(((Chelone))) I understand what a hard, hard day this is for you and I will be thinking of you and your family. I had what I thought was a disagreeable day, but it was nothing compared to what you had to go through today. I know you did the right thing and remember we are here for you.

I've been thinking of my idyll friends all day. Last night the wind was howling like mad and my sleep was quite restless. I ended having a dream that all of you were coming here to visit again, but everyone was staying at the house and I had made no plans for what to see or where to eat or anything! One of those silly dreams that causes you to wake up more tired than when you went to sleep.

I will be scarce for the next three weeks as I have a lot of business travel coming up. January will be over before I know what happened!

Both of the kids are back at school and started class today. It does feel a but quiet in the house tonight, but Mystic does bark every once in a while to keep it lively!

Before DD left, we had one last adventure - she and I went to the opera for the very first time. We saw Die Fliedermaus at the Lyric Opera in Chicago, and it was totally wonderful. I was surprised at how funny the story was. I'm ready to try another opera sometime.

Eden, I was scanning and caught the good news about your mom. I'm so glad to hear that all was clear!

Babs, I saw your comment about handwashing. Yesterday, there were 2 third graders in my Sunday school class with bad colds. I tried really hard to not touch my face during class, and then almost ran to the bathroom to wash my hands like mad. Hopefully I've dodged this bullet. I vowed in the middle of summer that I was done being sick for 2006, and by golly I was. Now I am resolved to not get sick this winter!

Tine to prep for work tomorrow and begin to pack for the first trip. I may not check in again until the weekend.

V.

Hi Everyone , A Monday hello, and a little more affirmation for Chelone ! What's up with the glaring from Mr. Bro ? How can he possibly justify that considering what you have done these last four years ? Jeesh. You have the high ground Chelone, don't give up the ship !

Drema, sounds like you are in the midst of wallpaper removal and similar projects. I can relate ! I have three painting projects in process, all unfinished because the rain won't come and I want to go outside instead of painting inside ! All in due time.

So I'm off to read the paper ..ta' ta'

Kathy in Napa

Chelone, you've been a great daughter and your mother is lucky to have you. Your brother has no right to be angry at you; don't let him get you down.

Chelone, I don't know what I can say that hasn't been said. I do believe that your DB has some guilt feelings and that you have not a thing to be guilty about. Hugs to you and helpmeet.

The wedding was great. Drema, it was Rick's son. His youngest child. His 4 are now all married. Only my son remains. I have a lot on my plate this week, but I will get some pictures resized and posted soon.

Michelle

Chelone, I am sure it is impossible to feel good about how the situation has worked out. None of it is something you would have chosen. Not your Mom being ill or how long you have had to take care of her, or how difficult it has become. Your mother wouldn't have chosen it either. So you are both doing the best you can in a horrible situation.

I don't understand your brother's response in this situation, nor do I expect to, knowing so little about the situation. At the very least, he could have been grateful to you for all this time that you have been caring for his mother. Obviously he hasn't been able to understand the situation you have been in and from the sounds of it, he doesn't seem to feel he is in a position to take over your Mom's care. Maybe finding out first hand what taking care of her 24/7 requires might allow him to have a better understanding.

Perhaps his response has made you question whether his home will be a good environment for your Mom. It is too early to say, I would think. As gardenbug pointed out, he now has been given the opportunity, despite it being pushed upon him, to contribute to the care of his Mom and to spend time with her and give of himself. Whether he has something he can give will be the question. There is no doubt that you have given your Mom a lot to care for her for as long as you have. It sounds like you were forced to give so much of yourself that you expected too much of yourself and ignored your own needs until it began to effect your ability to care for your Mom and for yourself. Taking your Mom to your brother's may not have been the solution you would have liked, but it was the only one available to you, right now. Whether you like it or not, it is a fact of life, that we are all human and have needs and we have to take care of ourselves if we are to take care of anyone else. Right now you are in a deficit and need to catch up to get back to a place where you feel you can give again.

Nothing you have decided is written in stone. You haven't dropped your Mom off at a homeless shelter. :-) You can catch up on some well earned and much needed rest, get some stability on the job front, and regroup. You can keep an eye on your Mom's situation and visit and make sure things are working out for her. Send her some flowers if you think she could appreciate it. You haven't abandoned her. If there is any question that she is not getting the care you think she should have then hopefully you can look for other alternatives. Didn't I read that your brother was supposed to be exploring Long Term Care options or filling out paperwork or something? I don't know how far away from you your brother lives, but if things don't work out with him, and there is some financial possibility for her to go into Long Term Care, perhaps you could arrange for her to be in a facility near you, if you would prefer it that way.

But who knows, maybe DB will surprise you. Just give it some time and get some rest.

pm2

Chelone, you have done it all over and above the call of duty. I don't know of anyone who whould have done as much in such difficult circumstances. Your brother should be ashamed of himself for the way he has treated you, not just this week but throughout your years of caring for your mother. You have not done anything wrong or anthing to feel badly about. Kudos to you for all you have done, you are a very brave and caring woman. Remember that and take care of that incredible helpmeet of yours. I also don't know of any DH's who would have dealt with your situation with patience and grace as he has done. Now the two of you need to take care of each other.

Deanne

Chelone, I hope today's a better day and the start of happier times for you. I think after a little time and rest it will become clearer to you that after all you've done for your mum you have nothing to feel bad about. You've gone far beyond the call of duty and now it's your brothers turn. Don't let him bully you or make you feel guilty. I hope you'll both soon be able to get together and find a good long term solution that works for you all.

Eden

Chelone -- it's a situation that has no miracle end or perfect solution, that is the problem.... Everyone has already said what needs saying -- I personally think you've been a saint; I know I could not do what you have done as a daughter -- I try to assuage that "guilt" of my own by accepting that each of us has different limits and capabilities -- mine are not the same as yours.... I have always thought & tried to teach my own daughter that in any given situation (Life) we can only do the best we know we can do in a situation so that we know we've at least tried our very hardest - I think that's all that can be expected of anyone -- their personal "hardest efforts" -- you've way out done that I am sure.... Dear "bro" is suffering major guilt pangs -- that's apparent.

Mary -- I love that story (I've never seen it before)-- wish someone had sent that to me when my daughter was about 3 months old (& a few more times after that, LOL) -- what a mystery & wonder she was to me!

V- how horrible we came to haunt you and disturb your sleep -- I hope there was at least a lot of laughing going on in all the surprises of our "visit"!

It's chilly & back to winter here -- my hellebores are out in force as well but everything is soggy, soggy -- managed to weed for a couple hours on Saturday without slip sliding around too much; maybe it will head off a wonderful Spring crop of weeds galore.

Michelle - looking forward to seeing the pics.

Eden -- thanks for the info re the Cercis - I almost emailed you to inquire; Im eyeing there or maybe Forest Farm (they "say" they've got a 4 footer for a few more bucks) - I've gotten most of my small trees from them & been extremely happy; it's only the shipping that bulks the price up. I've gone from "o nothing interests me" to too many lists, not enough $$ or space in the garden -- ha, what's different in that, uh?

Hope everyone has a restful day.

--Cindy

Good Morning All! I cant stay, but it hurt my heart to feel Chelones anguish and I wanted to take a moment to let her know how much I have admired her strength and how often I have looked to her strength to keep me going over the rough times with my mom...and I have *not* been bearing the burden alone! Chelone...I cant say it any better than Bug. You have *no* reason to feel guilty! I have often wondered *how* you have managed to do sooo much for sooo long. Its a responsibility that would have crumbled most people...long ago. If your brother is acting upset with you, maybe its his own guilt haunting him and perhaps selfishness on his part too. Can he hire a visiting nurse to help? Does the state offer any assistance; some sort of allowance for in home care? Can you visit your mother on the week-ends or does your brother live far away? I cant think of any constructive advice to give you that I know you havent thought of yourself. You are a very competent, thoughtful human being. You have been a totally unselfish, conscientious, caring daughter and I have to repeat again, you have *no* reason to feel guilty. If your mother were able to express these thoughts herself I know she would. *Any* mother would be proud to let the whole world know what a generous, thoughtful, responsible daughter they have raised. You *and* your helpmeet have put your lives on hold long enough. Its time for your brother to step up to the plate. Hard to see now, but this may be a gift youve given your brother it cant be easy walking around with the guilt of knowing you have allowed someone else to carry a burden that you should share. Im not saying it will be easy for him, but you know, there is a gift we are given back, when we give of ourselves. Once he has had some time to adjust, maybe you can share with him the things that have made life easier for mom all the little thoughtful things you have done that brightened moms day. If you find that your brother is not up to the challenge maybe the two of you will have to find a nursing home that you both feel comfortable with. There *are* good nursing homes out there; honestly. When my DHs grandma had to move to a nursing home, we were all filled with guilt and worry. But, it turned out to be a wonderful place for grandma. She received the level of medical assistance we could never offer her at home...she developed relationships with her caregivers, received daily exercise, was involved in activities. Even if she didnt understand most of what was going on when they would go to concerts or see a play, she would remember bits and pieces and derived a lot of pleasure in relaying the experiences to us. And of course, we made sure to visit her every week. A visit from Scout was the highlight of every visit - for grandma and for all the other elderly there. It even brightened the staffs day. I bet Wrecks would be a hit! :-) Anyway, whatever the future holds Chelone, please try to be at peace. Though it may be hard for you to feel it at the moment, you need to believe what everyone is telling you here. As a daughter struggling with her own aging mother, I *am* truly humbled by your selflessness and dedication....great big hugs to you....you are in my thoughts.

P.S. Hi Guys...Hey V! ;-) I will try to come back later in the week and catch up. Hi Marian! :-) I loved all the pics of Bugs family visit; the gorgeous hellebores; Maya Angelou *and* Teddy Roosevelt; (dang Babs...I was hoping we were going to see *yew* in your bikini)...LOL! And what a treat to see Wendys "spring". Doesnt "green" just turn you on? I am seeing lots of "greening" here too, though we are to get sn*@w over the week-end. Actually, I dont mind, its a little freaky to me to have 50s in January. Does make me worry about global warming, but watched a show the other day in which they said this years unusually warm weather can be related to El Nino affects.... Anyway, am also drooling over Deannes gorgeous birds....just stunning Deanne! I was laughing at myself, because I just noticed the other day that my file folders are just crammed with your pictures...LOL! I hope you dont mind me saving them all? If we *do* move, the next house will just *have* to have a "bird gallery" and then well need to talk Deanne! :-)

Gotta go, mom has a 9:00 Drs appointment and Im not even sort of ready. TTYL! Ei

It is Tuesday, and a large red-tailed hawk was parked in our willow tree for over an hour this morning. Handsome, but such a force!

I will be knitting today, completing a blanket. And thinking gentle thoughts of Chelone, who I hope is slowly moving forward, little by little, perhaps with Rex's help at the golf course.

This month we are not only working on purchasing half a house with DD, but also getting papers in order, with the same lawyer friend: wills, health, death details. I will be relieved to have this business finalized at last. DH announced to me this morning that he wants to be bronzed like a pair of baby shoes along with his Fender guitar, then propped up in the family room. Terrific....

I hope Marian's back is slowly improving too. That was definitely a low point in my life! What a pain.

Sorry I was a nuisance V. I'll help with the plans next time I visit!
On with the day....
'bug

Birthday Alert! Sorry this is a couple days late Taryn!

Happy Birthday! I hope it was a great one!

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Eden

I am absolutely numb and shell-shocked right now. I awakened this morning after a dreadful night replete with jags of sobbing the likes of which I haven't experienced since a friend killed himself in the early '90s.. My eyes were so swollen and reddened I was unwilling to go out without sunglasses (thank heavens for the bank drive-throughs).

I didn't know what to do with myself this morning. The whole routine was GONE. I mined the catbox as usual, had a cup of coffee, and "melted down". I did laundry, stripping Mum's bed and removing the towels from her bathroom. I removed "her" chair from the dining area and it's now in her room. I couldn't even focus on tidying the house; instead, settling for watching a couple of DVDs and the then taking Wrecks out for a walk. How pathetic is that?

Haven't been able to face calling my boss, either. Even though the loving, supportive letter that included my paycheck arrived last Friday. But I did receive a call from her former business partner (who has Parkinson's) tonight. We talked for a long time and she "gets it" (her father is legally blind and very feeble). I told her I was embarrassed, but she told me to "get over it" because everyone is worried about ME, not the fits of pique/temper. So, that's the next order of business. And a trip to Mum's house to assess the gargantuan task of cleaning out its contents.

Your expressions of support and insight mean more to me than you will (I hope!) ever know. With few exceptions, I would likely not be able to recognize most of you if I brushed by you on the street and yet I feel more kinship here than I do with many familiar faces. Funny, huh? I only hope I rise to the next person's need as gracefully and generously as have all of you... (no short order!)

I smell dinner and this is about the extent of my ability to organize my thoughts today, maybe I'll be more chatty tomorrow.

Still sorrowing mightily... :(

Chelone, I can't bring myself to dwell too deeply on your sorrow because it hits too close to home. Although I have times I come close to wishing my DH was no longer with me...I know if that time comes, I will live with pangs of guilt. The tantrums that he occasionally throws,( at the least little thing), can almost overwhelm me, but after it blows over we seem to be more comfortable with each other. I think a part of my spirit has died over the years, due to his quirks...but maybe he feels the same about me? I know I am a long long ways from being a great person. I think I may have been a better person if I hadn't lived most of my life in pain.( But then again, maybe the pain has made me a better person?) I know that has been hard on Nolon also...seeing and hearing me in my pain, and feeling helpless to make a differance.
I hope you soon can come to the understanding that you have done the very best that you can, and now the ball is in someone else's court. Does your mum have any understanding of what is going on now? Does she recognize her son? Does he have a wife?
I believe you have come very close to a nervous breakdown. I have reached that point occasionally, but it hasn't lasted long. Each of us are differant with what we can endure. I am so happy that you have a supportive DH. That is bound to help.

Marie, thank you for your comment on my back problem. Thank God it is better now. I haven't gone to a doctor again, yet.( I had begun to think no one had seen my last post!)

I went to the Golden Year's class today for the first time since early in December. I didn't stay for the potluck... I am battling a too nagative attitude! Maybe it is due to my meds, or maybe I haven't recovered from the "december madness" yet?

Good to see you Ei .

Are the rest of you being plagued with spam emails? Don't laugh, but most of mine are about Viagra!( I HATE those ads! ) Apparently the blocker on my Outlook Express does not work. I continue to get more and more! My email address has apparently been sold, and I am also getting a lot of financial garbage. All of this has started in the last month or two. I wonder if it could be from the "pass it on" emails?

Today the wind felt like it was off the North Pole. It cut right through my coat and fleece sweatshirt. Tomorrow it is to change from the south, so hopefully it will be warmer.

Marian

Tuesday greetings, bringing up the rear here as usual !

Chelone, glad you posted , glad we are here for you. How funny to think that 20 years ago a community like this would not have existed. I'm really touched by the kind words that have been posted here..what a very genuinely nice group of people !

We are expecting another cold snap later this week, back to our 20 degree nights. I was bad on Sunday and went to the garden center to get one six-pak of pansies (to replace those that have crown rotted ) and came home with yet another begonia. Just couldn't help it.

I got my brochure this week in the mail for the San Francisco Garden Show in March. So do all of you east coast folk trek to the Philly Flower Show ?? I look forward to this event every year , some years I do two days. Napa County master gardeners always charter a bus. We leave Napa and pass breakfast type snacks, coffee etc in the bus on the way into the city, and coming back we have the wine flowing along with appetizers .The bus gets very loud as we compare our purchases and discuss the display gardens.Sort of like a bus full of high school students returning victorious from the football game...

I'd best go make dinner.
Hellos to everyone !

Kathy in Napa

DH is doing his part to bring a smile to the birthday girl's face....and anyone else who needs cheer as well.

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Gusting and very cold here Kathy...22F and bitter out there.

Looking forward to Michelle's wedding photos!

Off to catch a few zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzs
'bug

Tonight I had to go to the town that Rick works in to pick him up from work. He took my car to be repaired. We picked up a few things for the birthday party on Sunday. On clearance I got one of those beverage fountains. I have had my eye on them but didnt want to pay $50. I got it ½ off. I thought it would be fun for the grandkids and other parties.

Gosh V did we traumatize you that much? LOL

Cynthia, what a lovely selection of hellebores, I dont have a one in my garden. I will definitely have to look for some.

I have been enjoying all the pictures from winter gardens to family.

Mary, that must be really tough to have your DH gone for such a long period of time. The missing girls is really something. How frightening!

Kathy, that camellia is stunning.

Babs, I worry that Im getting too concerned about germs. Hand washing and a bottle of antibacterial gel on my desk these days makes me wonder about becoming obsessive-compulsive. LOL

Pm2, I didnt refinish the cabinets, just the handles and hinges. The cabinets were just washed and polished.

Im sure Ive missed commenting on much, but Im beat. Later!

Michelle

Here are a few pictures from the wedding. My dress is really navy although the skirt looks royal blue in the picture.
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This is Rick's granddaughter and one of his grandsons.

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Good peaceful morning. My wish for everyone today is just that. Peace in hearts, minds and souls.

Chelone: Let it roll. Sob. Scream. Don't fight it. You've a lot of pent up emotions that run the gamut. Don't force yourself to do anything you don't absolutely need or want to do. Perhaps some greenhouse time somewhere? Everyone has said it so well so I won't blabber on, but yes, this is an anazing group and unique in my world. Glad we are a part of yours right now.

Happy Birthday Taryn!!! For some reason a pic of your Valentine's Day cards from your boy is stuck in my head as a great example of "True Love." What more does one need?

The pics are amazing, Michelle. What a beautiful and "in love" looking bunch! You and Rick are stunning.

Kathy: Can't help telling you this: I have pansies blooming their little heads off. Also have a Euc that so far is succesfully overwintering in a Z7 microclimate on my deck. I don't go to Philly, but do try to get to Boston every few years. Hartford has a not-bad show that's fun to poke around. More of a long-lost-friends get together amongst plant people but some of the displays are, indeed, encouraging.

V: Be safe traveling. If you're anywhere near CT by all means let us know!!

Drema: How's your brother doing?

Mary: What happened to those kids? Love the "Holland" story.

Marian: I believe you're stronger than you think.

Eden: Have you surfaced from under the wrapping paper and books? Wish you hadn't turned me on to Diane's Seeds .... LOL

Deanne: A duck blind in your backyard just seems "right."

Know I'm forgetting something I wanted to say to someone. We've had a rocky last few days but nothing insurmountable. Just life garbage thrown on top of fresh manure piles sitting in quagmire. All of you know the feeling. We're digging out and keeping in mind that what goes around comes around.

Also remembering to be grateful that we are not of the ilk that isn't happy unless they're miserable. Enough of that :-)

Finally below freezing here with "something weatherwise" in the forecast for next week. The "no snow" is having a major financial impact on Western Massachusetts and many clients are feeling the pinch. Onward and upward, and thinking of what could be happening after watching the Malibu fires last night.

On the "Life Really is Good" front: Am beginning to get seeds and Rich and Ky will be constructing my seed starting area this weekend. Since I use the same tables on which the Village resided, will be a bit of a rush to get really early things in on time, but am also going to try my hand at direct sowing some stuff. Hey, if the weather is going to act like Z9, so am I!!!!

Let it be a "penny face up" day!!

Martie

Good chilly morning!

Back to seasonal temps here in the northeast, but I can't really complain about that.

((((Chelone)))), I don't think I can add much more to what was said above, there are some real words of wisdom there. You shouldered a huge responsibility, and I think in time you'll see that you did all that you could and then some. Shame on your brother for being disapproving, I'm sure that was his guilt talking. Thinking of you.

Gardenbug, congrats to DD on the house! Home ownership is so exciting. I remember when we bought our first house, we raced over there as soon as we had the keys in our hands, just to look some more, not believing it was truly ours. Helping your family with that is an awesome thing.

Michelle, love the wedding pics. Everyone looks so good. I like the touches of red on the bride's dress, something a little different than the traditional plain white.

Kathy, I attend the flower show in Boston every year with my mother and my best friend. It is held in mid-March, just the time when we are feeling more than done with winter here. I used to volunteer there too, but the parking is just to expensive to go more than once. I was fortunate enough catch a glimpse of the frantic set-up process one year, and the amount of work that goes into those displays is unbelievable. I could only gape at the heavy equipment carrying pallets of stone, full-sized trees and yards of mulch around inside this huge, empty hall. I remember thinking, "they'll never pull it off by Saturday". Sure enough, they did!

Have to run, duty calls - only a half-day of work today though. Hi to all!

-Wendy

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Happy Birthday Taryn!

disclaimer: snowdrop pic is from last March, they are only poking out of the ground here at this time.

Michelle -- what a lovely couple (both the newly married ones and the parents!) -- what a nice pick-us-up little group of pics.

'Bug -- Im imagining your DH bronzed as he wishes... hmm, wouldnt look so bad either w/ that guitar in hand.

Kathy -- I meant to comment on your camellia -- it was funny; I've been contemplating trying one in my gardens (here in VA you usually need a fairly protected micro-area, partially shady); I was looking at ones in Fairweather's catalog & lo & behold you pop pics in here -- nothing like throwing catnip at me!! I have gone to the Phila Flower Show a number of times -- it's very "over the top" and always very crowded; but is a great winter pick-up (& last year I saw a lot of bulbs in person that I decided to try this year); there are no decent flower shows in the DC metro area; Im not sure if Im going this year or not (the first week in March); guess I should start thinking about it if I am....for the "average" gardener it's hard to wade thru usually & translate into every day -- kind of like the NYC & Italian Fashion Shows -- not sure what items we could wear every day....but I do usually manage to see one or two trees, shrubs, etc., I discover I add to my want list.

Marian -- sorry you're feeling punk again -- I think the winter & January esp. is tough for all of us -- and we all change as we age -- I think the "youthful spirit" idealism we start with definitely changes; but that's not necessarily a bad thing -- usually w/ that spirit is thoughtlessness and impulsiveness -- 2 things that can get us into trouble more times than not.

Re the spam - I have noticed a huge upturn in that on both my person email and office email -- it's incredible -- and Im getting Viagra and all sorts of things at the office -- we have spam filters but get daily reports of what emails were stopped (in case the occcasional legitimate new email comes thru & you want to receive it). I sure hope the office computer "Nazis" dont think Im spending time on porn sites or stuff -- I cannot figure out how it gets here or what websites they phished from (some Xmas shopping websites I suspect). I noticed here on the GW site a lot of people recommend Firefox as really helping. Wonder if you could try that?

After our taste of Spring (& almost buying more pansies too, Kathy, but resisted) it's now a frosty 19 windchill degrees here in this area today (snow flurries last nite!); crazy crazy.

Trying to keep an upbeat attitude -- spring daydreaming is helping me along.

Cindy

Sorry I missed your Birthday Taryn ! But I am sending hopes that you had a good day, and a BD pic of my Scentimental rose from last year :
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What a joyful wedding! Red and white suits the season beautifully. The red roses in the gents' lapels remind me of Pierre Trudeau. LOL
Michelle, your outfit is gorgeous..and you too! I'm reminded of Hillary Clinton's Inaugural Ball gown which was similar in colour and sparkles. That too was beautiful, no matter your politics.

The verdict today is that I am FAT. I made the mistake of weighing in this morning. So difficult to exercise with a bad foot. Something will have to be done though, and no one else can do it for me. Sigh. Maybe Charlotte will help me walk.

Amazing roses Marian!

Yes Cindy, I'm trying to imagine the same thing! ;-)

Wendy, DD and DSIL hope to visit the new house this weekend with DGS. He'll be so excited! Yesterday DD bought a much needed new bed. The one they looked at before Christmas was on sale yesterday for $1250 off!

Oh Wendy, "Rocky Road" is good if it is ice cream...not LIFE. Keep up the good attitude!

Martie, not Z9 here at all. Windy and COLD, high of 24 expected today. Perhaps those seed catalogs will entertain me.

On the LOL front, got a Christmas card from an old boyfriend with photos. How come he looks so old????

Later folks,
'bug

BRRRRRRR! It's cold out there today. Winter has finally made an appearance here though we still don't have snow. I've been staying inside and just puttering around with my plants. Every year in January I seem to get renewed interest in the houseplants and light gardens. It does seem like this month is flying by though. We're already 1/3 of the way through January.

Kathy, you're not alone. I picked up a couple of new begonias last weekend too.

Martie, have fun with your seed starting. This will be the first year in a long time I didn't place any seed orders though I have a couple of big boxes full of seeds here in reserve, lol. I'm not doing any seed starting this month. I'll have to wait and see if the bug bites me next month or not. One of the local nurserys has a 1/2 off seed sale through the month of February. I do need to get the ornamental pepper seeds out soon to those of you I promised them to though.

Michelle, what a beautiful winter wedding and those little flower girls are all just as cute as can be. I love the one leaning in for the photo.

I wish we had some sort of winter flower show around here but we don't. The big news this week is the Detroit auto show, not something I'm at all interested in attending. We do have a couple of nice greenhouses that I visit often to breath in deeply the scent of plants and soil.

I have nothing planned for today, just a peaceful day at home and maybe a little baking to keep the house warm and cozy. Hope you all have a good day too!

Eden

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Happy Belated Birthday, Taryn!

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Hi guys. I started this yesterday but didnt get a chance to finish. Im less than halfway thru this idyll, but thot Id post what I have and then tackle the rest. Here goes:

Ive been in a funk (dont know why but probably an overdose of relatives) so decided not to inflict myself on anyone and have tried to stay busy. I ran around last week with returns and exchanges, hitting clearance sales and searching out paint and fabric for our bedroom redo. I found a couple fabrics I like, but not coordinates. So Im still searching. And Ive buried my head in plant catalogues and books collecting ideas.

We had a wonderful holiday but Im glad its over. I ate everything that wasnt nailed down and gained a couple pounds but took it off last wk. There isnt any junk food left in the house, so were eating healthy again. On NYE, I took down the tree and brought in outside lights but left the inside decor to enjoy another week:

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The two prints in the dining room shown in this pic, are the ones I found at Home Goods a few weeks ago:

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Sunday the rest of the inside décor was put away except for the new snowflakes on the chandeliers:

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Bullet is back to his persnickety self and we do everything to encourage his eating. I havent been grooming him so as not to upset him and his undersides became quite knotted. Last nite, the groomer did a temp clean up and buzzed his delicate belly. He goes for his wash and blow dry on the 31st.

Wow, our party Blabs" checked in!! Teasingit was so great to see you post and hope to hear more from you in 07. And thanks for the reminder, Nurse, on hand washing. Im getting better about it but needed the extra boot in the patootie.OK,

Eden, that your Moms MRIs are clear is the very best new years news ever! You must be so relieved. Im so happy for you and your family.

Michelle, your kitchen is exactly what I think a country home" like yours should have. Cant wait to see the new curtains. Sorry your sewing machine is not working. Wanna borrow mine?! A couple yrs. ago I caught a sale and bot a pretty basic portable Singer for $75. Best money Ive ever spent. I dont need all the do-dads for what I do.

Deanne, you need to submit your photos to wildlife magazines. Seriously, youre such a talent and your compositions are so fresh. Thanks for sharing w/us!

Monique, glad to see you posting, too. Ive been meaning to ask you you have a huge trellis on the side of your gorgeous home that I suspect Les made. Can you tell me what matls he used?

Bug, Im sure your tutoring will give your DGS a leg-up in school. Im sure he really enjoyed the one-on-one attention and it mad him feel special.

Hey Cindy, Ill forward your complaint to my cousin about the metro. I think he has something to do w/that. I used to commute to NY via public transit when I lived out east. I was glad to leave those long rides home behind me. You have my sympathy.

Oh, Mary, what a harrowing nite you, Annie and the respective families had over those lost kids. Im so happy all turned out well.

Hey Sue, Im so glad we werent the only ones to call it a night on NYE at 12:30. Actually, thats the time we started to leave our friends home and finally got on the road about 1 a.m. and made it home in a record 25 min. I guess our partying days are over. Le Sigh, as Da would say.

Martie, ROTFLOLOL over the que ball" story. Thanks for the info on calls from the Drs ofc. I think the direction theyre taking is a good one and less stressful on all concerned.

Marian, I, too, was thinking of you lately. Dh opened the kitchen window when my oven was self-cleaning but neglected to move my xmas cactus. Well, that killed all the flower buds. Any chance Ill get more this yr?

That's it until I catch up more. Can't wait to hear about Michelle's wedding. TTYL,

Honey

Hi Honey, good to hear from you. I have had xmas cactus rebloom. I think it may come about if you keep it from artificial light, and in a cool location. Sorry about the loss of it's blooms. My oldest and largest one is blooming right now. It is in serious need of repotting! I love those snowflakes. :-)

'Bug, the scent of those roses is amazing also. :-)

Marian

'bug, your DH's last wishes brought to mind a country song:

Prop Me Up Beside the Jukebox (If I Die)
Joe Diffie

Well I ain't afraid of dying it's the thought of being dead
I wanna go on being me once my eulogy's been read
Don't spread my ashes out to sea don't lay me down to rest
You can put my mind at ease if you fill my last request

Prop me up beside the jukebox if I die
Lord I wanna go to heaven but I don't wanna go tonight
Fill my boots up with sand put a stiff drink in my hand
Prop me up beside the jukebox if I die

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I am on the run....next is the dentists! :-( But had to pop in and wish Taryn a belated but very sincere Happy Birthday! I know youve seen this pixie before, but her sweet smiling face just reminded me of you, so I had to use her! I hope you had a wonderful day...I miss your cheery face! I dont know how old you are Taryn or if the number matters to you at all, but if it does, keep this happy thought....no matter how old you get, you will always be younger than me...boo hoo! LOL! :-) Happy Birthday!

Hi to everyone else....Marian that Scentimental rose is *gorgeous*! Glad to hear your back is better

And before I forget...again...Eden, I was so thrilled to hear your moms good news! Thats wonderful!

And meant to tell Kathy how I swooned at her Camellia...oh if I could only grow one of those here. Torture me...tell me how absolutely heavenly the fragrance is too; right?:-)

Hi Honey! Good to see you pop in...what beautiful Christmas vignettes you created! I especially love the snowflakes hanging from your chandelier...how pretty and clever of you.

Oh, and one other thing, since I wont have time to make another post today. I wanted to tell Martie how much I enjoyed her Christmas village....it brought a big smile to my face. Would love to peek at it in person and see all the little charming details. BTW, your grand dog is about the cutest little guy Ive ever seen! What a face! And very dapper too...what kind of dog is he? I love his strut! :-)

Oh and Michelle...your wedding pictures are gorgeous! And you look sooo pretty in your blue dress. I like the idea of Royal Blue and you've just given me some options for my son's wedding. The bride has chosen merlot as the color and my corsage will be a pinkish colored calla lily. I was wondering what would complement her colors...

Hope the day is looking a little brighter for Chelone...sending positive thoughts to you.
No more stalling now...the dentist awaits! TTYL! Ei

Well....except for the nose Taryn, you don't have my pixie's nose (you're not Italian like me...LOL)! Your a little Irish girl, so you have a cute little button nose! :-)

Ta-ta Guys!

Ei

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Happy Birthday Taryn!

Just a quickie here.
The Arbor Day Foundation has an interesting animated map that shows the change in plant hardiness zones in the past 16 years.

In that time, Minneapolis has gone from just south of zone 3 to firmly in zone 5.

Marie,I already have that map bookmarked from another forum. We have been moved into zone 7 from zone 6. I have been growing zone 7 plants for some time now. I still expect a hard winter to wipe them out.

(( Chelone)) Thinking of you. I hope each day gets a little easier for you.

Hi, Marian, I hope things are looking up for you too.
Pain is a real drag. Even when we can tolerate it, it wears us down.

Cynthia, shamed me into cleaning the basement. Two days into it and only half done.
Many plants pitched that weren't doing well.
So much dirt from the firewood and general tracking in.
So many things that need to be gotten rid of to simplify things.

I actually had started on my room and got sidetracked to the basement.
I finally got the old computer off of my desk after almost three years.
I dumped everything but the games off of it and will put it downstairs for
DH and Wyatt to play with. It makes a lot of noise but still works.
I have a ton of paperwork to go through and clean out yet.
And then there is the closet that I don't even want to talk about.

Mary I am so glad Annies friends were located.
There is an Amber alert for a thirteen year old boy who
was abducted not far from here, after he got off the bus on Monday.
I just keep thinking about him. The same age as our Jake.
It is so hard to let them have their independence when there are so many predators.

I don't know where the last week went. I have caught up on reading ,but can't
remember what all I wanted to say to people. Bear with me if I have forgotten things.

The boys were here over the weekend, Wyatts 4th birthday was Monday
but they are not celebrating until Sat.

Happy Belated Birthday Taryn!

Michelle, those are good looking newlyweds. I love that wedding dress, and I am not big on
wedding dresses. You look really nice in yours too. Looks like everyone had a good time.

T, Love that snow picture.

Hi to absolutely everyone. You know who you are. LOL .

I'll be cleaning if anybody misses me. LOL. Norma

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bug, does that mean that now that Im in zone 5 I can push the envelope and try some zone 6 plants? LOL Ill bet that I paid much less than Hillary for my dress ;o) Sorry to hear that you are still having problems with your foot.

Norma, that is an awesome fountain. Happy 4th birthday to Wyatt. Are Wyatt and Jake brothers?

Mary, I love the dragon.

Ei, I dont believe I heard when your sons wedding date is.

Honey, I absolutely love your decorating style. Its so elegant.

Marian, those are some very cool roses.

No flower shows around here. We have gone to Minneapolis but it seemed to be a lot of landscaping type stuff with lots of hyacinths.

I just received my 20th seed or gardening catalog today. I have never gotten this many or heard of some of them. I guess its out Im a gardener. I even got a complimentary issue of Garden Gate today. I have subscribed in the past, I guess they want me back.

night
Michelle

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Good white morning. Everything has a fairy layer of frost and it is just beginning to sparkle in the sunrise.

Running by waving like mad. Am so enjoying Taryn's pics and am hopeful that the birthday girl will sit through dialup to join us, soon :-)

Eden: If you're not gonna use them, can I borrow your lights??? LOL Slipped an additional 4 onto Rich's business Home Depot list this morning. Think he'll notice?

Honey: Good to see you! I love that our house colors are so similar. You, however, have the deco touch (my DS did the village:-). I do the same thing every year when I find something that works.

It's "Get Your Budget Day" at work which will tell me exactly what I have to sell before I start making "real" money. It's frightening and exciting for a salesperson all at the same time.

Lots of great memories of most recent house-buying being conjured up. Just what my soul needs right now ...

Hi, everyone!!! Later!! Martie

I wonder why I cannot seem to view any photos that are from picturetrail... anyone else having that problem? (maybe it's some filter that my firm has newly applied...) very weird.... I'll have to try at home....

Very brrrrr here today.
Guess that cleaning is contagious! Dont get lost in the basement though, Norma.

--Cindy

Good morning.. :-)

17 degrees on the back porch this morning..quite a change. At least the sun is out.

36 posts since the last one I posted....I tried to skim and hit the highlights, but I am hopeless..lol

Marian, I am sorry you are having a hard time. I'm not quite sure what health issues you and your husband are struggling with, but I do understand a little bit, how having to be routinely in pain can take it's toll. If you are still feeling low, I would definitely look into the meds you are on before thinking it is something else. There are so many medications now that have depression as a side effect. You can look up the side effects for any med online. Sometimes it can be a combination of meds too, if you are taking a few. Loved your roses!

Kathy...your bus trip to San Fran sounds like something to really look forward to every year. Your group of master gardeners sure know how to have fun. :-) I have never been to the Philly Flower Show, either. I would love to go and should try to plan it some one of these years. I haven't even been to the Boston Flower Show in quite a few years. I used to go like Wendy, every year. It got to be so crowded and so expensive that I lost interest. I did go to one in Rhode Island a few years ago and was surprised at how small it was in comparison to Boston. We did enjoy it just the same, it had a different flavor and not as crowded. The one I really want to go to, is the Chelsea Flower Show. Link below. Looks like next one is the end of May, 2007. Doubt I will ever get to that one. lol

Loving all the photos..Gbug..your husband is handsome! I can just picture him up on a stage. Maybe they will host a competition for the over 30 American Idol? :-) I did mention how I am so happy for all of you about your daughter's new house. Hope she will be close to you. The photos were great...hope we get to see what they do with the backyard. :-) Have an exciting weekend!

Michelle...what a pretty winter wedding scene. I also thought you looked great in your blue dress. The wedding gown with all the beads down the front and the red trim and the red in the bouquet...the cutie pie grandchildren...beautiful! Hope you all had a wonderful time.

Martie...hope your rocky couple of days have straightened themselves out. What are some seed you will be most excited to start this year? I am hoping to do some winter sowing again this year. I haven't started yet because of the warm weather. Still haven't ordered seed.

Wendy..Sounds like you had a great time watching them put together the exhibits at the Boston Flower Show. LOVE your snowdrops. They look huge!

Cindy...17 here today...at least spring is that much closer and the sun will start getting warmer each day. :-)

Eden...which begonias did you pick up...Kathy too...I love begonias. Gave up on my favorites, the Rexs, so now I am sticking to the cane begonias. Easy as can be. I bought a Good 'n Plenty from Logee's last year and just love it. Did you bake anything yesterday, Eden?

T...that was a gorgeous winter scene. Did you take that photo yourself? Where is it?

Cindy...is that your yard in spring? those daffs look familiar..are they the one that has 3 blooms per stem?

Honey...very very pretty mantel. I love the color on the walls. I am partial to it and chose something similar in wallpaper for my DRoom. LOVE your mirror and I don't usually choose silver finishes but I may have to think about switching the next time I am purchasing anything. You have a good eye. :-) What happened to Bullet? I think I missed that.

Ei...such a cute pixie BD card. :-)

Mary..that dragon is the cutest thing. I have recently seen a few photos of similar garden structures but this one is the best one so far! I was wondering if you would mind if I posted it to another forum for someone who was just asking about creating one of these structures with moss? Where does this dragon live? [g]

Norma...I should be cleaning my basement too. [g] Nice fountain..

Sue..pretty pretty tulips! Did I hear you are on the Garden Tour for September?

Deanne, is that BD card photo in your yard? I am growing shasta daisies for the first time. Started them from seed last year but haven't seen them flower yet. Really looking forward to them. :-)

Chelone...thinking of you and hoping you are doing okay. :-)

Hello to anyone I missed.. :-)

Loving all the BD cards...I haven't figured out how to do that yet...but one of my favorite photos from last winter...

Happy Birthday Taryn... :-)

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Happy Birthday Taryn!!! This is a picture from Idyllunion at the Botanical Garden
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Honey, I love your decorations! So elegant. Do you have a complete picture of your table centerpiece? It looks so pretty from the small part I can see.

Eden, I wanted to mention how happy I was that your mom's scan came out clear.

Martie: You asked about my brother, so I will give a little update. I tend to ramble on about this, so will try to keep it concise. They moved him to a large hospital close to where I work, so I get to go over there every day on my lunch hour. He is making progress. They have isolated whatever bug was causing his fever, so that is stable finally. He can't lift arms or legs, but is starting to be able to wiggle them. But, he is still in there. His personality is starting to show again, and that is wonderful to see. As soon as he can swallow I think his voice will come back. I think his throat is so dry that I can't hear him when he talks. Progress is being made though and that makes me so happy. It has definitely made me appreciate things that I took for granted like swallowing. Who knew it was such a gift? And so hard to get back after it is gone? I thought it was a reflex. I am getting an education.

Chelone, Hope you are coming to grips with your challenges. You are a very strong person and have done a great job with your mother. You may be doing your brother and your mother a favor. I can't add to the wise advice everyone posted, but I am thinking of you, and hope you are feeling better.

Michelle, thanks for posting the wedding pics. What a festive wedding! You and Rick look very happy. I love the fur cape. I think children add a lot to the feeling of celebration.

Norma, love the Chilhuly glass fountain pic. You have motivated me to do some research, and I found a place a couple of hours away that features a collection of his glass. It is the Franklin Park Conservatory, and my daughter and I are making plans to visit this spring.

Cindy, this cold wind blows right through today doesn't it? My Picturetrail is working.

Hi Marian! I have a Scentimental Rose. It is growing in a shady area... okay in my yard, what isn't?:) Anyway, I really like it.

Someone at work gave me three Jade plants, and they are getting new leaves. I am so excited. This is the first time I have had luck with indoor plants. I put Miracle Grow soil, because the original was hard as a rock. It is so fun to see the baby leaves coming out. And someone gave me an Amarylis to babysit. It hasn't started sending up leaves because I just got it. My one at home is sending up leaves. Can't wait to see these. Last year was my first time to have one, and it was gorgeous. I also got new light fixture for the basement Sunday. I am going to play with my indoor plants this weekend, prune them down and try to get some more under the lights.

Mary, I didn't catch the post about missing kids, but gathered a little from other's comments. Glad they were found. What do you and the kids have planned for this weekend? You do so many creative things. They are lucky to have you for a mom.

That's about it from me. Have to run, but wanted to say hi!

D.

I am too far behind to comment on all the things that have been happening to all of you! But I do want to say:

{{gwi:147036}}

and ((Chelone)) Im sure you will feel bad for a while but you have gone above and beyond the call of duty for a long time. You have nothing to berate yourself about now. Is the application for long-term care moving forward now i.e. is your mothers stay with your brother temporary until she gets a place in long-term care?

January is a tough month to get through here I always feel like hibernating and get fairly anti-social. That fact that January brings my annual MRI with it is a good part of what makes January dark for me. The MRI was on the 7th and Ill get the results on the 17th. Its always a nerve-wracking time here

I finally finished the sweater for DH yesterday the one that had sat in the unfinished projects basket for 6 years or so until GBs yarn dyeing thread and her sweater for her DD inspired me to dig it out - with the intent to finish it for Christmas. Missed that target completely! And I think I should have left it in the unfinished basket because the finished product is too big and too LOUD! I was aiming for a red sky at night effect but ended up with something closer to emergency flashing lights! All it needs is a blaring siren to go with it

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DHs only real comment on it is that the red part in the center makes him feel like hes wearing a target so here he is clowning again:

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I interviewed one person for my helper job last week and hope to talk to two more next week. Barb is translator for the interviews and she is on a dance cruise this week so things are on hold for the moment. Hopefully, Ill have hired someone new by the end of next week. And then teaching the new person ASL is the first priority.

One of the things that is keeping me busy this month is painting the trim for the shed. Its all in the basement and each batch takes four days to paint (2 coats of primer and two of stain.) Im getting thoroughly sick of painting and the pile to be painted never seems to shrink! But its easier doing it this way than waiting until it is up on the shed. I should have most of it done by the end of next week I hope. The shed siding is supposed to come sometime in February. Im afraid itll arrive early and the trim wont be ready, so Im trying not to let myself procrastinate about the painting. Im very good at procrastinating (see sweater history!)

Blow,blow,blow! Are we having March winds already? It was so noisy last night that I got very little sleep. Tommy went out before I went to bed, and I kept listening for his attempts to get my attention to let him back in. It was 2 AM before the noise I heard was him. The hover on our chimney came lose on one end, a few days ago, and was the big part of the racket. Naturally Nolon is no longer able to tend to such things, so no telling when it can be fixed.

Prairiemoon, My DH's health problems are mostly from old age. He is 80! He has had heart problems, but that seems to be okay now. He has a very bad back, and emphysema. He also has frequent memory lapses, and mood swings.
I am 74, and have battled the Fibromyalgia Syndrome and osteoarthritis for many years. I am the 'queen of Googling', ( smile) for answers to my health and for the meds that I take. I am only taking 2 prescriptions regularly...my blood pressure med, and a rather strong pain med. I have got it pretty well regulated, along with the OTC meds and supplements that I take. The OTCs are for high cholestral, low potassium, allergies, acid reflux...etc. ( I keep telling my friends that I am a factory reject and need to be recalled! ) LOL
I really do not think I am depressed. I don't have those type symptoms. Discouraged often, but not depressed.
Beautiful swan pic...:-)

Marie, I enjoy all your pics of the new family, and I enjoy your DH's humor...:-) The idea of him bronzed is a hoot! Weird...but funny...lol.
I saw a red tailed hawk on my way to town recently, then on a later trip, there is a dead one in the highway! I can't think it was hit by a vehicle, and hate to think someone shot it!
What a wonderful thing for you and your DH to do... purchase 'half a house' for the new family. I am thinking you are as thrilled with all the 'newness' as your dear grandson is! How wonderful for all of you. We never know what tomorrow will bring. LOL about the old boyfriend's picture.

Mary, I liked your "Holland" story. A lot to think about .
I love the 'dragon'. Wish I were ambitious enough to make one! I am glad the missing girls showed up and were okay. And I am espacially glad Annie wasn't with them!

LOL, V. I have had dreams of unseen friends also ( but then, you have seen many of 'us', and had the pleasure of having a bunch at your home). I can identify with the tiredness from some dreams, also anger or sadness.
I have never been to an Opera. A theatrical group puts on shows in Harrison, but I have never gone. Once several of my aquaintences were acting in one. I almost went...:-)

Eden, I never did tell you how happy I am that your mom's tests came out good. I hope she is feeling okay.

Michelle...such a handsome family!(Both yours and Ricks.) The newlyweds are 'beautiful'. The groom reminds me so much of a dear friend that is a bank manager in Harrison. His nickname is Cub , and he is like a cuddly bear...(smile).

Martie, I guess I am pretty strong, else I wouldn't have made it this far. But then, you know from whence comes my strength.

Deanne, I haven't been commenting on all your ezcellent bird pics, but you know I consider you a master at all you do!

Cindy, I really do not mind winter, but it has become increasingly a challenge with the wood heat! I do admit long dark days can get to me, but I have pretty much learned to 'tune' them out. Stormy weather, regardless of the type, invigorates me. I agree on your analysis of the 'youthful spirit'( Been there, done that!) ;-)
That is strange about the PictureTrail pics. That is what most of us use.

T, I love your wintry scene.

Honey, I hope your funk is lifting. I hope you saw my answer to your xmas cactus question.

Ei, I am still enjoying 'your' orchid's blooms. They are hanging right in there.

Norma, has the artic express reached you? You are fortunate that the firewood debris is in your basement. Mine is through the breakfast room and into the livingroom. Our aging stove has taken to down-puffing, and blowing ashes out of the draft door! ( Actually, it is probably not the age of the stove, it is the shortness of the chimney. It needs another joint on top! ) I love the BD pic you posted for Taryn. Where is that?

Drema, that is great that your DB is improving. I can hardly imagine the heartaches. It's so good that he is close so you can visit regularly.
My old Jade plant surprised me with a few blooms this winter. It had never done that before.

Woody, I think I am due for more MRIs . It's been several years, and various new problems have came up that xrays don't cover. I will be thinking of you and yours, and praying that you get a good report.
I like the sweater. I hope your DH will at least wear it around home. It doesn't look like a target to me. :-)
I hope you find the perfect helper.

I made another trip to town today. With the incoming bad weather I needed more stuff than I got yesterday. I think we are pretty well set, regardless of what comes! The wind is still strong, but warmer than yesterday. I wore one of my new flannel-lined jeans. It felt good!

Marian

1-2 inches of ice and then 3 degrees?!?!?!

Woah!!! Marian, bring in that firewood and hang onto your hat! Thinking of EP's family. (I still miss her too)
I pray the massive power outages warned of do not come to pass. Us 'southerners' aren't used to this stuff. :-O

Jerri -> Hunkering down for the weekend

Marian, the fountain was another Chihuly glass artist display at the St.Louis Botanical Garden. I saw on the news just last night that they were dismantleing most of the displays to ship them back. They did keep a few of the exhibits as permanent fixtures.
It has been windy here the last two days and we are to get some freezing rain this weekend.

Michelle , yes Wyatt and Jake are brothers.

Woody, I like the colors in your jokesters sweater. I have a feeling he and my DH would get along just fine. LOL
I can see why Jan. is a bummer for you. Sending good vibes your way. Looking forward to seeing your finished shed project.

Drema, thanks for the update on your brother. I hope he continues to improve. Have fun with the plants this weekend.

pm2, love the swans.

Deanne I love shasta daisies with daylillies. I have only found one kind that has done well for me. Don't know which one it is. But definitely need to propagate it. The others I have bought never live long.

Cindy, strange you can't see all the pictures.

I am two thirds done with the basement, but now the really messy part comes . The back corner storage area where everything gets dumped :( Bet that will be a two day job. It may have to wait till next week. I need to shop for Wyatts Birthday tomorrow. I hate to put it off because I know myself to well about getting back to things.

Waving to all again. I'm going to take a half hour for guitar practice. Have been to busy and am missing it.
Later Norma

Yikes Jerri that covers me too. I better get to town early in the morning. Norma

Norma, yes,leave early. Stores here are out of several items already! Maybe it won't be as bad as they are predicting. :)

Jer

Happy Friday-eve
Man, you miss one day posting around these parts and there is a boatload to catch up on !
So last night when I got home from work, I sat down at the computer and finished my newspaper column, sent it off and then went upstairs to change into my grungy evening clothes ( crummy sweatshirt, holy jeans etc) and the frames on my glasses break when I take them off to put on the sweatshirt. Out pops the lens and falls on the carpet. Frames broke in a location that made home-repair impossible. Went to the car to get my back-up pair of glasses (always kept in the glove compartment because when you are blind as a bat and something happens to your glasses when you are on the road you are basically sc***ed) and they are not there. Called my boss and left a message for him to say that I would be late to work because there was no way I was going to drive with one eye, and so I was going to walk , and would have to wait till it was starting to get light out(I usually go in at six) . Of course we are having record low temps ! I felt like a hardy New-Englander walking briskly through the frosty morn ! I also had a piece of paper taped over the missing lens to keep that eye from trying to focus. One of my office mates asked me if it was take a Pirate to Lunch Day .. . anyway, I walked to my eye Dr and got the glasses fixed and now I am complete again

Michelle, loved the wedding photos ! It all looks very festive.

Martie, it sounds like your pansies look better than mine !

Wendy , how fun to see the set up at the garden show . The display gardens are totally out of touch with reality, but there are always ideas there.

Cindy, Camellias are extremely common here, most homes have them. I think we take them for granted bit.

Honey, I love your red wall ! I have always wanted to paint my dining room red, but I have issues with conflicting tones of red in adjoining rooms. And about that funkI think we all get a let-down after the holidays. I find a good book and maybe a weekend of watching uplifting films might help !

Ei, no fragrance on the Camellia . The sasanquas are fragrant sometimes, but the japonicas are not.

Norma, dont give up the ship on cleaning your basement.. We dont have basements here (not very good earthquake-wise) but the garage is where all the "stuff" accumulates. My garage is very bad right now. I am hoping to do a purge in late February.

PM , we are expecting 18 degrees overnight tomorrow. Feverishly moving plants in..
And Drema , funny you mentioned the jade plant, I told DD last night she needed to move hers in . Most years they are ok if kept under an overhang , not when temps dip below 20 though.

Woody, I loved that sweater! No way is it too loud for me. I love the colors. I would wear it in a heartbeat. Best wishes on the helper thing..

Marian, I just really dislike the wind ! When I was growing up in So. California we had the Santa Anas which blew in off the desert and were hot, dry and created the optimum environment for the horrible brush fires that occurred every few years. Up here in Nor Calif, the wind comes in off the sea and is cold and gusty. Hope you can stay warm !

Time to sign off,, stay warm everyone !

Kathy in the Napa Valley