Shouldn't…but Do

It is hot.  Clouds in the west hint of  thunderstorm, wind over the lake promises humidity instead.

Sweat rolls down my face like tears.  Hardscrabble ground.  Years I spent piling up a  rich facade of compost and nutrient rich top soil washed away in heavy spring rains – revealing original ground.  Rock pocked sandy loam.   What’s here is here.  Up to me to make something of it.  Tough to hoe, even on the level.

For a number of years I have been cultivating a xeric attitude.  Plant for true ground,  right plant – right place, forget fancy stuff that does not endure.    Use resources at hand instead of cultivating landscapes of falsity.  Survival, adaptability, matters.

Except a bit of  lawn.  Rolling green soothes eye and toe.  Mine got away from me last year, weeds smothered.  Weeds returned this year, but I am back.  Persistent toil – holding steady.

Those that know me understand my fondness for garden photography.  My way of giving garden tours that none see in person.  This is not a year for pictures, vignettes – some empty – some still filling with young plants, new ideas.

Sweat equity – heat, work and true ground.