Crossing Into Autumn

Over a decade ago, in the Donegal hills, the seeds were planted for a stunning display of Irish heritage. This incredible Celtic Cross is visible aerially in the Autumn when the trees of this forest contrast in their fall colors. Thanks be to Forester Liam Emmery, who's since passed, for this woodland magic. Enjoy a flyover in the video below. And savor these Autumnal days before they fall away with the leaves. 

Autumn in the Hedges of our Heart

Glendalough Forest in October

I've been lucky enough to ramble the Celtic lands of Ireland, England, & Wales during this ephemeral season of Autumn. To taste the blackberries on the brambles, to stir up golden leaves. They are beautiful, enchanting places in each season but they have a atmosphere to them in the Fall, with the hedgerows adorned with myriad berries and the valleys swallowed in mists.

It is not wonder that so many of our Halloween traditions are rooted in these lands. More on Samhain traditions in the following week but today I share some of the fruits of fall that I've encountered on my travels, some of the shimmering leaves, the golden light and the mythic shadows.

Giant Rosehips found in Cornwall, England - The biggest I've ever seen! Rosehips are edible & medicinal & kind of otherworldly here. 

Rosehips - What is left after a rose blooms. 

Rowan Berries - just everywhere across the countryside

Rowan Berries

Hawthorn Berries

View of Glendalough (Valley of the Two Lakes) from a long hike uphill. 

Dublin Cobbles and Gilt Leaves

Path to Tintern Abbey, County Wexford, Ireland

A gold leaf strewn path at Glenariff Forest Park, Antrim, Ireland. The Waterfall Hike. 

A Glowing Orange Footpath through Tollymore Forest Park, County Down, Ireland

Also hop over to Into the Hermitage to read of an artist's daily life during Autumn in England - full of old traditions - including elderberry and rosehip syrups. Rima Staines makes the most mysteriously beautiful art forever situated in the hedgerows of Autumn. Here shop is HERE .

Tea Time

Things are brewing here at Emerald Post. We've been busy in the studio crafting new treasures for the gift giving season. To be sure, our shelves will soon be full of one-of-a-kind gifts for Irish enthusiasts, those enamored by Celtic culture, for travelers, history lovers, and the curious of heart. Until then, put the kettle on and enjoy a steaming cuppa tea while leaves blaze and fall and Autumn settles in.