Today’s title comes from a line in an old gospel hymn by Thomas Dorsey, “Take My Hand, Precious Lord.” The lyrics say:

Precious Lord, take my hand

Lead me on. Let me stand.

I am tired. I am weak. I am worn.

Through the storm, through the night,

Lead me on by the light.

Take my hand, precious Lord.

Lead me home.

That’s the sentiment I see in most areas of my garden. Most annuals are tired and look washed out from the rain and hot sun. Due to my neglect, the weeds and thorns have taken over some of the beds. So whereas a couple of months ago we saw a riot of color and voluptuous blossoms, many summer bloomers seem worn out and spent.

Several varieties of phlox show their occasional color. Salvia, ageratum, coneflowers, and gaillardia are still blooming weakly.

The main event is in the beds filled with tropical gingers. As late bloomers, they love the damp heat and are just now showing their stuff.

Hidden ginger is almost past its peak, but you can still see the white inflorescence under the giant tropical leaves.

Tall Butterfly gingers are looking healthy and are just now starting to bloom.

The Shampoo/Pinecone gingers have produced more “pinecones” than ever. They are still green but will turn bright red in the fall.

When the mornings get a little cooler, I’ll get back out there and start cleaning the beds. There’s a lot to do, but I don’t care for now. My focus has shifted to inside tasks. I’d rather do puzzles and clean out closets. I, too, am a bit tired, weak, and worn.

I always feel a re-charge in the fall, but in the meantime, there’s August.

Peace to you, Dottie