The recent rains brightened the garden to a considerable extent. I noticed yesterday that the Asters beneath the Lacy Oak are about ready to join the show, a little late but appropriate for a fall bloom. I hope the Yellow Bells across the yard by the fence will get their bloom on, too. Our single Muhly has raised it purple fall flag. I can remember the days when we had a big row of them, before the trees did what trees do and blocked them from the sun.

Later this morning, I will head out to knock down the remaining tall grass in the front yard to make way for next spring’s bluebonnets. It looks as though the grass did the intended job of blocking the khaki weed from getting any sun. At least, I hope that’s the case. It’s a tenacious little plant and I’m still finding ones I missed as I tour the yards and grounds. Oh, well, at least I found them before their hydra headed seeds popped off and started a new generation.

I’m still waiting for the flame leaf sumac to flame. It’s grown into a fine specimen, but its leaf performance is lacking. I guess we haven’t had enough cold days to make it happen. It is offering good shade however to the ground beneath its feet and that has helped the plants in the southern garden become less baked by the constant sun. I guess when you love something, and we love that little tree, you always find the positives in the relationship, which I believe is the point of love, for trees and people alike.