The difference between the Wildflower Meadow and a real vacant lot is that the Meadow is carefully tended, and planted with selected native plants. Left alone, invasives like the Paulownia would take over. Growing under the eaves of my favorite Elm (above), I’m a little worried about that tree. I’ve heard some gossip about the authorities removing it. But that’s what they said about Columbus.




Immersed in the Meadow, one could almost forget about the collision between Worlds; Old and New may be hid at close quarters among the high grasses. But step back, and the limits of the Meadow are evident; a sharp division drawn between its rank sprawl and the manicured lawn. It’s the edge of a World, and if I were Columbus, I’d sail right over, without fear of falling, for it is anything but vacant.