Welcome to another month, as 2022 goes rushing out the door. As you read this, Bill and I will be making our way south for the winter like the migratory fowl we are. 

I decided that I would use my platform this week to feature some of my favorite photographs from this year's photo contest. There were so many wonderful shots - I suspect that more of them will be popping up in these messages in the months ahead. I didn't envy our judges or the Facebook voters their need to pick winners!

In David Raymond's shot here the eye-catching red of the backpacks and helmets in among the glorious green of the Michaux makes for really good composition. Oh, and that burl! 

Our salute to turkeys from last week revealed that many of you have indeed witnessed a running turkey - or a flock of them. Having seen it myself, I have to say that it does kind of take you by surprise as they can MOVE. At least the wild ones - at speeds of up to 25 mph with a four-foot stride. 

Congratulations to Donna from Philly, our randomly chosen November winner. 

As December begins and winter is just around the corner, we all need to be aware even as we stay determined to get outside. What are the signs of hypothermia to look for?

Enter each week to increase your chances of a fabulous prize at the end of the month when I'll draw one entry from all correct answers received during the month.

Photo from Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania.

Poem "Hope" by Oliver Herford, The Century Illustrated Monthly. Volume 87.

(For all my winter-dreading friends, it goes on to say, "We are nearer to Spring than we were in September.")