze even more.

primary colors

As we learn in school, the primary colors are red, yellow and blue. Theoretically all other colors can be made by mixing these three colors in varying amounts. This photo was taken as I participated in a paint-out in Gainesville, GA. This scene with its blazing blue sky, red gas meter and yellow curb reminded me of the delicious colors in an 8 pack of crayons.

water wheel

At the Georgia Mountain Fair in Hiawassi, you'll see many items of historical significance. Water wheels use flowing water to grind grains into flour and meal. Capturing nature's energy is something we need to revisit.

mountain kin folk

This cabin is part of a historical setting at the Georgia Mountain Fair in Hiawassi. In the mid 1950's, I can remember visiting some distant relatives who lived in a cabin much like this. It was somewhat larger and had a porch running completely around the house, but it was made from logs with mud and straw filling the cracks. The honest, hardworking people who lived there were loggers -- cutting and hauling timber so the rest of us had building materials for our homes. And I remember them sharing a meal with us -- meat stew and cornbread. I wonder where their families are now......

You lookin' at me???

Several months ago Sandra and I drove along Burning Bush Road outside Ringgold, GA. We parked and ventured into the pasture of a friend's farm. In setting up our easels to paint, Sandra commented that the cows would be along shortly. Sure enough, within minutes curious bovine creatures descended upon us. They came almost close enough to touch, but shied away. Sandra said that once while she was painting in her pasture, a cow wandered up and actually licked the canvas she was about to paint on.

boys and their toys

As little boys grow to manhood they become - well, just big boys. And their little toy cars become BIG toys.

first leaves of Autumn

Don't you love the first leaves of Autumn??? Everything has been so green-green all Summer. Then one morning you notice the slight chill in the air. A few days later you're walking in the back yard and a colorful flutter catches your eye. You look up and there's the first Autumn leaf. A wonderful miracle. The color has been there all the time --- just hidden by the green chlorophyll. It's like the leaves are shedding their green costumes of Summer and we're seeing their "true colors shining through".

walk across the river

This is the James River as it flows near Richmond, VA. You can literally walk across the river on the rocks at this spot.

lunch time already?

Actually I don't have any idea about how to read a sundial. This one is in Colonial Williamsburg, VA. It's so easy just to glance at my watch or Blackberry to see not only the hour and minutes - but the seconds. We have digital chronometers everywhere to give us the most accurate time available. It's hard to imagine that just several generations ago the sundial was the premier timepiece.

Colonial Williamsburg, VA

Wilson

Remember the Tom Hanks movie "Castaway"? His companion on the island was Wilson, the soccer ball. Well, I'd like to introduce you to Wilson, the scarecrow who resides in Sandra's garden. He's a quiet type, but he keeps an eye open for birds, squirrels and occasionally Ellie (the dog). It's a treat to stop by Sandra's house. She's always painting in her art studio, puttering in the garden or baking cookies. And she always invites you in with a hospitable smile - and a plate of those fresh baked cookies.

beauty is where you find it

If you wait long enough in this lifetime, a beautiful butterfly will alight on your toe. Believe it.

weeds by the wayside

Yes, they are weeds. Their colors are the same as flowers in our gardens - flowers we've bought, planted, watered, cared for. But these are free to enjoy as we pass them by on our busy way to somewhere else. Enjoy nature's garden as you go from here to there.

Chickamauga Creek

This is another view looking East on Chickamauga Creek in Ringgold, GA. This was taken last year ('07) but it won't be too long before the leaves lose their costumes of green and once again glow in their Autumn finery. I need to get away and visit there again.....

fawn morning

If you look closely just to the right of center, you'll see a mother deer and her fawn. They ate leisurely for several minutes as they made their way across the meadow. This property is the location of the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment.

out of town

I will be out of town October 2nd through October 7th. Please visit earlier posts and my art blog at http://beejw.blogspot.com. Thanks! Be back soon.

Native American dancer

This is another Native American dancer who participated in the Running Water pow-wow in Rome, GA. I wish I could have gotten his name, tribe, and something about his regalia.

Running Water pow-wow

If you've never attended a pow-wow, you have missed an opportunity to learn much about Native American heritage. This photo shows "fancy dancers" ready to enter the arena at the Running Water pow-wow in Rome, GA. Just Google "pow-wow" and you'll be amazed at how many events are available.

more Southern lights

Late evening Southern lights are a wonderous sight. Catching them requires watching the sky just before sundown. The clouds seem to magically catch those last rays as the sun dips below the horizon. And in just a few moments - they're gone.

North Georgia red clay

North Georgia has red clay soil. This photo was taken just before sundown as the sun's rays hit the embankment behind a small company near Rocky Face, GA. I love the colorful South!

first Fall leaves

Leaves are starting to turn here in North Georgia. The first golden edged leaves are beginning to drop and there's a chill in the early morning air. It's time to trade open toed sandals for socks and sneakers, and grab a light jacket as you head out the door. Christmas is just around the bend.

getting there early

Early on Saturday morning at the Creative Arts Guild's Festival, you can see rows of vendor tents. Within 15 minutes of this photo, jewelers, potters, fiber artists, painters, sculptors, face painters - dozens and dozens of artisans busily set up shop for the day. This same scene will be played out over and over again this Fall at the countless art fairs and festivals sprinkled across the South. Ya'll come by to see us, OK?

cool, long shadows

As early Fall brings a chill, long morning shadows seem to linger just a bit longer.

painted Southern sky

Words can't express the beauty of this Summer Southern sky. Enjoy.

such a lovely day

It was such a lovely day that we just had to paint it......

holding hands

These trees, located on the banks of the James River in Virginia, appear to be holding hands. I don't know what type of tree they are, but the root system is fascinating.

R. E. Powell

This is a home-made, hand-carved tombstone located in Tunnel Hill, GA. It reads "R. E. Powell, Die 1893". One can only wonder 'who was R. E. Powell?' What was the date of birth? What was the cause of death? What did R. E. Powell do in life? Was there a spouse? Children? A mystery indeed.

the art critic

This is Bunch, the art critic cat. She's a bunch of fur, a bunch of colors, a bunch of noise - and a bunch of trouble. She's my buddy when I'm working in my art studio, always inquisitive and asking "Wh-oh-oh-wow??" She thinks she's a little four-legged person in a fur suit.

Southern hospitality

We Southern ladies know how to throw a bash! This was the refreshment table at the Tunnel Hill Heritage Center's "Echoes of Our Past" artists' reception. There was cool white punch, almond cookies, banana nut loaves, white grapes, nacho chips, ginger snaps, sugar cookies - just to name a few goodies. And they were all hand-made by artist Sandra Babb, who also furnished the table decorations including flowers from her garden. Historical Foundation members, the featured artists and Civil War reenactors stopped in for a snack.

just off the main road

Just off the heavily traveled secondary highways you'll find adventures down gravel roads. There may be fields of hay drying in the sun, small creeks waiting for fishermen, or trails through the woods beckoning the hiker.

morning jewels

I spied these dew covered spider webs under a bench at the Tunnel Hill Heritage Center. There's an old adage about counting spider webs at a certain time of the year and it's supposed to tell how many snows you'll get. I don't remember all the details, but whenever I see a spider web sparkling in the morning sun, I always remember my Grandma's stories.

formerly the Cisco, GA, post office

Yes, that's right. The very small building pictured was once - not too long ago - the Cisco, GA, post office. It was moved to make way for the newer structure which is a modular building. It's about twice as large as this old building, but it's still quite small. You'll find all sorts of interesting things when you venture off the main highways.

old general store

This old general store sits at the corner of the Tunnel Hill battlefield. It was built in the early 1920's but now houses items of interest from the past. During the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" the Historical Foundation uses it as a base of operations and welcomes visitors to inspect its quaint personality. While painting there last June, both Sandra and I heard the long disconnected pay phone ring three times. Honest. Ghost.

dueling

This was an impromptu jam session at the "Echoes of Our Past" art exhibit at the Tunnel Hill Heritage Center recently. Deborah had brought her fiddle to play some Civil Way and patriotic tunes during the informal event. The bearded gentleman was driving by on his way to the battlefield. But upon hearing the fiddle music he immediately parked, grabbed his banjo case and hurried to join in. What a delight!

peacock bedspread

Dalton, GA, is known as the Carpet Capital of the World. But it didn't start with carpet. It started with hand-tufted bedspreads. They could be seen on clotheslines in front of small 'mom and pop' businesses along Peacock Alley - the section of Highway 41 running from north of Chattanooga, TN, to Atlanta, GA. The bedspread in the photo is an original handtufted item offered by raffle donations to the Tunnel Hill Historical Foundation. If anyone might be interested, contact me at beejw@charter.net and I'll put you in touch with the appropriate person.

horse soldier

Sunday skies were beautiful blue at the Battle of Tunnel Hill. This horse soldier was walking his horse in preparation for the battle. Soldiers would water their horses before they themselves would drink. They depended upon each other for survival.

dancing at Meadowlawn

During the Civil War reenactment weekend in Tunnel Hill, there is a Saturday night ball complete with era authentic music played by bandmembers wearing period clothing. There is no sound equipment used. The ladies and gents are dressed in their finery as they dance the Virginia Reel and the Tennessee Waltz. The event begins at 7:30 pm and goes on until everyone is too exhausted to dance another step. There's root beer, apple cider and sarsaparilla for drinking. Everyone will be up early the next morning getting ready for Sunday's outdoor church service and the battle to follow.

cannons away

I was fortunate enough to catch a smoke ring from cannon fire at the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" reenactment on Saturday. You can see it just to the left of center in the clouds.

once upon a meadow

This is one scene from last years reenactment. The battle lasts for 45 minutes to an hour. Just when you think you've decided the outcome, you'll be surprised. Stop in to enjoy the living history, sip some homemade root beer, and wander among the sutlers' tents. It's a step back in time.

near the "Big House"

This building sits just outside the fence at the Clisby Austin House - the "Big House". I just returned from the battlefield and reenactors are setting up period tents getting ready for this weekend's "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment. The weather man says there's only a 20% chance of showers on Saturday. It was a gorgeous morning with a breeze and the smell of hay. Hope you can come by and see us.

early in the battle

This photo from last years reenactment shows soldiers around the headquarters. Soon mounted troops swept across the field and clashed with foot soldiers, guns firing and swords drawn.

Clisby Austin House

Union General William T. Sherman plotted the destruction of Confederate troops in his Atlanta Campaign and March to the Sea while staying in the Clisby Austin House in Tunnel Hill, GA. Just around the corner from Clisby Austin, Union soldiers who were eventually the first soldiers ever to win the Medal of Honor raced with a hijacked Southern steam engine, The General, through the Western and Atlantic Railroad tunnel.
In just a few more days, the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" reenactment will take place on this historic property. It reminds us that there was once a war fought here.

Sumner's Headquarters

I was painting Saturday at the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" property and thinking about how peaceful it is. Then there came a "clang, clang, clang" from the Southern meadow. After crossing Keys Battery I saw the noisemaker was Joe Don Holland who was staking out the reenactors' parking area. A few reenactors are already camping out and planning for the coming weekend. This photo shows the cabin used as headquarters during the battle. Off to the right you can see the Clisby Austin house. I hope you're making plans to come see the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" on September 6th and 7th.

Southern ladies

These Southern ladies - belles if you like - were enjoying a Saturday morning stroll at last year's "Battle of Tunnel Hill" reenactment. I have been told that the proper genteel Southern lady of the past wore no less than 5 petticoats - no matter what the weather. I'm glad that it's now proper to wear t-shirts and shorts in 90+ degree Summer weather.

morning conversations

This was early on Saturday morning last year at the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment. Off to the right is a line of period tents complete with sleeping essentials, cookwares and campfires. You can see the cannons ready for manning by the 'Yankee' reenactors. There's a camaraderie among all the participants, both Rebels and Yanks, because they remember that those who died in battle were ALL Americans.

directions to the "Battle of Tunnel Hill"

As promised, here are driving directions to the "Battle of Tunnel Hill" (GA) Civil War reenactment to be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 6th and 7th. Gates open at 9:00am. Admission is $5. Gates close at 4:00pm.

Coming south from Chattanooga, TN, on I-75, take exit #345 (Ringgold/Tunnel Hill). At the end of the ramp, turn right (south) onto Hwy 41. Drive 3.9 miles --- watch the speed limits, THEY MEAN IT. Turn left onto Oak Street. Stay straight for .3 mile. Event parking is on the right.

Coming north from Atlanta, GA, on I-75, take exit # 336 (Dalton/Rocky Face). At the bottom of the ramp, turn left (north) onto Hwy 41. Drive 5.0 miles. Turn right onto Oak Street. Stay straight for .3 mile. Event parking is on the right.

My art group, the Art Alliance of North Georgia, is sponsoring a paint-out during the event. It's in conjunction with the International Plein Air Painters "Worldwide Paintout". Hope you can drop in and visit.

Battle of Tunnel Hill next weekend

I will post some photos this week of last year's "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment. Next weekend, Saturday and Sunday, September 6th and 7th, will see hundreds of reenactors decend upon Tunnel Hill to participate in this annual event. The property is located just off Highway 41 in Tunnel Hill, GA. There will be a battle reenactment lasting 45 minutes to an hour. Soldiers on horseback, cannons blasting and bugles sounding -- you'll positively have goosebumps and a lump in your throat. Plan to visit this event.

mysterious barn

When I was a kid I loved to play for hours in my Granddad's barn. There among the old boards, dry hay and scurry of mouse feet it was easy to create another mysterious world in my childhood mind. Hours flew by and the only thing dragging me back was Grandma's call "Ya'll come on in to supper!"
This isn't Granddad's barn - it has been gone for many years. But every time I see an old barn, I remember the wonderful times treasured.

more Southern lights

Atmospheric conditions sometimes lend themselves to what I call "Southern Lights" - think Aurora Borealis with a Southern accent. I pays to always have a camera handy. This was taken in the Books a Million parking lot in Chattanooga, TN.

Fall arts & crafts fairs

It's almost time for Southern art fairs to begin springing up on the weekends. It's also a good time to start thinking about the Christmas season and early shopping. On most weekends, you can find an arts and crafts festival with artisans' tents spread over acres of county parks and down historical streets. This particular photo was taken in downtown Calhoun, GA, during their "More Than a Taste of Calhoun" event. That's Sandra painting en plein air (means in open air or outdoors) where she has set up her easel and is capturing on canvas what she sees. So be sure to check your local newspaper for the art fairs in your area. You can find beautiful original paintings and meet the artists in person. Maybe we'll see you at the North Georgia "Prater's Mill Country Fair" or maybe the "Creative Arts Guild Festival". Stop in and say "Hi!"

Southern towns

I love Southern towns. They have a charm all their own. This photo was taken in downtown Dalton, GA, at 7:49 on July 20th and it appears that nothing much is happening. Just wait until around 8:00. Shop keepers flip the "Closed" signs over and they're open for business. As the sun rises and illuminates the storefronts, you can see history in the brickwork. Except for a few businesses lost in a fire, these same facades were standing in the mid 1940's - and even before. Ya'll stop in to see us sometime.

early hay

This was the first hay cutting at the Tunnel Hill battlefield. These bales are already in the barn and the second cutting is waiting for pickup. This early morning photo shows the shadow of Chetogeeta Mountain falling across the meadow. It won't be long until the knoll to the left will sprout canvas tents housing Civil War reenactors.

Meadowlawn Springhouse

Everyone in Tunnel Hill, GA, is gearing up for the annual "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment set for September 7th and 8th. This is an early morning photo of the springhouse located near the Clisby Austin house, a pre-Civil War plantation home. The spring still runs with crystal clear, cool water. The hay has just been cut again and baling will take place very soon. Ah-h-h-h the smell of new mown hay!!!

Casey's nap

I had to post this photo of Casey napping. He doesn't know he's laying in a sunbeam unless he feels its warmth. Casey is blind. I found him at about 6 months old. He had been tortured and blinded by -- I don't know who but I do know they were evil. He is now 8 years old and has such a sweet and gentle way. He knows his way around the house, although he sometimes gets lost if he takes his nap in a different spot. Sometimes he bumps into the furniture, but that doesn't stop him from playing with his catnip mouse and chewing every shoestring he finds. He uses a kind of kitty radar "wowoooo??" if he gets lost. When I hear that special sound, I ask "Casey, are you lost?"....and he always finds me. When he hears a visitor at the front door, he's always the first one to greet them with his especially loud purr. Throwaway pets???? That would be like disgarding love.

bridge to yesteryear - PHOTO TO BE POSTED AGAIN

Turning off Highway 41 onto Oak Street, you drive through this little covered bridge to get to the Clisby Austin house. Most of the year the property is peaceful - except during the annual "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment. During the event, the meadow to the extreme right is used for parking and thousands of visitors will walk through the bridge, sometimes stopping to view the little creek underneath.

Battle of Tunnel Hill blacksmith shop

This blacksmith shop sits on the property soon to host the annual "Battle of Tunnel Hill" Civil War reenactment. The event dates are September 6th and 7th - just a little more than 2 weeks away!! Excitement is in the air! Reenactors are already scouting out campsites.

My art group, Art Alliance of North Georgia, will be onsite both days painting en plein air -- and we'd like to invite other artists to come join us in the premier "Tunnel Hill Battle Paintout". I'll be posting some of the paintings to my art blog at http://www.beejw.blogspot.com/ and be sure to check out http://www.southernpleinairpainters.blogspot.com/ for more artwork by fellow artists who will be at the event.

late afternoon colors

Late one afternoon Sandra and I were scouting Dalton, GA, for scenic spots to capture on canvas. We had driven around in West Hill Cemetery --- yes, cemetery --- and found several promising sites. I spotted this unusual tree beside the little stone chapel. I don't know whether it was the late afternoon sun or the type of tree, but the colors seemed super-saturated. The tree limbs appeared a bright red while the leaves were amazing shades of lime. Some of the shadows were creeping in and showing themselves a cool blue. It was a wonderful sight for an artist.

bridge at Jack's River

Jack's River is a popular destination in the Summertime South. There's a park near Flat Top Mountain in Northwest Georgia. It has campsites, toilet facilities, drinking water and parking for horse trailers. The entrance to the campground is immediately West of the Southern end of the 7.2 mile Pinhoti/South Loop Trail. This track meanders through fields and hardwood forests along the banks of the South fork of the Jack's River.
............and there's nothing like goin' to the river in the Summertime South..........

1930's schoolhouse

This building was once a 2-room schoolhouse. It was still in use during the 1930's and 40's in Cisco, GA (Murray County) where Uncle Bill Colvard was the teacher. The windows aren't boarded up -- the shutter-like window coverings have latches so they can be removed. The chimneys are original.

Who says the sky is blue????

Although blue is the color of the sky most of the time, any color you can imagine can be seen there....We just have to take the time to notice....
This is an early October sky in Northwest Georgia. It's as though we have "Southern lights".

Mr. Turkey at the beach

A friend took Mr. Turkey to Daytona Beach last November. He seems to have enjoyed it.

Prater's Mill

This is the gin located on the Prater's Mill property. During the Country Fair, the entire area houses vendors, singers, craftsmen and artisans. It's a BIG event so if you're in the Northwest Georgia area, be sure to visit on October 11th and 12th.

Prater's Mill

This was taken earlier this year after heavy rainfall. As my Granddad would say, "The crick's up."
On October 11th and 12th, the annual Prater's Mill Country Fair will be held here. There will be lots of country crafts, fine arts, home cookin', music, food, and lots of fun. So if you're in the area of Varnell in Northwest, GA, ya'll come by to see us. You can find information at http://www.pratersmill.org.

The Dalton Depot

The original train depot in Dalton, GA, has been restored to house The Dalton Depot, an upscale restaurant. It has retained its original brickwork, flooring and archtectural personality. The service is great and the food is wonderful. Stop in sometime when you're in the area. http://roadsidegeorgia.com/site/daltondepot.html

Southern architecture

This is The Depot in Dalton, GA. As the name implies, it's the old train depot --- but it's been restored and is now a fine restaurant. The architectural lines and motifs make it an interesting place to visit --- and the food is excellent. http://roadsidegeorgia.com/site/daltondepot.html

preparing for Winter

It's hard to think of Winter when the temperature is hovering in the mid 90's. But cool weather is just a few short months away and there are cattle to be fed. Farmers depend on the seasonal hay cutting to get their live stock through cold weather. They are rewarded with milk, butter and new Spring calves. Life goes on.

Brasstown Bald

This photo was sent by my friend Mike W. I'm sure this scene reminds him of his beloved Scotland.

"Beautiful Brasstown Bald, rising 4,784 feet above sea level, is Georgia's highest mountain. On clear days, the spectacular 360-degree view from atop the mountain allows you to see four states, Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The surrounding area is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.".....quoted from a site featuring Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests.

Jefferson Davis

This statue and monument for Jefferson Davis is located in Richmond, VA, near downtown.






















Click on the photo for more detail.

painting the South

Several friends and I regularly get outside and capture the "Scenic South" on canvas. This photo was taken the day Sandra, Carol and I explored sites at the Chickamauga Battlefield in Northwest Georgia. We found the shady side of a hill and caught some of the early yell0w light - which quickly turned to clear blue. We saw several hikers, bikers and a horseback rider who were all enjoying the morning.

The almost completed painting is by Sandra Babb.

out of town until August 5th

I'll be out of town until August 5th. I will try to post while I'm gone, but please forgive if it's not every day. But I'll be back soon - so don't go away.

seeking shade in summertime

Keeping cool in Georgia Summertime can mean many things. Mostly it's air conditioned comfort in front of the TV. Then there's shopping in the air conditioned mall, watching the latest blockbuster at the local theater, splashing around in the pool - anything to beat the 90+ degree heat. But what would we do if we didn't have these cool havens??

There's always Mother Nature's air conditioning. That would be sitting under a tree, in moist shadows, feeling the breeze on your face. Close your eyes now and listen for the cricket's song, the slight rustle of leaves as a squirrel scampers away, the buzz of a dragonfly. Savor the smell of new mown hay and the moss covered rocks. Ah-h-h-h, Summer in the South.

.....now it's time to head over to the deli for some chicken salad sandwiches and iced tea....

at the Georgia Mountain Fair

The Georgia Mountain Fair in Hiawassee, GA, is a sprawling event on acres of wooded land. Artisans from many states demonstrate various talents including basket weaving, pottery, painting, sewing, metal and wood working - and the list goes on and on. This is a replica of a cabin which might have been found in the North Georgia mountains many years ago. It sits among several other period buildings - including the necessary outhouse.

a moment in time

Dragonflies are luminous creatures flitting about - here for a second, then gone. I captured this one perched on a twig at the edge of a lily pond. Its body appeared almost metallic in the sunlight. We can see marvelous sights if we just stop for that special moment in time.

Cherokee Days of Recognition

Cherokee Days of Recognition is coming up next weekend on August 2nd and 3rd at Red Clay State Park. If you've never been to a pow-wow nor seen Native American dancers, you've missed a great opportunity. You'll find storytellers, leather workers, basket weavers, herbalists, and lots of good food. Finding a Native American festival this Fall is something to explore.

cool Summer picnic

This is a little park in Tunnel Hill, GA, named in honor of Harry Griffin - a longtime resident. This photo was taken just after sun up on July 24th. The dew covered grass appears blue in the shadows, but you can see the sun breaking through the trees promising another hot Summer day. Every year there's a "Rubber Ducky Race" at the creek. Great fun!! Stop in and see us sometime!

Joseph E. Johnston

This is the only known statue of Confederate General Joseph E. Johnston. It's located on Hamilton Street in downtown Dalton, GA, overlooking the business district.

if you build it, they will come

Birds paint the sky in endless hues as they fly along their Spring routes. Finding housing for their new families is important, so any structure that features safety is satisfactory. This old bird house has seen countless occupants over the seasons. This year its fledglings are almost ready to take to the sky, painting as they fly.

preservation - not destruction

All to often, in the name of progress, older buildings are torn down and replaced with more modern structures. These shops are on Hamilton Street in Dalton, GA, and are a wonderful example of historical preservation.

The Book Nook was Ruth's Dress Shop in the mid 1950's - I'm not sure exactly how old the building itself is. The original floors are still there, highly polished and with the familiar 'creak' from years gone by. The Yellow Bird was once a shoe store with its large front windows and inviting double glass doors.

The allure of Southern towns can be seen if you will bypass the sprawling malls, and seek out the personalities of both the historical buildings and the people who love and care for them.

Battle of Tunnel Hill

These reenactors participated in the Battle of Tunnel Hill in September of '07. The meadow was still under a blue haze from cannon fire. The weekend after Labor Day is the annual Civil War reenactment in this small North Georgia town. Plan to join us this year, sip some cold lemonade and learn about the heritage of our forefathers.

Western and Atlantic railroad tunnel

This historical marker is beside the rail crossing in Tunnel Hill, GA. About 30 trains go by each day, of course depending on the days schedule.
Click on the image to read the entire story.

smell the morning glories

We like to think that here in the South, we live a slower more laid back life. That should mean that we take the time to "stop and smell the roses". Sometimes we do; sometimes we don't. For years my parking place in the post office employee lot was the same. Day in and day out I parked there, rushed in and started my day. Then one Spring morning, I noticed that "SUDDENLY" there was a delightful forest of cattails, morning glories and bees not 10 feet from where I had been parking!! After my discovery (it had been there all the time!), I slowed down to investigate the other world just outside the parking lot.

98 degrees in the shade

Summers in the South can be sweltering. Temps hover around 98 for days on end and the humidity can be just as high. There's just no relief to be found - and it's still 98 degrees in the shade. This photo was taken several years ago, during the hottest part of August, at Audubon Acres in the East Brainerd area of Chattanooga, TN. So far this Summer we haven't had many days in the upper 90's. But there's still August.

sleepy little Southern towns

Dotted all along Southern highways are sleepy little towns, just out of sight of busy interstates. Life goes on as always. Some folks are still farmers like their grandfathers before them. Others are shopkeepers like their fathers. Still others are lawyers and some computer geeks. Just plain folks living in the South.

But you may not meet any of them unless you exit the fast paced thoroughfares criss-crossing the South. This is part of Tunnel Hill, GA, with some of its 150+ year old buildings still being used. It's just 3 miles off I-75 and right on Highway 41.

The folks are friendly. Stop in and visit over a glass of sweet tea.

the old swimmin' hole

On Saturday, July 21st, I set up my painting easel at South (or East depending on who you ask) Chickamauga Creek. I was catching the morning light, putting it to canvas, and watching people strolling along the path. Several folks stepped off the walkway and chatted about my painting, the weather, etc.

One older gentleman told a story of how he learned to swim "right over there" when he was a little boy. He said that "the old road crossed the crick here" as he pointed to the stream's flat bottom. Upon looking closely, I could see the perfect place for wagons to "ford the crick" on their way to market in downtown Ringgold, GA.

Tunnel Hill historical marker

I hadn't intended to concentrate on Civil War history. But there's just so much information found on roadside historical markers, I thought I'd post a few that are located in the Tunnel Hill and Dalton, GA, area.
Click on the image for high resolution.

Pure Oil in the good old days

The Pure Oil company, many years ago, sought to standardize their stations with a recognizable style for the traveling public. This one is located on Wall Street (Highway 41) in Calhoun, GA. The blue and white English cottage motif was the trademark for Pure Oil's clean, safe filling stations. Gas probably cost around 15 to 20 cents per gallon then. The good old days.

Confederate Hospitals and Ringgold Courthouse

This courthouse sits in Ringgold, GA, just across Nashville Street from the wedding chapel - see post from yesterday.

In front of the courthouse is this historical marker with information about Confederate hospitals in the North Georgia area. If you click on the image, you'll be able to read the information.

I've posted several photos having to do with the Confederate cemetery and hospitals, and which reference the Civil War. This is done because of pride in my heritage. I love living in the South.

But I also remember that everyone who died in the Civil War ---- they were ALL Americans.

Biggest Little Wedding Chapel in the South

This is the Ringgold, GA, wedding chapel on Nashville Street. Weddings, complete with decorations and music, are offered. It's right across the street from the courthouse so everything is convenient.

My sister-in-law was married there. So was Dolly Parton in 1966.

Men in kilts

You may wonder what men in kilts have to do with the South. Many Scots and Irish folks settled in the Carolinas in the mid 1700-1800's. The Carolina mountains were very similar to their beloved highlands of home. Throughout the South you can find countless Celtic festivals and Highland games. If you've never been to one of these events, you'll be amazed at the wonderful Scotch eggs, shepards pies, tartans, family heraldry, music, dance - and endlessly friendly people.

Confederate Cemetery in Dalton, GA

These photos show the Confederate Cemetery at West Hill in Dalton, GA.
Click on the photo to read the inscription.

Nothing but Chirping

On this very early Georgia morning, nothing could be heard except the chirping of crickets, birds and frogs. I guess frogs croak, don't they?? Anyway, it was so very quiet, before 7:00am. Folks hadn't yet started out for work and there was a pause between trains carrying their goods North and South, East and West --- an ideal time to reflect on the wonders of North Georgia.

NASCAR in the South

I guess almost everyone knows that NASCAR started in the South - with good ol' boys running moonshine. Super speedways are the big ticket items now, but not too long ago NASCAR stars raced on smaller tracks around the South. This 1960's photo shows (left to right) Marty Robbins, Red Farmer, Freddy Fryar and Bobby Allison at Boyd's Speedway just outside Chattanooga, TN. Recently Boyd's Speedway has reopened with standing room only races on Friday nights. Ya'll come to see us!!

Who? Where? When?

This photo is furnished by Bradley Putnam, the unofficial historian in Tunnel Hill, GA. There is a mystery of who these men are, and when and where the photo was taken. It may have been somewhere in Dalton, GA.
There's a moral to this story, too. ALWAYS be sure to date the reverse side of your photos. And it helps to also make note of who's in the photo and where it was taken.

Southern Belle Princess

This is Haleigh. She's a Southern Belle Princess.

All women born in the South, young or old, are Southern Belles. However as we get older and "grow up", we forget the childhood we've left behind and we focus on the here and now. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could take a few moments - just occasionally - and relive those butterfly mornings when we were, indeed, a Southern Belle Princess?????

Northwest Georgia hay field

This photo was taken on June 24th while the hay was baled and waiting for pickup. Throughout the South there are hundreds of hay fields like this one reminiscent of times past. This particular land is located in Northwest Georgia and is the setting of the annual Civil War reenactment "Battle of Tunnel Hill". Located just 3 miles off I-75, it's a worthwhile detour.

Old Glory

It's a little late for posting this, but the internet has been kaput today.

This is a cropped photo of a very old watercolor showing George Washington admiring Old Glory as she waves over the Revolutionary army. The other flag on the standard is the Union Jack, or Union flag of Great Britain. Happy Independence Day!!

Sandra's butterfly house

You've heard the old addage "Stop and smell the flowers". We're usually in such a rush we don't take time to listen to the bird's song or watch a butterfly in it's irregular flight.

This is Sandra's butterfly house. You might not notice it unless you take time to sit on the swing or pause to hear the gentle gurgle of water in the fountain. Wait for a few minutes and you'll see a curious butterfly alight, fold its wings and venture inside.

near downtown Ringgold, GA

This quiet place is just a few blocks from downtown Ringgold, GA, and very close to I-75. Nearby people are grocery shopping, building a childrens' playground, and otherwise distracted by the everyday grind - but this little creek just whispers of peace and contentment.

Chapel at West Hill

This little rock chapel is located in West Hill Cemetery in Dalton, GA. It sits just East of the Confederate cemetery. Some stories tell of ghosts, but that doesn't prevent young couples from saying their marriage vows within its quaint walls.

Beauty by the roadside

Last year my friend, Sandra, and I ventured away from the main highways in N Georgia and found an amazing pond covered in water lilies. We set up our easels and began painting, attempting to capture the marvelous colors. We dined on peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and Dr. Pepper. Dragon flies flitted about and the occasional frog splashed in the water. What a glorious way to spend a Summer afternoon - great company, excellent food, lovely surroundings !

First hay of the Summer

This photo was taken on Thursday, June 26th, about 8:30 in the morning. The hay had been cut, baled and was waiting for the trip to the barn. The smell of sweet summer hay was intoxicating. Crickets churped and the robins were busy catching breakfast for their fledglings. Late afternoon thundershowers had made for incredible sky and cloud colorations. Northwest Georgia is indeed a wonderful place on this Earth.

Crawfish Springs

This is Crawfish Springs in Chickamauga located in Northwest GA. Chickamauga is a lovely little town of gift shops, antiques, quaint restaurants - and friendly people.

back road to Tunnel Hill battlefield

This photo was made early one morning in June '08. The gravel road is the back entrance to the Tunnel Hill battlefield. At the top of the rise on the right sits Fort Keys, which is a battlement used during the annual Civil War reenactment in Tunnel Hill. The sun was quickly burning off the fog hovering over the meadow.

finding beautiful scenery in the Southern USA

I have several other blogs. One is my personal art blog at www.beejw.blogspot.com. Over the years I've collected photos from traveling far (Ireland) and wide (southern California). But I think the Southern states in the US are as beautiful as most other places in the world. I guess I'm kind of prejudiced because I live in Northwest Georgia.

In this blog, I'll be posting photos I've taken in and around Georgia. I'll also host images by other photographers in the area. I hope you enjoy the scenery. And please do feel free to comment, ask questions and enjoy.