Splendor In The Grass.

We are in the midst of an uncanny Indian Summer. Yesterday was the warmest day in October ever measured and indeed our second month of the fall began warmer than our July.

As the sun heats up the air to record breaking temperatures, the nights are nevertheless still cool, giving rise to misty mornings and dew covered ground. Being up early, I literally waded through our overgrown lawn - having not been mowed for over two months, it belongs more appropriately in a jungle than in a garden.

Yet the long grass offered an unexpected surprise. Among the vibrant and juicy green slender leafs, tiny droplets of water shone as if thousands of diamonds were thrown onto the ground. Spread all across the grassy carpet, these reflected the low lying autumn sun like miniature mirrors. It was as if an enchanted being crossed here in a hurry upon day break, leaving behind beads of a broken necklace. Accidentally strewn onto the leafage, some drops got caught up in the silky threads of spider webs - a treasure to find for those who look.

And indeed, what beauty lies hidden between the green straws if we only take the time to notice. Brilliant splendor in the grass, a reward for an early riser and a delightful last kiss of summer as it waves good bye.

(Please click images for a better view.)

Summer Finale.

A beautiful Indian Summer week is ending with an equally stunning sunny weekend. The air is still, the sky blue and the sun is shining.
However - it is not summer any longer. The sun has lost significantly in strength and with its position low on the horizon, it no longer warms up my terrace. Already in the middle of the day, it hides behind a row of birch trees, emerging first an hour later, to cast its final rays upon my windows.

This Summer Finale is certainly a beautiful time of the year. I love summers endlessly, but the early onset of autumn holds a definite magic of its own. It brings a certain tranquility and soothing serenity. Watching the nature winding down slowly as the rich summer retreats is contagious.

As with any seasonal transitions, there is a feeling of anticipation of a change in the air...

The Days Of Indian Summer.

This past week has been warm and sunny, thus signifying the beginning of the Indian Summer days in Scandinavia. This period will stretch about a month forward, into mid October, bringing a few summer like days; the final taste of this beautiful and fleeting season.

Although the air will grow cold with possible first frost in the early mornings and nights, the days spend in sunny, shielded spots can still offer precious few hours of vital sunshine. Those delightful final rays, before we pass the fall equinox and the sun will slowly start to disappear.

I only have a small front and back terrace, that is my own. However, I share an incredibly beautiful backyard with my neighbors. A park-like area, just in front of my windows, which is pleasing to the eye in every season.
Lined by beautiful birch trees, it is covered by bushes and shrubs, the name of which escapes me. During the course of the year, it either displays flowers or berries, adding colour to the green back drop.

I love this spot, as it is very serene and tranquil. In fact, when I stepped there for the first time ever, I decided to buy my house.