Jane Clute

For years, I've fussed and fumed at myself for not having enough fall color in our yard. Especially when it comes to shrubs and berry-producing plants that birds love. Yet, I haven't done a blessed thing to make it happen. But if you intend to plant shrubs, November is prime time to get out the shovel.

Several times over the years, I've mentioned a plant I absolutely adore that popped up in a flowerbed soon after we moved here and has put smiles on my face every year since. My mystery plant, I call it.

Heavens to Betsy. All these plants and nowhere to put them. Every year, I swear I won't let but a couple come in from the cold, but first thing you know the darn things have talked their way inside. Don't they realize I'm slap out of room?

Some things you don't forget. Like having an ordinary lunch on an ordinary summer day when Matt, eyes wide, dropped his fork with a clang, pointed to the vicinity of our bird feeders and stammered, “Wh-a-a-t's t-h-hat?”

How long has it been since you've had a serious talk with your houseplants? I'm often guilty of neglecting to do so until company is coming or we're having folks over for dinner or a plant just up and kicks the bucket.

In case you haven't heard, it's official now. We're having another drought. Nobody should have to tell you it's dry around here. If you doubt my word, quit watering your pansies or try to dig a hole or pull up some weeds.