Pastoral Monastery

Many Loudouner's are unaware that just over the ridge lies a sprawling and peaceful monastery. Along the Shenandoah river on the north side of Route 7, you will find the Clarke County Monastery. This tranquil place is partially open to the public. Various homemade products and religious literature can be purchased in the welcome center. This photo was taken on the west side of the property, just off the beaten path (as you would expect from this blog).

Turkey Vultures - A Round Hill Icon

When driving into Round Hill from the east, you will often see Turkey Vultures perched in one of the largest trees in town. There can be upward of fifty of these large birds looking over as you drive by (all hoping you drive into the ditch, I'm sure). Pictured here are roughly twenty five vultures, though some are obscured by the thick branches. Many more flew away upon my approach.

Spring in January

In light of the Spring we're having in the middle of January, I thought this photo of a robin would be appropriate. This Loudoun bird was taken at Balls Bluff historical park located north of Leesburg. I'm pretty sure it let me get close expecting to be fed, but alas, I only had camera.