def parse_cron_options(argstring):
    """
    Parse periodic task options.
    Obtains configuration value, returns dictionary.

    Example::

        my_periodic_task = 60; now=true

    Respective "argstring"::

        60; now=true

    """
    parts = argstring.split(';')
    options = {'interval': float(parts[0].strip())}
    for part in parts[1:]:
        name, value = part.split('=')
        options[name.strip()] = value.strip()
    return options
