Bittersweet.

I've waited a year for color to return to the backyard. During the spring, there's a lot of bright green. In summer, the greens and browns provide a lush backdrop and hide the neighbors on the other side of The Wild. As fall rushes forward, the sugar maple on their property puts on a stunning show. Another on Pee Dee Avenue is the talk of the town. When it's in full blaze, people slow down to take a look. I'll have to get a photo in another week.



A crape myrtle near the kitchen window, on someone else's property, is on fire.



I notice the dogwoods every time I walk through the dining room, or out the front door.



From afar, there's still lots of color in the perennial bed.



I just can't get enough of these sunflowers.



I'm still waiting for Confederate Rose. I started it from seed two years ago. Those grown from cuttings are already budding. I have no idea what colors will come of this one.



I don't eat cooked collards, but I do like them raw. I grow them because that's what we're supposed to do.



It's windy today. Storms are moving across the mountains. They should arrive later this afternoon here. Still, the butterfly weed hangs onto its seeds. The sticky from the aphids helps.



It's been a long week. It's been a very busy week. I've walked many miles across the garden center, sometimes hauling a cart of mulch or fertilizer behind me. I spent some time yesterday culling deciduous plants from the tables and putting them on clearance. We've got to make room for the Christmas Trees that will be arriving in less than a month. Indoors, tropicals are being rearranged already. The Norfolks need a lot of room while they wait for buyers. I can't believe Christmas is only two months away. I should be stocking up for the cold month of January. Instead, I've lost another 4 pounds. I'm going to need to go shopping soon. I hate shopping.



It's 64 degrees, cloudy, and humid.