I was wondering something similar but due to some compost volunteers that got a late (July/ August.) start. I have some (I think acorn or butternut) squash plants that are doing very well but started months later than would've been ideal. Should I just let nature take its course, see what happens and possibly end up with "baby squashes" or rather than possibly have many immature fruit at the end of the season, are there actions I can take (snipping the terminal to prevent growth of a lengthy vine, pinch off additonal new blossoms, etc.) that might result in having fewer but, at least, some mature edible fruits.

It's Lifeline, Janet. There is a national organization, but it's also local. When we test Mother's, the person who answers is in a national call center. If there is a problem, they have numbers to call. In Mother's case, it's the front desk at her complex, where she has assisted living services. If Mother were not there, they would probably call the local hospital or EMT or whatever is available in the area. We pay $37/month directly to the Hospital's volunteer Guild, who runs the local program. In short, you need to call the local hospital nearest to your Mother in Iowa. They'll know! There may be another system besides Lifeline, but it will be administered by your local hospital. Isn't it a worry to be so far away? I understand that! Here is a link that might be useful: Lifeline

Melissa, I always enjoy reading your down-to-earth, heart of the matter posts. Words from a well-balanced pessimist who offers a good dose of straight up realism :-) I celebrate your many blessings, and I will be holding your husband in my thoughts as he continues his medical procedures. My collie sends healing thoughts to your cat, and we both send our deepest sympathy for the loss of your beloved dog. Grief takes its own time. I am already asking the universe to send regular and manageable doses of rain to your region in 2018, preferably accompanied by cool breezes carrying the fragrance of wisteria, honeysuckle and roses. Noseometer, you just gave me the best medicine. I laughed out loud with our shared experiences of awful ways of making a living and awful ways of keeping our health! Congratulations on jettisoning your "soul-sucking torture pit job"! That is truly cause for celebration, and your description is so spot on. I joined the 2017 colonoscopy club alongside you and Virginia (minus the allergic reaction to mango juice, thankfully). On a heartfelt and serious side, I send my sympathy and empathy to you both regarding the loss of your fathers. Mine passed in 2016. Valerie, it's a privilege to get my knees and fingernails dirty alongside you on the forum! My voice joins all of yours in a demand for immediate and worldwide recognition of the need for serious, intentional environmental research and protection. Carol

This is an example of teals: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/find-your-color/color-a-room/1746/living-room-7?q=teal&category=color&start=11&color=649&combination=OC-46,OC-46,OC-46&room=1746 I think a melon color would look good: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/find-your-color/color-a-room/1746/living-room-7?q=melon&category=color&color=2033-70&combination=OC-46,OC-46,OC-46&room=1746 I think even some of these darker reds look good with a dark floor: https://www.benjaminmoore.com/en-us/color-overview/find-your-color/color-a-room/1746/living-room-7?q=red&category=color&start=11&color=CSP-1170&combination=OC-46,OC-46,OC-46&room=1746 I hope these ideas helped