So I am nine months pregnant. Four days past my due date and have gained XX pounds (Not everything requires full disclosure).

I write about Metro for The Washington Post so riding trains and buses is a huge part of my job and it’s how I generally get around town.

But being pregnant has given me a different perspective, especially when it comes to who gives up their seat when they see a rather large, obviously pregnant lady lumbering into a train car.

For basil, it likes hot, sunny and apparently humidity, grows like madfire. Don’t overwater but don’t neglect it in terms of watering either. Don’t let the roots sit in water because your basil will go the way of death. If you keep it outside, you might have to protect it from critters. Heaven only knows what has been chowing on my basil leaves. Somebody is enjoying the basil and it hasn’t been me.

I have noticed that the aphids on my roses are less bad this year. Weird! but no other unusual bug activity.