Hello, this is some very good stuff! Classy and sturdy all around. I'm fond of the dirt path borders.

The newer player sprite is good and solid. I wouldn't mind running around as him bashing monsters.
There's kind of a problem with the dirt paths... they aren't very pleasant to look at. I've tried my hand at a different style:

The trees are tad on the floaty side, so I tossed a stronger shadow on them.
The grass not resolving against the houses is kind of noticeable. It'd probably give things oomph if you added some thick, bushy edging.
Finally for something quite nit-picky: The grass patterns are diverse and fluffy, however I think the circle-ish textures near the dirt borders kind of look like you're looking straight down on them, causing clashes against the flowers which seem to be viewed at a different perspective, as denoted by the frowny face. You could try something volumetric, like thicker/taller grass, or chunky rocks, or something. It'd strike out a possible dissonance and probably be more distinct/polished looking.
Good luck and nice work so far
