New Life

Yesterday we went on a creek walk. The vegetation on the banks had been mown, so Folsom could scamper along without sweeping up too many burrs. Excessive rain this year has not exactly kept the slopes moist, but at least they are not cracking, bone dry like last summer. Nevertheless, David held my hand as I cautiously tip-toed toward the limestone-lined creekbed. At almost six-months pregnant, I'm somewhat agility-challenged.

The creek was green and stagnant. Something was obstructing its flow. David located a small rise of silt deposition stretching from one side of the creek to the other. It was only an inch, maybe an inch-and-a-half in height -- just enough to dam up the water. He grabbed a limb and began scraping the ground from side-to-side. Soon the water began to flow again. There was movement again.

On the opposite bank he noticed Frostweed (Verbesina virginica.) If you don't know it, Frostweed's white blooms emit a heavenly fragrance. It will do well in sun or partial shade, almost too well. In suburban residences, one plant will suffice, as it easily reseeds. Frostweed is a versatile native that helps to restore habitat.

We also found a species of Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan also belongs to this genus.) I know we have the complete common and botanical names stored around here somewhere, and I'm sure I'll find it as I continue working on the new website. On our next walk, I will make sure to get pics and will confirm the Rudbeckia info.

Speaking of the new website...

The new layout and overall vibe have inspired me. We are distancing ourselves from the boxy look -- previous versions of our site have been too angular for my taste. The new 'site has more dimensions, more pics, and, well, more logical organization. It represents who we are as people, business owners and artists. Because, after all, we are in the business of knowledge and creativity, not landscape. The new 'site will help to identify us as designers, writers and public speakers, rather than landscapers or contractors.