The slow, gradual transition to Autumn down here in the South could be the perfect metaphor for the plodding, reluctant pace of change here and in much of the nation right now.  But enough said on that.  It’s too unspeakable.

As I wrote this, I witnessed not one but two Monarch butterflies feeding on the pink cosmos outside my office window!  This may seem routine to more established native gardeners, but I’m excited to have finally attracted some to my plantings, before they migrate farther south.  Some progress is being made.  Oh, to have a good camera with a zoom lens!

Typical for Fall in TN, it’s a warm, sunny day, heading back up into the 70s by tomorrow.  Leaves are taking their good old time changing down here in the lowlands, while new flowers and veggies persist.

In the interests of full disclosure, some of the following ornamental plants are non-natives that were here before us.  I don’t encourage planting them, as they don’t improve the environment, and in some cases do great harm to its balance.  But our landscape is so sparse as it is, I try to find beauty any place I can.

Last but not least, this has to be the most decadent, chill kitty I’ve been privileged to host.  It doesn’t get more relaxed than this.