Interesting day.

Washed and waxed Toyota for KM's imminent visit on Friday.

Decided to finally construct couple of Winogradsky Columns. (Best described as "an enclosed self-sustaining microbial system.) Here's what they look like:

Cost was very reasonable: Plaster of Paris ($7.43), Calcium carbonate (garden lime) ($3.78), vases ($6.00).

Also need pond/stream water and mud.

Assembled tools (bucket, shovel, machete for the undergrowth, empty gallon jug, gloves.)

Went across the street to swamp area only to find that it was completely dry. Drove to nearby town where I knew there was a large pond. Parked car at wide bend in the road and hopped road guard fence. Gathered material, then promptly fell into the pond.

So much for white socks. Don't even want to put smelly mud socks into washing machine. Trashed.

Made two columns and set them into kitchen window to grow.

Consoled myself by buying new winter jacket from Duluth Trading. Love their clothes.