It really is this year! Changes in the garden are everywhere. We are running about a month ahead of the usual gardening time table. I'm already cutting things back and down and pulling out some things. But, as you say, I'm seeing what can take a lickin' and keep on tickin' here. Next year I'm planting more Hardy Hibs and other flowering shrubs and trees ... and a lot more ornamental grasses. I just can't see trying to beat Mother Nature at her own game. She holds all the cards.
Crepe Myrtle is still a reliable bloomer in hot, humid weather with lack of rainfall.