Some of the beautiful yellow blooms are withering and falling from the alleged pumpkin plant. When the bloom drops, a stalk is left, and at the base of the stalk I see little buds I am hoping are the beginnings of pumpkins. I further hope these nubs grow into pumpkins at least the size of a golf ball before winter or I am in a world of hurt. I am going to be out a few pumpkin pies!

For readers who just tuned in, this gorgeous plant, now approaching seven feet in length, sprouted unannounced and without care near the spot we carved jack-o-lanterns one year ago. Though we thought we had disposed of all pumpkin guts, including the seeds, apparently one seed would not be so easily dismissed.

Another interesting note is that this plant has situated itself not far from our clothes dryer vent, which emits warm air for at least one hour four to six days per week. That is one smart plant if the warmth from the dryer vent will actually prevent freezing and extend its fruit-bearing potential.

I'm counting on you experts out there. Are these little buds at the base of the stalk that held the flower the beginning of fruit? Are those of you who took the pumpkin pie wager starting to get a little nervous?

Go, pumpkin plant, go!