After a spell of dry weather, the beech trees in these parts are sporting magnificent russet coats. They are wonderfully complemented by their neighbours in shades of green, zingy yellows, coffees and taupes. Quite a surprise really, as I`ve often billed November as a dull, grey month.
It`s one of the reasons I love my weekend runs. At this latitude, daylight is shrinking into a few brief hours so, like many others, I return home at twilight. Running under the moon and the stars in special in itself. But a quota of full spectrum light is needed too, and for that I turn to the trail and the forest on my precious days off.
It was here my running started three years ago. Drawn by the colour, the views, and the earthy smell of it all, I ventured, camera in hand to run and stop and stare. I`d like to think my photography has improved a little, and my running improved a lot. But I am glad of both because they leave me feeling better in body and spirit and mind.
November is a coy one. Quick to show her dark wicked side, she conceals her other glories well. So when you find a patch of blue in the sky, and a little time on your hands, get out there and enjoy!
redhenrun 
Thanks for the words and the photos. November is one of my favorite running months.
Beautiful pics RH. That’s north county Dublin yes? Does the river have a name?
That`s the River Boyne, Roy. North again, of north county Dublin, in the Royal County, Meath.
Our november has been spectacular–nice to see that yours is too. Such great photos!
No snow yet? It all helps anyway, to shorten winter, which, in my book at any rate, is a very good thing.
Beautiful colours 😉 Love running in autumn, crisp air, falling leaves and enough mud to make it interesting !
You were made for trail runs!
We all were 🙂 Love autumn runs
I love the way you have positioned those top two left hand photographs – the water flowing into the shaft of light… and you are right, we have had some stunning November days. Cold today though – winter’s just a breath away.
Have to confess, the positioning was a pretty random affair this time around. Yes, I really like this cold, dry snap. Suits me better than relentless rain.
I remember when I lived in Scotland how short the days were! It was hard for me to get used to… But I’m jealous of your lovely fall colors. It’s all white here now
Snow makes everything so pretty though. I don`t think I could resist that photographic opportunity!
I love autumn, but when the sun shines it’s even better.
I think I could manage to enjoy autumn if it were warm and sunny all the time!