Let me be the first to welcome you on another one of my walking holidays.

For as far as the eye can see, from horizon to horizon, we enjoy a wonderful view of majestic mountains, many of which are preparing for their white winter hats. The Fraser Valley, where I call home, is surrounded on all sides by these giants.

Because I grew up along the West Coast of Bristish Columbia, I sometimes take these spectacular sights for granted. It wasn't until I started writing that I began looking at my backyard with an eye to sharing my little corner of the world with others. Then, of course, it became a matter of pride to show you my home and garden in all their glory.

The water really is as cold and clean as it looks in this picture. Nothing refreshes better than fresh, clear mountain water. I know, I know, I'm supposed to boil it first...

Nothing would have pleased me more than to be able to share a picture of a flock of ducks taking off from this little cove...however, the ducks flew faster than my camera, so I was forced to show you the reflection of the tree lined beach in the crystal water they just left!

As you can see, the rain forest goes on for miles into the mountains. The green jacket is worn year round, with colourful splashes in the fall and bright green accents in the spring and summer. Now that temperatures have cooled, the skys are wearing their fall colours of misty blues on their aprons, keeping their summer suit of brilliant hues protected from the storms that go hand in hand with winter.

The forest floor seems a long way from the misty clouds - but the precipitation they leave behind is evident. Mountain streams that were barely a trickle in the summer have swollen to swiftly rushing rapids. Everywhere you look, nature is showing her fall attire.

When the sunlight peeks through the tall stands of trees, it's like a spotlight has been turned on the moss covered stage of the forest undergrowth. You can clearly see the vibrant greens and earthy browns - a place where time stands still, and you feel the ghostly footseps of the ones who went before...

Nowhere have I ever had the opportunity to photograph such a beautiful specimen of nature. Actually, I almost missed seeing this fellow - but I was quicker than I was with the ducks!

I hope you enjoyed this installment of my backyard tours. I know I enjoyed this one immensely, and am looking forward to the next one!