As Long As There Are Dogs

We have had four full fall seasons since we began our effort of building a Memorial Garden for the dogs and volunteers to enjoy. The garden continues to evolve as foundation plants mature, and the more temperamental succumb to our ongoing drought.

Season One was full of overflowing Zinnia’s and Dahlias.

Season Two was the year of Rudbeckia, huge Mexican Sages and gigantic mums.

Season Three delivered towering Sunflowers and Amaranthus.

Missing this year altogether are the Dahlias, Amaranthus and beautiful purple Basil which never took hold. The Rudbeckia and Zinnias passed through half-heartedly; the Mexican Sage, herb garden and mums are but a shadow of their former selves.

“Despite the gardener’s best intentions, Nature will improvise.” ~Michael P. Garofalo

Still, we have some constants: the roses,

Ina’s magnificent Asters with divides now populating the entire garden,

our faithful Yarrow,

flowing Fountain Grass which somehow survived the winter,

the return of tiny frogs,

Maria’s harvest-inspired decorations…

And dogs. Always dogs.

Going home this weekend: Jenny,

Ginger,

and Marley.

As long as there are dogs that need to go home, there will be a fall garden at Homeward Bound –

in one form or another.