Henry David Thoreau
This little path was built as part of our permaculture-inspired, front yard renovation. As with all things, building the path brought a little surprise into our lives. A nice surprise, so okay, I'll take it :)
As I worked in the front yard (on the path and on plantings), I had the opportunity to meet many of my neighbors I had not yet ran into. In our suburban neighborhood many people keep to themselves. Busy lives full of jobs, family, commitments, fill up time and building relationships with next-door neighbors just isn't as important as it used to be.
One of my neighbors, who must have noticed me working in the yard all weekend, drove by just as I was setting the last stones in place and honked at me giving me a big thumbs up ~ but that was not the best compliment -
The children love it! It is as used as any play place I have ever owned. Neighborhood kids on walks can't seem to resist, they just zip onto and then back to the sidewalk. I have to admit it even brings out the child in me and from time to time I skip from stone to stone, arms outstretched, hoping I keep my balance.
We installed the path to protect the trees as we walk to and from the house on our walks, and to help manage a water-pooling issue. But the fringe benefits are better than the practical benefits. Who knew sticking to the path would be so much fun!
