April 25, and it's pretty hot out there today in Edgecliff Village, Texas. In the 80s. Bobert, I'm pleased to tell you that this morning not only did my lawnmower tune-up go quickly, it was also easy. I had to replace the blade instead of sharpening it, because last week out behind the garage I bent the blade badly when I hit the heavy iron rod that had been part of the previous owner's earlier garage door opener. It was buried in the grass out beside the garage. . . "clunk" sudden silence. . . were heard in quick succession when blade met iron. I bought a replacement that actually is meant to bend if it hits something. The premium blade is only a buck more, but better a bent blade than a bent shaft!

I poured out the gas (was able to reuse it, minus a little residue that may have come off of the lid) and I drained the oil and changed it. Now I'm in the house cooling off for a few minutes and giving the grackles full access to the field of naked bugs now that their cover is blown. I have my tankard of ice water and I'm heading out to finish the back then go around to the front.

Blooming now: salvia, still, greggi and the Victoria variety (blue) plus a pretty white one that looks like a smaller version of Victoria. Iris and daffodils are about finished. Red yucca, lantana, several sorts, verbena, are blooming. Honeysuckle out back on the creek bank smells like heaven. Onions about ready to pick, tomatoes are putting out blossoms. I even put some tomatoes and cages out in the front yard this year. I find vegetable gardening so entertaining that I may well put some eggplant and peppers out there too, just for the looks.

SRS