Chicory, Cichorium Intybus

Day 300: Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is an introduced species in North America and is considered invasive in some areas, it has not achieved a strong hold in western Washington and therefore has avoided being placed on the "hit list" of undesirable aliens. That means I can enjoy the cheer of its sky-blue flowers without any pangs of conscience, although I probably won't invite it into my yard. It can grow to four feet in height and prefers the disturbed, generally poor soils of playgrounds and vacant lots. The root can be roasted and used as a substitute for coffee, although taken straight, it is rather bitter.

Be Bolder

Day 42: I visited a couple of old friends today, and as conversations with old friends often do, our discussion turned to life philosophies. Since they seemed to be well-grounded and both hold positions of some prominence in the local community, I asked them to share the secret of their success. I thought I would share their wisdom with you, my dear readers.