Things got a bit wild at my recent book signing at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center's Fall Plant Festival. Actually, that's not true at all. But it certainly was an entertaining experience and a good way to mingle with readers while promoting my book.

While whiling away some time at the Wildflower Center, I was reminded about the site's genuine natural appeal. Although it springs to life primarily from March--May, I found that autumn offered a nice change of scenery, in a subdued yet welcoming way. This season, the Center has been educating people about native fall plants with distinctive aromas, including local varieties such as chocolate daisies, daturas, and shrubby bonesets. It's worth making a trip to the Wildflower Center just to get a whiff!