The time I spend in the community garden is a pleasure. Most of the other tillers come on different schedules so it is sometimes just me and the birds. The lettuces keep coming back no matter how often I cut them for lunch, and the potato plants are dark green. Carrot tops are springing up both where we planted them and places they traveled to when I wasn't looking. It is hard to keep from picking them but I feel sure they need more time. 

Weeding is a way to encourage the plants. They are grateful for the elbow room. My intention is to pull weeds up by the roots but sometimes they are stubborn and I am left with only the top in my dirty hands. Probably that one, the one that got away from me, will be back again in a week. 

There are little corn stalks just poking out of the soil. They are beautiful. The anticipation of fresh corn keeps me focused when I point the hose at them. Plenty of water now,  yellow ears in July. The tomato cages seem ridiculously large for the modest plants now but hope tells me that they will need the support when they are heavy with beefsteaks. 

I notice that when John and I are in a group of friends, it is easier to avoid being rude. But when we are alone, I have been known to say a snarky remark. Being kind when there are witnesses is like taking out weeds but leaving the dark roots. The root of unkindness is contempt, and if I leave that in the ground of me it will sure as shooting come back when company leaves.