Under the Solano Sun

Yeech! Who threw up in my front yard? A gooey flat yellow blob of something lay on the ground in front of my house. Hmm, it didn't seem to smell but what was it and who got sick? I scraped it up and immediately threw it in the garbage bin.

I have long been a fan of Hot Poker, Kniphofia uvaria. I love their tall, dramatic structural presence in the garden. They are low maintenance, as well, which is a huge plus. Because of their height, three to six feet tall, they are generally planted towards the back of the garden bed.

I can't help it. I get hungry (and impatient) for the sweet taste of fresh tomatoes especially after the last one is plucked from my backyard garden in the fall. So, I did it again.

I am a frequent flier at UC Davis. My husband and I have walked our dogs the entire length of the arboretum once or twice weekly for over twenty years.

You're on JEOPARDY! It's the final question, and you've bet all your winnings. Quick! Here's your final JEOPARDY! answer. This spice is common to Ethiopian, Thai, Spanish, Indian, Mexican, and Greek cuisine. Do-de-do-duh DO. DO. DUH. Time is up.