Autumn at The Acres

Autumn is beginning to take center stage. The dogwoods have gone purple; The Ancient One--the old red maple at the turn of the driveway--is beginning to show its colors, as well as its smaller brothers in the Meadow. The bit of rain we got last week--what a lovely day--and the cool, crisp air is working its magic. I won't complain about another rainy day. Flower-wise just a few beds are still blooming--though, here and there, there are some solo showoffs. Mom's Memorial Garden at the turn of the driveway is glorious. Deep purple monkhoods, tons of blue forget-me-nots, still some marigolds--she would love it! I turn the corner at The Ancient One to head up to the cave and--a postcard in blues, purples, and yellows greets me. An anticipated surprise every time I come home. The container garden is lovely as well. Tons of annuals daring autumn to throw some frost its way. Pick a color--pick just about any color--and it's shining forth from the container garden. The third bloomer is the one I put gladiolas in at the middle of September. Must be six or seven beauties in there, and they have a background canvas of monkshood, pink phlox, and bluish-purple spiderwort. The Wild Area still has some yellow goldenrod and purple New England asters--and butterflies everywhere. Still some good walks at The Acres each day.
I also started bird feeding for this fall and winter. It takes awhile for them to hone in on the catering service--but not too long. As always the chickadees are first. Then, their playmates the titmice and nuthatches join in. By twilight a sparrow or two will have gotten the message and even a lone Cardinal. My feathered friends will keep winter in colors.
Delighted you've decided to visit Autumn. I always enjoy when you drop by.