141018 - Cosmos

While the drought intensifies, I use a relay system of kitchen pots and pans to capture grey water (e.g., the water pasta was boiled in) and transfer it to the front gardens between the garage doors.

I grew these cosmos from seed and am happy they are nearly three feet by three feet as they now bloom.

1408 - Cactus

In Vallejo, California, Phil's friend pruned a cactus more than thirty feet tall. He brought home the "cuttings," all of which were at least four feet in length.

We were lucky to receive two. They bloomed almost immediately.

This is the second bloom cycle this year. The flowers are almost as big as my hand, smell like peanut butter and open for only one night.

140102 - Toe

Yesterday, I took a break at the top of the steps in the backyard, and Toe sat down beside me.

I was surprised she let me take her photograph, since she usually runs in terror the second I hold up the camera.

140101 - Cabbage Poppies

A cabbage poppy has bloomed among the sweet peas now flowering beside the garage doors.

Each flower is about as big as your hands cupped together to catch water.

140101 - Sweet Peas

Our mild, sunny fall encouraged sweet peas to grow alongside the garage doors. The plants are about six feet tall and covered in very fragrant blooms.

This is the earliest these flowers have bloomed since we moved into this house seven years ago.