Bethany University head volleyball coach Reed Duffus has trouble containing his smile as he talks about his women’s volleyball team.

The San Lorenzo Valley Cougars and Scotts Valley Falcons opened the high school football season over the weekend with a taste of live action. The scrimmage — meaningless in the standings — was a warm-up for the first game of the season.

I have hundreds of plants in containers — 295 at last count. You'd be amazed how many pots you can squeeze on a wrap-around deck, including the railings! Some of my favorites are those that house my succulent collection. I've come to think of them as pets as they grow over the years. They are tough, resilient and beautiful.