Exceptions

Well, most of the annuals are out or are well on their way, but not the dahlias, of course. They are going strong, coming into their own. I got them planted later than I would have liked, so many of the plants are still covered in buds, just ready to break into full bloom. And the globe amaranth are still looking pretty lovely too. 

I think this might be my favorite bouquet of the whole season. Totally in love with the orange and brick red with the lavender-pink. So in love that I think this specific combination along with some similarly hued friends will be seen together in the garden next year.

I've got to get the dahlias labeled now so that I'll know who's who when I dig up the tubers to store for the winter. I made the mistake of throwing them all in a bucket last year, then added a couple new varieties this spring and planted them all in one bed, and some of the colors are definitely fighting each other in their current proximity. They're also too tall for the locale and I didn't stake them soon enough, so they're looking kind of unruly. So based on color, they'll be making their way to different spots in the garden next year and will be joined by some analogous and complimentary companions of different species. 
In case it's not obvious, I spent part of the day with my nose in a really good garden design book. Finally getting to that much needed planning, and learning a lot in the process. Optimistic next year's garden is going to be my best effort ever. 
But there's a couple seasons in the interim and I've been making some exciting plans for the indoor months. Stay tuned, details coming!

Last Hoorah

It's been a bit dreary, chilly, and fall-like the last couple of days and I'm rather loving it. We had a fantastic weekend, this one just past, that included great friends, great food and drink, and an amazing exhibition opening. 

I cut some blooms to have around over the weekend, some of the last of the summer crop. The golden rod and the unsuccessfully identified other yellow wildflower were foraged from the edge of the woods bordering the community garden. 

In the Meantime...

Almost done with garden clean-up. Lettuce, arugula and cabbage seeds are sown. Contemplating next moves. 

But on with the title. Probably eaten this most perfect of all brunches more times than is really bueno lately, but don't care. Also in perhaps the best physical condition ever in terms of strength and stamina. So there.

10¢ each, set of four at a garage sale. Sweet old fruit crate $1 at same sale (picture sometime in the future, perhaps).

A.M. kitty

Unwieldy dahlias, but how can you argue with those faces?

Bookcase top gilting. 

Imperfection...

...

embraced.

And speaking of, a toast to nine years. Because that's the only way two people can ever even get half as far.  

Retrospective

A few bouquets from throughout the inaugural season. 

I am about to embark on a monumental clean-up of my community garden space. Some things are pretty well spent as fall is nigh, while what is still trying to bloom is fighting a loosing battle with weeds. This is thanks in part to my neglect, but also to hefty doses of unpasteurized manure that have been spread on the plots every spring for years, I've been told. A weed control strategy beyond a hoe and a strong back will definitely be part of my plan for next year if I grow there again.

Post clean-up, I have an assortment of lettuce, arugula, and two varieties of baby cabbage seed on order to go in the ground. 

Alright then...

to work!