It’s the witching hour, the gloaming. Patterns and shadows play across an amber horizon and as usual I am drawn towards the sky. Paddy who likes to predict tomorrows weather, is also skywatching and suddenly shouts “Come here and see this”
We both run up to the roof for the best view. Even after all these years, the sun setting in the west is impossible for either of us to ignore. Now it is all autumn gold and deep navy blue.
We are reluctant to let the day go. We carry on pottering until there is nothing else left to fix or tend. Himself eeking out the evening with forays into the garden, or myself following the light to capture the last silhouettes. Of all the hours in the day, of all the magic moments, the last dying rays of the sun hold us inthrall yet again. Neither of us wants to close the curtains on it.
I used to fear the dark and lonely silence of the night, that fading light, the end of things. The unfamiliar noises of twitching bushes of gorse on the hill or the scuttling of bats leaving their daytime home in the rafters.
I’ve learned that it’s ok. Ok to hold on, and Ok to let go. This is how it happens.
First let the darkness envelop you like a cosy blanket. Then cheer on the black swooping bats as they disappear off into the night sky. Finally set the alarm for an early walk to snap the sparkly dewy cobwebs at the break of day.
I don’t believe it! Is this me letting go of the past to make way for the new? Is this me making plans for tomorrow?
Such an amazing view – and autumnal glow – I would love to have such a place to gaze.
I'm not too fond of the darkness either, but at this time of year with window panes twinkling and the smell of wood smoke in the air I tend to find it more of a comfort then unknown.
beautiful,
Nina x
Thanks, love your image of the window panes sparkling and the smell of woodsmoke! Lots to look forward to really….:~)
What stunning photographs! The light at this time of year is just astonishing. I think the autumn is the most beautiful teacher of how to let go, and keep letting go, and love things as they fall.
Beautifully put Joanna, I have really only come to that conclusion myself recently and I am loving the light and the lessons of autumn too, thanks:~))
Such beautiful words and pictures captured so well. I love watching the sunset it is a changing picture and the sun goes down.Do you have a safe place on the roof to stand and stare?
Sarah x
Hi Sarah, yes we have a small access deck just below the ridge. The only thing we really use it for is to run up to view the sky on a nice evening, and ye, stand and stare. Thanks for your lovely comments:~))
Hello Joanna. The photos are simply lovely. I enjoyed your blog entry, as well. I have learned that the darkness is equally as important, as the light. It is in the darkness of the soil that plants develop their roots. Yet, the light is needed, also. Nature teaches us the importance of balance, in all Her ways. In as much, She reflects the purpose for holding on, and for letting go. You have done an excellent job of setting this forth, for us, in your entry. Nature is a wise teacher, if only we are willing to learn… Mile Buiochas! ~Beannaichte'!
I agree there is beauty in the darkness, one of the lessons in photography! C
an enchanting post …
Thank you:~))
Just spectacular skies….I used to fear the dark and unknown…I would mourn the fall…but now I look forward to the moon and stars..the silhouettes in the moonlight…to cocoon myself in fall and rest in winter to emerge anew in spring…it is a magical time to make way for the new and I wish you much happiness!
Once you have a camera in your hand it is true that the dwindling light of autumn offers up real treasures, thanks Donna, I wish you much happiness and joy in the coming months too:~))
I love autumn, maybe because it goes by so fast here. I like the light and smell of the air. The change of seasons remind us of change. It looks like you are embracing change beautifully.
I a this year, thanks Mary:~)
So much about philosophy and life in your posts and photos. Thank you for both!
Working on both, like us all I suppose, thank you!
It is dark. The curtains are drawn, the fire is burning. One cat asleep inside, the other having warmed up has gone exploring. We are safe home after a long day.
Your last 2 paragraphs sparkle with Light!
I can just picture you and the kitties! Thank you Diana:~)
Beautiful pictures of even more beautiful skies.
This time of the year is great especially after such an overcast summer! Thank you so much Janneke:~)
Love those silhouetted wild flowers against a wonderful sunset. It's been good for dramatic Waterford sunsets of late…
You are just a bit closer to the Comeraghs over there I think, that's the spot where the sun sinks from here. A great relief after all those grey skies, thanks for those kind words George:~)
The holding on and letting go. It's a fine art – to figure out exactly when and which to do..and what. And – what stunning sunset image. They take my breath away!!!
Still learning on all fronts Marcie! Nature is a great teacher, and thank you kindly for your thoughts:~))
Here via Susannah Conway. Your photos are beautiful and they make such a vibrant blog. Lovely meaningful words too.
Am also a big fan of Susannah! Thank you Fiona:~)
I love your images, you know that, but why has no one nominated you for an award for your words?! This is glorious post Catherine 😀
Annie, you've made my day. X
Amazing view.. Amazing story ..
The colours in those photos are stunning! I've been going through all your photos – if I was half as good as you I'd be pretty happy!
Aishling
http://la-grianghraf.tumblr.com/
Aishling you have a really classy set of images yourself, just popped over to your blog! Congrats on being shortlisted, and thanks for your lovely comment :~)
Lovely
We can't change our past, but everyone can change their future. 🙂 Anyway, these are jaw-dropping views from the roof. They remind me of the animated film, Lion King! LOL. Especially the trees in the shadows!
“It’s ok. Ok to hold on and Ok to let go” – that’s how we should live our life because, let's face it, the only permanent thing is change! By the way, those are inspiring photos! How I wish we had the same view from our roof top!
–Hugh Dinatale
You only live once, that’s why you have to live without regrets and enjoy it! At times when I want to be alone to think about something, I also go up in our roof and look afar. This soothes and relaxes my mind more than anything else. I am lucky that we have a roof where I can stay whenever I want.
–Chantay Smithingell
Awesome sunset view! I’m really jealous with those people who have their own roof deck. They can really enjoy a magnificent view every time they want to. The next time I buy a house, I will make sure that I’ll have a wonderful spot up there! 😉