Hi This year I decided to put in mine Castor Beans, Firecracker Sunflowers and Nasturtiums. I planted from seed right into the barrel. I will see how it turns out. Last year, I put in Castor Bean, yellow and burgundy potato vines, some type of floppy grass and nasturtium. It looked alright but probably would have looked better if I had fertilized regularly. Cannas with marigolds look nice too. I hope this gives you a couple of ideas. Danni

FYI. Neil has worked at this Walmart for almost 5 years. This past spring they built a "Super Walmart" to replace the regular one. Neil was instrumental in making it a more handicap accessible place. For example: Neil was involved with decisions regarding aisle width, doors, extra handicap carts, floor textures, and 'family restrooms' (where a parent may take a child of the opposite sex in, regardless of age) in addition to "men's" and "women's". These changes are evident in public spaces as well as behind the scenes in the back rooms. I don't even want to get into Walmart's abominable reputation, but maybe this once they did OK. We may look at this as using the token handicapped kid, but Neil and his mom Lori are outspoken advocates for equal access! Lori told me one of her biggest peeves is people that park so close to handicap slots that you can't operate the wheel chair lift out the side of the van. She usually waits a few minutes, then calls the local police, has the people paged if possible, and (ya gotta know her, she's one caring mother. And while she doesn't WANT to make trouble for anyone...) in no uncertain terms explains the complications their inconsiderate behavior is causing. :) I think I saw it best when Neil, Merlin and I visited his Walmart for the first time during training. We manuvered around the store and bought a few things, and then went into the back to see if his boss was around...within 2 minutes we were surrounded by 15 of his co-workers, all congratulating him, wishing him luck and bombarding him with questions! No offense, but god I love small town living! PS: Neil and Merlin made the front page of the Starbuck Times this week! and PSS: Next time you're walking through the clothes racks at Herbergers or JC Pennys, or K-Mart or whatever, try to imagine yourself in a wheel chair with a service dog beside you...wanna knock some clothes on the floor? I truely have a whole new appreciation for my ability to walk on my own 2 feet. Sarah -- And now I really will quit the sermon :) Here is a link that might be useful: Starbuck Times

jspeachyn5, I used to envy her zone 10 until I realized there are a lot of things she can't grow that I can, things that require cold. Many spring bulbs (we get bigger tulips), cherries, apples, etc. She can't grow greens except in winter because it's too warm, forget about kale or carrots. But yeah, this time of year when she calls me up to tell me about harvesting fresh strawberries in 70 degree weather? Zone envy big time! I haven't exactly converted my husband but he is an enabler. Yesterday he came home with a clear milk jug and a 2-liter he'd nicked out of a neighbor's recycling bin. I have, however, completely corrupted my kids (ages 5 and 2 1/2). They have their own boxes of seeds which Mommy has made a solemn vow not to raid. :) My daughter now checks every container to see if it's good for winter sowing!

Thank y'all. It seems impossible that she is grown and has a family. Boy do things change. She asked for a jogging stroller for her birthday. A couple years ago she would have thought was a lame request. LOL