There's nothing like home-related matters to take my mind off climate change--which I am obsessing about nearly nonstop. More on gardens and stuff below. For those of you following Moms Clean Air Force, I'm pleased to tell you we now have half a million members, and we're just wrapping up summits in state capitols around the country. And we now have an official ice cream: Ben and Jerry's Save Our Swirled. Need I say more?

Yes. If you haven't already, tell your senator to protect America's Clean Power Plan. Right now it is the only thing going in D.C. to cut carbon emissions and address greenhouse gas pollution.

However, that doesn't mean I can't find time to look at gardening books; one of my favorite assignments is a seasonal roundup for the New York Times. Ever since I read the book about bugs, I have an entirely new appreciation for the tiniest creatures in what passes for my garden. Barely.

I also got a rant on about what some people might call clutter, but I call treasure. I'm for divestment of fossil fuel stocks--but not divestment of those beloved possessions with which we line our nests. I'm done with guilt about stuff. Hope you enjoy.