Good Sunday morning friends. I was going to write a serious post on a subject that's been on my mind a lot lately, but I think I'll save it for another day. I need to lighten up a little.

Weatherwise, it's pretty much the same, day after day. NO RAIN! Amazing stretch of dry weather--a virtual drought. I told you I finally dug my sweet potatoes and broke my digging fork in the hardpan? It was brutal. I've had less than an inch of rain since July 1. That's neary four months.

I took a walk in the nature preserve behind my house (half mile away) yesterday. It's always damp in there, but not now. But it was a nice walk. I saw some good firewood along the edge, so I returned in my truck, crossing the bean field stubble, to cut it up and haul home. It's like picking raspberries: I can't seem to quit. But if we ever do get some rain, I won't be able to get back there (I've gotten stuck before).

I've been raking pine needles (plus leaves) for several days, saving them up for ground cover in the Spring when I plant grass over my new septic field. I also add pine straw to my garden to bring up the acidity (pH), since my soil is too alkaline.

Speaking of the garden, we had a heavy frost the other night, which pretty much killed off my remaining tomato plants and winter squash. I covered some of the better plants with sheets, but the rest are goners. Luckily, frost doesn't hurt brocoli or Brussels sprouts (or beets and carrots). And frost is good for persimmons which I have and love. So my freezer is jammed packed, my fruit cellar loaded with hanging sacks of potatoes and onions, apples and pears. Bring it on, old man Winter!

I'm taking the day off from work (although I'll go running, but that's not work). Sister and I are headed down to see my daughter and son this PM. Sorry I haven't read many posts lately. Just too busy. I keep waiting for a rainy day!