Texas Weather

Wow! Stepping outside this morning was great. This is my absolutely favorite time of the year in Texas. We're finally getting some relief from the heat and drought and can once again believe in gardens that don't die and trees that actually have green leaves! I'm sure we're in for more hot days, but at least we've had a glimpse of what is coming - and it's beautiful! I hope all of you are able to enjoy the great outdoors today, even if it's just in a small way - Fall's around the corner!

What's That Falling From the Sky?

Finally! We got some much needed rain in this little corner of Texas! My gardens are really enjoying it and to top it off, it's been nice and cool these past few mornings. Could Fall be approaching, ever so quietly? I sure hope so. Fall's my favorite time of year. It's cooler and so energizing, I find I have the "git up 'n go" to get things done that I've been putting off. It's also a time for reflection on the past year. I know, some of you will think I'm nuts and that the end of December is the right time for that kind of exercise, but for me, Fall signals a type of "rebirth" of my spirit, body, and mind. When I wrote about my new job sending me to California, I didn't get sent anywhere, yet. But any day I'll get a call to head out somewhere! I'll keep ya'll up to date on that front. Until then, slow down, breathe in the nice cool air and enjoy!

New Job on the Horizon?

Well, I guess it was too good to last - looks like I'm going to have to find a "real" job! The healthcare thing pays better so, guess I'll have to chase the cash for awhile longer. It's a traveling job. First assignment could be in the Bay area of California. I guess that could be fun for awhile.Wonder what will happen to the gardens and critters? Maybe I can sneak a couple of guineas into a suitcase!

Rain? What Rain?

I’ve been busy digging new beds, planting new plants, planning vegetable gardens and, oh yes ---- watering, watering, and did I mention watering? I have decided that if we don’t get rain soon, I'm going to let everything die and just start over next year! Dragging that 300 feet of hose from one side of my gardens to the other has just about destroyed my right shoulder, not to mention the heat stroke that I know I must’ve had at least once! One good thing came of all that hard labor – my husband laid 800 feet of water lines so that I have water wherever I need it! Happy Birthday to me!! Yeah! But this summer’s also taught me a thing or two about “planning”. I’m not good at that process. I’m more of a “see the plant, gotta have it” kind of gal, and then I bring it home and figure out where to put it. No good spot? Let’s dig another bed!! My husband’s a very special guy, as he hasn’t left me to my grandiose dreams and bailed! So I’m determined to put more into the planning art of gardening. This especially includes planting more drought tolerant plants and Texas natives. I’ve got a good start, but I’ve let the dark side of “ooohh, how pretty” gardening cast a shadow over my Master Gardener training from time to time. But no more! I’m researching and planning to make the best choices for my landscaping AND my water supply. I’m going to give “xeriscaping” a good shot and hopefully this time next year, I can sit back and enjoy the view instead of constantly having to water it. If anyone has any good plant suggestions, please let me know! I’m going to need all the help I can get. August is passing quickly – I’m going to sit outside under the shade trees, have a tall glass of iced cold tea and start planning for a wiser next year. Anybody want to join me?