Hot spots

"Ten on that side, and eleven on the other," Robert said. "You've got to get a picture."

It's true -- the hibiscuses on either side of the gate are going wild again, so apparently our frontal attack on pink hibiscus mealybug is bearing flowers, if not fruit.

Our current cold snap -- overnight lows near 60, daytime highs not even at 70 -- has everyone here breaking out sweaters and sweats; but considering the conditions elsewhere, we're not complaining too much.

Besides, the chill apparently extends a hibiscus' one-day bloom to a two-day stay.

It's also a great excuse to make chili, which I threw together for Harrell and Barry last night. Hot and delicious -- with poached pears and zabaglione for dessert.