Ogrose, That is so terrible for you to lose so much , i wish you could have some of mine that seem to be ok in Idaho so far. I still watch over them expecting someday I might be faced with the same fate. I was thinking to scale back the roses a bit and choose some other kinds of plants so that if my roses get hit I would not take it so hard. In Spring I want to plant pink flamingo colored huge ruffley poppies on a long stilt stem, and the giant white columbines at the garden center were breathtakingly beautiful. Over last summer I actually downscaled from 13 roses to just 5 of my favorite, giving my friends what they wanted. As I get older, stiffer and wrinklier every day it reminds me to prioritize what matters most, what I can and can't live without. My son's dear dog Chef was very sick for a few days and then yesterday morning he found old Chef dead. I cried all day yesterday, but today am looking forward to Spring again, planning my garden and a pretty grave for Chef. That is the great thing about rose gardening, the HOPE. Linda

I also KNOW the feeling. When I worked ... I had time for nothing. I worked, we needed the money --- but I felt trapped. I found out that some people have so much energy - they can do both - work & do crafts. I can't. But like you .... my stash was precious to me. I KNEW some day ... I'd be able to get at it. It's even better if you save the surprise !!!! You aren't alone ..... especially in the shaving area ... the only reason I'd raise my arms is if someone was giving away free plates -- I'd wave saying " PICK ME " !!! Does that tell you what part of my body is neglected ??? LOL Join the club --- we're all alike . (( Wuvie)) !!!

Dave, our weather has been very similar. Flowering trees are way past prime. Daylilies are full up. Check for vole holes... if voles are getting them there is a castor oil product that is dry granules...sold as mole deterrent, but it gets the voles too. They just leave and stay gone for a long time.

Glenda, you look great and I love how your son is cuddling up to you and also how you didn't let the fender bender get the best of you. You make each day a masterpiece. Frame that picture girl.