Over 100 and still counting
Earlier in the month I reported that I was almost done with planting perennials and annuals in my yard. At that time, the count was over 80. It's now up to over 100.
This is a direct result of my Saturday morning trips to the Farmer's Market in the Court Avenue district of downtown Des Moines. I have discovered a particular vendor who sells 4" pots of perennials and annuals for $2.00 each! Tell me, how can a gardener pass this up?
Each weekend I find myself coming home with 4-5 more plants. The landscaped area in my front yard is filling up nicely. And, it's hard to believe that I am running out of room (it is a big area).
After having such a dry June, it's been raining a lot this weekend. Seems to start up every time I plan to go outside and plant my flowers. No complaints--rain is good for the lawn.
A Prairie Home Companion
I read
Lake Wobegon Days back when I was in college. There was something about the book that struck a chord with me. (Perhaps because I grew up in the Midwest and was raised Lutheran.)
Last summer,
A Prairie Home Companion was broadcast from the
Iowa State Fair. My sister bought tickets as a birthday present for me. It was great to see this show that I had listened to for many years performed live.
When I heard that Robert Altman was directing and producing a movie based on the radio show, I was intrigued. The cast is stellar. Surprisingly, the movie lived up to my expectations. It was well-written, completely entertaining and well-directed. I had never been much for the Guy Noir character. But, Kevin Kline's performance of this character was genius. Made me see Guy in a whole other light. Meryl Streep, Lily Tomlin, Woody Harrelson and John C. Reilly did a great job as well.
Not sure if someone unfamiliar with A Prairie Home Companion would enjoy the movie. But, if you are a fan, I would definitely recommend seeing it.
Hmmmmmm.......
This was in my horoscope today:
"The universe is trying to distract you from a beautiful surprise."
Nishiki Willow
Today I finally set my mind to digging a hole on the south side of my porch near the steps. My original plan was to plant a hollyberry bush. However, as I was digging, I realized that the soil is moist and wasn't sure the hollyberry was a good idea. (It was wise that I hadn't purchased one.)
So, with a hole that was large enough and the right distance from porch and steps, I set off to Earle May to buy a bush.
I searched out Gary (the manager) for some shrub advice and my suspicions where confirmed that the hollyberry bush was not the best choice. Instead, Gary showed me a
Nishiki Willow and I decided to go for it.
When I got the shrub home, I realized that the hole I dug was too small and close to the house for this new shrub.
After a few futile attemps at digging more, I decided to call my friend Chris M. (not to be confused with Chris C, or Iowa City Chris). Fortunately, he was in the neighborhood. I am always amazed at how men can get these things done in...say 10-15 minutes that would take me much longer.
It felt great looking at my new Nishiki Willow shrub in a space that earlier had been empty and covered with rocks. I sure hope it takes.
Gardening Report
I am happy to report that I'm mostly done with planting things in my yard. So far I have planted a little over 80 perennials and annuals. Most of which were in a newly landscaped portion of my front yard.
Now, I am watching things grow and a few things not grow.
I also dug up several clusters of hostas that appear to have doubled since last year. These have been redistributed in my yard and also given to co-workers and the neighborwith whom I share a driveway.
Still want to plant a hollyberry bush near my front porch.
Just writing about this makes me feel tired.
Good night.
