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This week the first shades of purple began appearing on the gayfeather. Since I haven’t mowed the north end there is quite a bit of it outside of the front yard so it should put on quite a show over the next few weeks. Other than cutting them back in winter before their seeds scatter everywhere, the gayfeather requires no other maintenance, not even water. Even in dry times like we have now it grows pretty and green, then puts on a purple show in late summer. It isn’t aggressive about seeding itself. I don’t see it in the nurseries but for my money it is hard to beat as an ornamental plant.
After 21 years I am parting ways with ICS at the end of the month. I will devote my time to Rakeeter Enterprises, tax avoidance and my duties as head grounds keeper for an exclusive gated community. I will have plenty to do. Joyce, bless her, doesn’t seem dismayed by the prospect of twice as much husband on half as much money, as the saying goes, which is just further evidence I married well.
Rebecca came by Wednesday evening. Her mom and sister were off somewhere and she was at loose ends. She wanted to do some gambling so we went down to the cave and played 21. She did pretty well at in spite of not being able to add. She is able to count and quickly got the hang of counting up the value of her cards. That slowed things down a little but we still had a good time. She should be ready for Vegas in a couple of years.
Abigail is playing softball (fast pitch) with a club team. At least I think it’s a club team. Anyway, they’ve been practicing this week. I don’t know anything about when she’ll play games but assume I’ll be apprised at some point. Abigail went to a softball camp the early part of the summer and really enjoyed the game. Kari has steered clear of the club leagues because they are so time consuming and was hoping this one wouldn’t be too intense. We’ll see.