Sherry, my MJP is doing very well. She's still small, and I've had only one bloom from her, but it was lovely. Cream and apricot and pink all washed together. She seems quite healthy and is currently putting out new growth - I think she is just a quiet little aristocrat who doesn't take giant strides, just little dainty steps. Another small rose that I got even later last year is really leaping ahead, and has given two flushes already (only two blooms each flush, though!). But I don't hold that against MJP - they are just different from each other. I am also facing the problem of less sun this year (the trees have grown), so I have been moving them all around for maximum exposure. Also I'm repotting the ones most in need of it, one at a time (I'm not known for my stamina), and this has helped the ones that have been done. In the ground is not an option for me, but it sure sounds like it helps! Your SdEV is exquisite. Laura

Thanks for all your input! I'm guessing by "desired area" they are also talking about supply/demand. There is one post office in my city. There is a UPS Store right down the main highway in the next big city, but that does not interest us. @OllieJane my husband also has a business, but honestly, we don't receive a lot of mail for that. The business reports, taxes, etc. are all set up online, so at least I don't have to worry about that. @Oakley if there was ice that bad, we would not be concerned with mail. Someone mentioned the "informed delivery" which is where you get an email showing you what is in your mailbox that day. I do use that. We have a regular size po box but our po either puts packages in a locker (leaves key in your box), or holds behind counter for you. That is probably what I will miss the most because I order everything I can on line. I hate shopping!! The po folks get a laugh out of my deliveries. Last week it was a box of Charmin! Imagine the laughs from that. haha!! So yes, our mailman will get alot of thank-yous and treats/gifts. We bought a larger size mailbox that will hold some items I order but other items he will bring to the house. He's a very nice man (we have met him). We have a long, somewhat steep driveway (we overlook our little city) so I hate that part for him - but we have a turn-around and I'm sure he is used to that and much worse. For the few checks we write/mail, we will mail those at the post office. We will get used to it, I'm sure! Thanks for your input.

I think I saw it in the garden I visited Thursday. My friend said it was a cabbage rose she had bought from Monticello some years ago, but I believe it is Elegant Gallica because it has spread over a large area and it is available from Monticello. I am planning to get suckers, but it might be best to wait until fall. I don't like to dig roses this time of year. Lindsey

I may just do that. I am bored and sick and tired. :( Lucille, the place is a lovely resort/ town and their Arts Institute (funded by a mandatory assessment on all homeowners!) is hosting this first ever event. There will be a multicourse dinner at a very, very nice restaurant, the party/ mystery, and afterwards we will change into casual wear for a bonfire, smores and cocoa or warm adult beverages. Breakfast the next morning and then away. I am going with a dear friend I haven’t seen in several months. Ironically we were both in the Netherlands at the same time but DH and I were on a boat and he was in a bike trip. His schedule is very busy and we are carving out this time to carch up.