Verde Valley

Coming down the hill, the name struck me as funny since, instead of being 'verde' (green) the valley was yellow and orange. By the time I'd driven through (stopping at the A&W for a root beer float; mmmmmmm . . . ) I'd stopped smirking and begun staring in amazement. It's so much like the valleys in Wisconsin where I grew up. Being a Californian now, I forget the grip autumn leaves have on me. Verde Valley in November forcefully reminded me.

Musical Note: I popped in Lucinda Williams' eponymous first album for the drive from Phoenix to Sedona. Her country twang and blues perception fit the drive like a glove, taking me back to my childhood along with the scenery.

Photographer's Tip: Snapping a shot over your left shoulder as you zip past the scenery is not likely to result in the optimum shot. Stopping on the freeway to obtain the optimum shot, however, is not likely to garner the praise of the local law enforcement. Sometimes, you make choices.