This was the week . . . . . . .

Good Morning and good news. . . . . . . the house next door was sold

 and the closing was on Tuesday.

Two months with new owners who at first planned to raze it and build a

 fancy larger home for themselves, then made the decision to sell it on as 

they apparently couldn't fit their 'dream home' on that size lot - thank goodness!

Many people viewed the property offered 'as is', but as major renovations are

needed to bring the house back into shape, wouldn't pay the asking price.

Our new neighbor, Frank, in his early forties, we feel is going to be really

 nice - having chatted with him briefly to date.

Back view of the house next door.

I'm looking forward to  hearing what his plans are for the renovation. 

It may be a while before he moves in but yesterday there were

already people at house with cameras, laptops and clipboards etc. 

perhaps planning interior renovations/changes/updates etc.

The weather is changing. 

Yesterday's fall out from the most recent hurricane to make its final sweep

 across North Carolina, brought some rain and very strong winds. 

Acorns are almost over at last, it's now leaves, leaves, and a million more

 leaves, sailing through the air, piling up along the roadside curbs, and 

covering the garden which means plenty of raking and blowing ahead.

I love my newest mug, one of the many great birthday gifts received from 

granddaughter Jasmin.  Look at that naughty 'exploring' squirrel on the handle.

I also have a new book with a very interesting cover, a birthday gift from

 dear friend Ruth in England who knows what I enjoy reading and always

 picks amazing stories to share. 

This will be the perfect color mug for my coffee while turning the pages.

Autumn inspired breakfasts started this week.

Some days hot oatmeal, today and often, yogurt with toppings such as

 these, dried cranberries, chia seeds, muesli with nuts and oats etc.

Before the weather changed - time for some clean up jobs

 around the garden. . . . 

. . . . . and some perfect days of sunshine and warmth before the leaves started

their change to rust, orange and shades of brown.

Colorful flowers are almost gone other than a few dahlias and re-blooming 

azaleas in the front garden, however the camellias in the back are blooming

 now. . . . . and, as you can see, the newly sown grass is doing well.