It's been a banner year for lupine here in Malibu, where sprays of purple play against the gold of mustard and oxalis. Look closely, though, and you'll see that foxtails, all feathery and green, have also had a good spring.

Since we can't keep the dogs out of the hills, where those foxtails so easily find their way into a canine ear or nose, which means a visit to their favorite guy, Dr. Dean at the Malibu Coast Animal Hospital, which means writing a check, it's probably time for Maisie to put on her business suit and find a job.