Regrettably, it came down to the 8th inning and the goathead weeds pulled ahead so much they won the game for this year. I had cleared time for a big push after the next rains, but the wheelbarrow tire went flat---why on earth do they even sell barrows with pneumatic tires in thorn, spine, and burr country like this? Tried working without the barrow but winds were so high it was tough dragging bag and box around and extra work to keep the weeds from blowing out. Took a trip to town with wheel and axle in hand, thought I secured the only suitable replacement, but no, when set on barrow handles, the spacing was 1/2" too wide for the old bolts. (also can't believe there are no 'standard' wheels on such an ancient design).

Tried to drill new holes but had no bit wide enough and wallowing did not work on the center part of the run. Got a spade bit when next in town, only to find the new holes created a new problem. Kind neighbor jumped in and cut a bit off of the axle holders and put things back in order with the new no-air wheel.

Then it rained again. Another couple sessions of weeding and a walk around the grounds convinced me that it had become hopeless. Had I known my guest was coming, I might have chosen an area to clear, but I was not given notice til I was otherwise occupied.   It's okay, I put her close to the house, and luckily she has no pet to protect.

It's Halloween week, will spend time at some fun events, a field trip, and other projects instead of stressing over the vegetation. Hopefully winter winds will blow a lot of the seeds away, if not I'll consider the shag-dragging solution. My vinegar sprayer is mounted on a handcart ready to attack in the spring. I suppose I should rinse out the handle and hose before calling it a day.