The other day Paul Davis, who has a really fine photography blog at rpdpod, posted a photograph with the title, “Ashokan Farewell.” Paul consistently comes up with more interesting titles than anyone I know. His photo of worn, bent grasses with bright daylight coming through trees in the distance was titled after an American folk tune called Ashokan Farewell.
It’s a beautiful piece of music, one that I love. As I listened to it again I remembered an inspiring afternoon up at the Ashokan Reservoir in New York State. I was living in the city (NYC) back then and thirsted for wide open spaces, for wilderness. The beautiful waters and mountains satisfied my hunger that day. Here are photos of the reservoir and a link for the song, played by the man who wrote it, Jay Unger. I hope you can enjoy them together.
This may not be your typical Christmas season fare, but I trust you enjoyed it! Thanks to Paul for prompting this reverie.
You can find Paul’s photo, Ashokan Farewell, on his website in the December archives – it was posted on 12/18.
bluebrightly 
Love the photo with the rusty fence and flowers shadows! All are great but this one is a favourite.
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Agreed. That was my favorite also. The song was beautiful too.
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I can see that, I haven’t yet listened to it but will do that!
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Thank you! It was a little bit difficult to capture the shadows of the Queen Annes Lace on that old rusty rail – it’s not quite in focus – but I’m glad I tried.
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Loved the non-typical fare! The music touched me far more than Jingle Bells ever could have. I have this feeling I’ve heard it somewhere before (one of Ken Burns documentaries?) And the images to go with the melody, so peaceful and serene. Thank you on this day of turning back to the light!
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You’re on the money – Ken Burns used it in his documentary, The Civil War, so it had a lot of play then. So happy to hear your comments! Have a peaceful holiday, Gunta!
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Great photos. I agree with Kerlund 74 about the photo with rust and flowers. Very unique. Makes me miss the Adirondacks.
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They have a very different look from our mountains here. I’ve come to love it here, but I too was feeling so nostalgic for the look of upstate New York. Thank you!
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Beautiful gallery!
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Lovely bright photos – a treat right now from the snow and heavy cloud here. Enjoyed the music also!
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Pretty dark ‘n’ dreary these days here, too – but it looks like we’ll get some sun soon. Best to you, Ken!
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So sweet, Lynn. Queen Anne’s lace shadow is gorgeous (we all agree). Happy to know we share such pleasure in that haunting piece, and thanks for the mention. I hope your holidays are good.
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You too – have an enjoyable and holiday, and may 2014 be filled with ever more great photos with outstanding titles!
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Thank you for bringing me there, and for the sweet music for both the ear AND eye!
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Nice! Glad you enjoyed it, Elisa.
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Yes, I can see how this would feed your soul, Lynn. Beautiful reverie.
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Hey! We are listening to the music right now. Thanks for the link—and the gorgeous photos 🙂 We want to paddle it!!!!
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And you know, you may be drinking it! Not sure if that water goes to New Rochelle or maybe just NYC …have a happy holiday!
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I’ve just sat alongside you BB looking out over the stillness in that scene listening to a piece of music I’ve heard this many times before [ but not known it’s title thank you ] quite wonderful for a Sunday morning 🙂
LOve those wavy insinuating shadows of the QA Lace ….
Warm wishes across the miles to you for the holiday season …
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Thanks for the virtual visit – I think the music is very connected to your part of the planet, and I’m pretty sure you have Queen Annes Lace too, yes? Warmth to you as well…
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Listening to the wistful song while looking at your pictures is quite a lovely experience, Lynn. I love the picture of the lacy flower & shadow beside the rusty guardrail. Happy holidays!
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A rusty guardrail is exactly what it was – somehow I couldn’t find the words, but you’re always good at that. I’m fascinated by shadows and other traces of the things around us. Happy holidays to you too!
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I love shadows too, and reflections, and nature blended with man-made things. You’re always good at capturing those. 🙂
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Blissful! Thank you so much Lyn!
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I enjoyed your very contrary Christmas post too Patti!
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Beautiful photos. I love that melody, and I often play it on my piano. 🙂
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You should record it, and post it someday! Thanks for your visit – have a great holiday!
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Always nice to see wild carrot’s flowers ( white). Could have been aethusa cynapium ( poisonous) but aren t as they have multiple bractee under the flowers. Nice pictures all together.
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You’re right about the identification! Thanks for your visit and have a wonderful holiday!
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You to
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Lovely. That’s all I have to say right now! (and Happy Holidaze, Blue)!
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Thank you. It is enough.
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Beautiful pictures… it would be interesting to see the picture that inspired you, but the links didn’t lead to that one… Best wishes for a beautiful holiday.
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Dear Bluebrightly, I wish you a merry christmas and a happy new year. You are one of my best followers at 125tel. Many thanks for this. It’s always a pleasure to discuss photographic issues with you. Regards – KUM
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Beautiful shots Lynn.
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a nice big space ,happy christmas
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Relaxing, peaceful blue waters with a song that soothes the heart.
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