This is the first of the Bristly Sunflowers to appear by the creek - their leaves and stems are quite hairy and rough feeling. Like the interesting center.
I will be gone for 4 days (first trip in several years - since my husband's stroke) to a wedding in Missouri. I've shot ahead so hope to be posting daily - not so sure of being able to comment, but will try to catch up when we return.
Enjoy your holiday, it sounds like you deserve one!