This view is from our side yard looking into the front. In an effort to have less impact on Mama Earth, we're (well, Neal) slowly shrinking our front yard by transforming it into a meadow. Neal did a lot of landscape architecture coursework as an undergrad, and I reap the results with an interesting yard. When the grass is freshly mown, the line between meadow and yard is crisp, and the flow of the path to walk in order to enjoy the meadow (along with the myriad frogs, bees, and dragonflies) is nothing short of delightful.
I savor these autumn days, especially when they are linked with chilly nights. I know that, before long, I'll need to brace myself before I open the door. Right now it's enough to pull on a sweater and bring my beloved pashmina onto the deck with me if I want to enjoy the fresh air.
The leaves are taking their sweet time changing, and I'm not complaining. We drove to the New York border today to mess around in a few antique shops. I scored a delightful little embroidered gift for my mom, and I also made a purchase at an impressive tea shop. When I came back from my summer in England, nothing but a proper cuppa would do for me. Over the years, I've settled back into less satisfying American tea bags. One of the little changes I want to make to enrich my life is to return to a proper cup of tea. I've only myself to blame if I'm feeling less than elegant about the details of my life, and it's up to me to establish and maintain some standards.
I'd love to hear about how you ensure there are little moments of elegance in your life.