Unlikely Pairs/Weekend Outing/Blogger

Why can’t we be friends? World peace is something we all want. There is division among nations and within nations. Prejudice separates people by color, religion, social, and political to name just a few underlying reasons why we simply can’t get along.

Thinking along these lines, I decided to Google unlikely pairs. What do you think turned up in my search? Perhaps, you’ll find this, as interesting as I did. Check out these links for unlikely pairs: Unlikely Animal Friends & Bizarre BFFs: Unlikely But Awwwesome Animal Pics.

We can all agree, this isn’t a normal thing to find typical critter enemies being best buds. But, we can all agree this is nothing short of amazing and makes for cute photo opportunities.

How did your weekend shape up? On Friday, we had the good fortunate of taking a day trip to the mountains. We ventured upon the Blue Ridge Parkway where we were able to take a lovely walk out one of the closed roads. The day was absolutely gorgeous. The threat of rain was nowhere in sight.

Driving south on the parkway about half an hour from Cherokee, North Carolina, we spotted this lovely view…

The mountains silhouetted in the foreground allows the distance ridges to pop out before your eyes like rolling waves. There is something about going to the mountains I always want coffee.  In Cherokee, we got some coffee. The shops in Cherokee are still closed for business. This is their off-season. Thankfully, Hardee’s was open and we got a large cup of Joe to go. I know what you’re thinking fast food coffee, yuck! Right? Surprisingly, it wasn’t bad at all and it satisfied my java fix.

Have you ever noticed, when driving through the mountains how tranquil it is? My entire being literally goes limp, as I melt into the surroundings while the lull of the peaceful drive causes my mind to slip far, far away. We detoured off 441 across the Smoky’s and headed to Clingman’s Dome – the highest point in the park. Little did we know the surprise waiting for us.

Large wildlife isn’t seen much in the park. These rare nature sightings are always breathless. Sometimes your concept of what you’re seeing isn’t waken to the fact a beautiful creature has entered your realm simply because you are in their element and it feels so normal for them to be there where it isn’t for you. This is how I perceive it anyhow especially given the near catatonic state my brain was in succumbing to the relaxing drive through the mountains.

What a blessing to watch this young guy nibbling on his dandelion salad seemly unmoved by our presence. Traffic was very light and he lingered along the roadside for a while before ambling off into the woods. A unique privilege gifted to us.

The vehicles from several states near and far away like filled the parking lot with tripod mounted cameras lining the sidewalk ready for action. Each photographer, amateur and pro waiting patiently for the chance to snap glorious sunset pictures in the majestic blue hazed mountains. We were there for the same reason. While waiting for the big moment, I took this…
In the distance, you can see Fontana Lake. I love how the sunlight gingerly lights the trees in the foreground like diamonds. Unfortunately, no sunset opportunity came because a wide band of clouds obscured the sun’s palette of colors. However, there is never a missed photographic moment while in the mountains. Instead of vivid paint streaks across the sky, I captured this delightful image as we were leaving.

Where do you like to escape for the day in your area?

Take a few minutes to enjoy a cup of coffee with your bloggy friends, as you enjoy some random reflections, considerations, or broodings. While you’re at it, join in on the fun – create your own post and link up! Have a terrific Tuesday!

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