Walking in the neighborhood, well I am taking an easy way out. I don’t think Tina will mind this approach. We spend lots of time at Ruuhijärvi were our summer house in the country is located, even in the autumn and early spring, as the changing seasons bring a unique beauty to the landscape. Have done for the past 30 years, enjoying the tranquility that comes with spending time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We don’t have many neighbors here, so it provides the perfect escape to connect with nature and indulge in peaceful solitude. Here is my take on this challenge: just fields, trees, and a serene lake that reflect the sky like a mirror. If you have followed me for some time, you’re not seeing anything new, sorry 🙂
All photos in galleries can be enlarged and all with the simple signature are taken this weekend.

This path is our drive to our piece of land – I love to watch the sunlight during different times of the day and see the seasons change as the foliage goes from green to yellow to brown. Seeing the sunlight filtering through the branches, casting playful shadows and illuminating the vibrant colors of nature. In the early morning, as the sun rises, the dew glistens on the grass, creating a magical sparkle, while in the afternoon, the warmth of the sun wraps around me like a comforting blanket. As autumn approaches, the leaves dance gracefully down to the ground, creating a colorful tapestry that crunches underfoot. This transformation deepens my connection to the land, reminding me of the beauty and impermanence of nature.
The gallery below has shot that are just few minute walk away, our neighbors old drying barn that is collapsing slowly but surely for the past 30 years 🙂 you can also see their old earth cellar, not in use. And were we could have out boat by the lake, but don’t as we don’t have one.






This road through the forest leads to the the lake.


The same road as in the first photo, but leading to our blue cottage.

Across the fields, there are two houses standing in close proximity, each possessing its own unique charm. One is a bright and visible red house that catches the eye from a distance; until last summer, it was somewhat concealed behind four enormous spruce trees. However, the new owners decided to cut those majestic trees down, eager to allow more sunlight into their yard, especially in the morning when the sunlight paints everything in a golden hue. The other house, in contrast, stays hidden for most of the year, only revealing itself when the leaves have fallen, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of a painting. This second house is captured in the sunset shot below.





Thanks to Egídio and all of those who responded to his Fun challenge last week, it was interesting to see what we all consider as fun. Finally I hope you’ll join us next week when Patti leads us on her beautiful Pilotfish site.
Until then keep on smiling , and as a last photo this is a shot of small discoveries you find in the woods.


Nice post 🌹beautiful pictures 🌹
Thank you, glad you liked them
What wonderful images of an absolutely beautiful place, Ritva
What a delightful and peaceful place this is.
typical Finnish countryside 🙂 but I agree with you 🙂
Beautiful and so serene.
I could hang out there for the Summer. My idea of peace and tranquillity Ritva
What a beautiful place you live, Ritva. I wonder if there was a lot of thought put into taking down those gorgeous trees to let in more sunlight.
Lois, I was so happy they did, we now get the evening light, but are still safe from their sight behind younger trees 😀. Now Tinka and I can enjoy the evening sun on the sauna patio
Very good thing, then! I’m glad to hear that. 😺
Such a beautiful area to call home – summer home at least! So many lovely photos that I won’t pick out favourites, except to say how much I loved the little toadstool, almost as much as those majestic trees 😀
I was looking for a little elf in your last image Ritva, how sweet that one is! A beautiful post capturing an obviously beautiful place. I can see why you so l love it. The image of the foggy lake with trees is just marvelous!
Okay Ritva, I’m in love with the surroundings of your summer house. What a treat to be able to retreat to a place of calm and peace. Beautiful images.
What a beautiful and serene place to call home or retreat to recharge. Your beautiful photos took me on a short and sweet nature retreat. Thanks Ritva.
Ritva, you have the perfect neighborhood. What a dream! Nature and away from crowds — that’s a piece of heaven!
Gorgeous neighborhood, I’m envious!
Beautiful photos Ritva 😀
Stunning Autumn landscapes, Ritva! Those leaf-strewn autumn roads look exquisite and much like a Microsoft wallpaper theme I downloaded to my desktop. How lucky you have this! Cheers!
You have a really lovely neighbourgood. And the rest of us may walk around our neighbourhood, but that cat stalks around it 🙂
Such a beautiful and peaceful looking place!!
Perfection, Ritva. The softness of light, it feels so, so peaceful. But I’ll never understand why people think its ok to cut down trees for no valid reason. It pains me.
Sofia, we have much trees😀, this time I was happy to them go, we have now evening light , before just a glimpse over the trees.
I love those country roads, and sunsets!
Every time I go to your site and see your photos – I think I have to go to Finland more than I have delne. Wonderful light and nature. You are lucky!