Wow, Paul, you sure have a lot of pretty flowers (and pics) : ~) Good Job, with that 'green thumb'. lol

A special request for a special group of people. I request prayers. I know to many whom have much larger needs this may seem small however the hurt and pain is deep. I am ending a realationship of 2 years. This whole issue is over trust. I have tried to forgive and move on however every change that is talked about doesn't seem to take place. The main issue involves trying to obtain credit on my name without me knowing about it. My gut feeling tells me to protect myself and my heart says try to work it out. However after months and months and seeing no changes my gut and body are showing signs of major stress. I want each of you to know that you have added much needed sunshine on some otherwise darken days. Another request I have is a group hug. I have so enjoyed meeting all of you over the past year and truly appreciate the special friendhsip this group has obtain. Horiculture therapy is helping me through this. because of this situation I will have to cut back on my spending which was already pretty limited. I hope to be able to continue having aol but may have to discont. Believe me this is at the bottom of my list of cutbacks. With this being said before anymore tears are shed I will go out and get some much needed horticulture therapy. I thank you in advance for your thoughts and prayers and your friendhsip.
On a brighter note the sun just came out and brought a smile to my face as it feels like it came from this group.

Hey there, Kiddo, here's a big cyber hug (((((PlantLadyJan))))

Now, on a more physical/personal note...
Take your right hand and put it on your left shoulder, (Come On, DO IT, PLZ) . . . Take your left hand and put it on your right shoulder,
close your eyes and rest your head on one of those hands,
now squeeze, and hold that position for at least a full 60+ seconds,
(shoulder squeezes and pats are also good, but can be optional).

So sad to hear of your troubles. My first marriage had some of what you mentioned going on. I'm soo glad that I cancelled any cards we had together so that my credit didn't go down with his ship.

If the relationship is meant to be it can be rebuilt again later through prayer and reconciliation upon changes actually made and trust being rebuilt and earned. Hearts are tender and don't want to let go as with any broken relationship a part of the heart is broken too. But our Lord and Savior can cover and fill that broken spot.

May the sunshine remind you of The Son who loves you and can carry you through the toughest of raging storms. The sun may not shine all the time anywhere (esp. at times in MI winters, lol) but you can always have the joy and warmth of Sonshine in your heart.

Take care and be comforted. You are being lifted up as you read this.
In HIS palm, Gina

Jan, I'm very sorry to hear of your problems too. It seems so alone when a relationship goes wrong but there are still a lot of people who love and care about you. Let your head guide you in this one and not your heart. Gina is right, if he gets his act together on his own and then you want to, try again. Be sure to be up front about financial issues tough because they are one of the biggest problems a couple can have. I too give you a big hug (((((((((Jan))))))))) and will say prayers for you. Dig, dig, dig! Stay busy and keep your mind occupied. Take a few days to cry but then go out and be with your friends and family. You need them now and we'll be here for you. If you want to email me I'm a great listener. Be well my fiend!

Nancy

Hi Jan,

I am sorry to hear of your troubles.

Ending relationships with someone you love is very difficult, but I will just tell you what I have told several of my other friends who have had a difficult time breaking it off with someone they love, and who loves them....."even if you both love each other, that doesn't mean that it is a good match, or that the person you love will make a good mate with you, when that happens, it is best to let it go and be open for a new relationship, you just can't beat a good match in temprement, values, and beliefs!"

I learned this from experience, and after several relationships where fighting was the rule, trust, jeolosy, "bad habits", when I met my now husband, I istantly knew he was a "keeper" because we were so well suited to each other in temprement and values (we definitely have differences, hobbies, interests, etc, but it is the core way we live our lives which is so similar) My husband and I never fight, we communicate very well, and basically get along like good friends. He was the first man I met that i felt I could trust to do things as well as me...like handle money, or plan a vacation, etc. How nice it is to "share" life instead of being someone's mother figure or correction officer!
I will send you good happy energy to you so that you can transition though this tough time with courage, grace, and strength.

YaYa

Hugs Jan, and paul for the wonderful plumeria seeds, what do I owe you?Jan sometimes it is time to move on, I sure hope you are able to stay online.I got rid of number one, going on 30 years with number two. I was shy and didn't think I deserved a great guy, so I decided I did and went after him, 30 yrs later I say go for it.

Jan, I add my support and big cross-country hugs. Always, always trust your gut. It is your true "red-alert" meter and, in this instance, I sense that you are feeling the warning now that will save you from years of disappointment, if not disaster, in the future. Even though it breaks your heart because of emotional ties, you will be doing yourself a favor.

You deserve better! Tell yourself repeatedly: "I deserve better." If he treats you with such callous disregard this early, how do you envision him treating you with any due respect in years to come? I wouldn't trust anyone, male/female/perfect stranger who would stoop so low. I wish I could have an hour with that 'other half' of yours because I would wipe the floor with him verbally. Then maybe swish out the toilet with his hair, which is clearly where he belongs. Poochella's hackles are raised...everyone's red alert meter should be sounding the alarm!
BATTLESTATIONS!

Too bad Carol/Veeja snagged her hubby years ago- he's very nice! She deserves nothing less and, Jan, neither do you. Dump the bum and have a girls' night out to mourn and then celebrate a tough, but good decision.

I would love to join the group too, if there are any openings, and please send me any necessary information. Please let me know.. My direct email is DA1763@aol.com.
This sounds like so much fun! :)

Thanks,
Deb

Good Morning All (even though it is a dreary rainy day here that just seems to call one back to bed... Resist it Gina, Resist it)

YaYa, you've got mail.

Hugs for those who are hurting and a thank you to those who have been posting pictures. I really enjoy seeing them!
A package showed up from my pal today and it seems like she sends an absolutely superb package every time - pal, you must work hard on this! I got two cute little mini pumpkins, two orange candles, candy corn, pumpkin cookies, a gardening magazine (glanced through it and know I will enjoy reading it), a larger candle that is tangerine scented (smells great), 2 packets of hot chocolate, a very cute Halloween card with a "dog theme," a metal hook that has a horse design, some crocosmia, and something that is "popping corn on the cob." I saw that in a catalog once and it intrigued me so I will be checking it out!
Thanks so much, pal. I've been really busy lately and dealing with dental pain (once again - this seems to go on more months than not with me) so it was a nice "care" package. You are very much appreciated.
Sandlapper Rose

A big hug and thanks from the bottom of my heart for all of you!!! I have read the posts over and over and appreciate everyone's thoughts. It sure helps at a time like this.

Ya Ya I am concerned about my pal I have sent a package over 2 weeks ago and haven't seen that she received it. Have you heard anything?? Please let me know.

I have a new garden....lovers lane! It is lined with lilac bushes and vintage pink peony. As it goes into the shade I added many hostas! Many plants were given to me by special people and yep you can feel the love as you walk down it!!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!! If the weather holds out here in MI I will be out in the garden!

Big hugs to Jan! Ending a relationship is always difficult even if you know it is for the best. Take care of yourself!

My package arrived yesterday from my Secret Pal. I received a bunch of bulbs, seed packets and some stickers. Thanks so much!

Jenell

I received a box today in the mail!!
It was SO packed, I canÂt believe it all fit in one box.
My pal sent some wonderful smelling candlesÂummm.
A really neat purple vaseÂI think it will go in the bathroom.
A magnetic list padÂjust in time, mine are almost used up!
A caramel apple kit. I will add apples to my grocery list tonight.
A garden statue, a bird ornament and some Canary Vine and Cup and Saucer Vine seeds.
I canÂt wait until next year to plant them.

Thank you so much Secret Pal.

Becky

Jan-Here's another big (((((((HUG)))))) all the way from North Carolina. You can do this girl, you'll succeed, there isn't any doubt. For you've been blessed with all you need character, ability, strength and courage too. Plus all of us here who believe in you. Stay strong in your decision. Will be praying for you.

I just got a new secret pal and she sent me the sweetest card and goodies to boot. A get to know you box. She said the October box would be mailed soon. Can't wait. Thank you so much, love my plant and can't wait until it blooms next year.

Poochella-You are on your toes girl. You are right about the dahlia master david. I took the picture and named it wrong. When I went to take more dahlia pictures and saw master david blooming I knew I got the name wrong on the other dahlia. I fixed it though.
This is Master David

Oh and Shirley that is the brightest best Master David I've ever seen! Mine are dull and yellow this year. You have the dahlia touch...... big trouble for Shirley....LOL Did you have any luck with Morgenster? Mine did not bloom- only got 18 inches tall and stopped.

I am having real trouble cutting down the dahlias which are still blooming although paler and smaller than in the height summer. I keep hearing the Beach Boys belt out "I Don't Wanna Say Goodbye.." but cut down I must, and soon.

Nancy: the only good ATV is the ATV left on the porch. But the youngsters have hours of fun on them (no serious injuries to date...) And the only good water faucet is the one you don't back over- oh what a mess! I hope you knew where the shut off valve was. I backed over my wheelbarrow with the car once, still miss it.

PChang and YaYa, with only the slightest Poochella-type delay- I have managed to get priority boxes off to each of you today. Paul that purple datura is a thing of beauty!

Gina, you will have to wait til Monday's mailing, still more digging to do. That is a wonderful tale of fortunate blessing on the motorcycle ride. We used to hunt for milk weed in rural MN but I can't for the life of me remember why! Sounds like all turned out as it was meant to.

Plantlady Jan, you are such a wiz in the garden, planning and planting such a wonderful sounding place to stroll: lilacs and peonies! Tres bien! I didn't really mean to say I'd swirl your other half's hair in the toilet, but if you ever need me to- just say the word.

I want the whole group to know I am out of the Garden Circle Closet and squealed to my Pal my true identity! Mailed directly, what a treat! So fast! It is a real liberation to be able to chat freely and make up for many secretive months, but I wanted again to thank you all for your assistance in the great Garden Circle Birthday Caper earlier this year. I'm so thrilled to be part of such a great group and to have such wonderful pals on both sides.

Hugs to you Jan during this trying time in your life. Gina was so eloquent in her thoughts. I thoroughly echo those sentiments.
Pal, your October box is on it's way and should arrive just in time for 'bobbin'.
Sandlapper-sorry to hear again about your dental pain. I have several remedies but the two that I remember the best are: pounding head on cement floor(!)and Southern Comfort on the rocks. Somehow I can't remember which came first. No matter. Save 'em if you can and meanwhile break out the pain killers.
Paul, I'd like to add my name to the list for a Charles Grimaldi cutting. I'll send my addy.
I guess I'll finally go out and put parts of the garden to bed. I kept hoping some of those green tomato's would turn!!!
Shirley and Pooch I'm finally thinking maybe those Dahlias are worth the work. Master David is glorious!
Have a great weekend everyone.

Oh my, lilylouise, those remedies don't sound too good but I'd sure pick the Southern Comfort over the head pounding!

(I have several remedies but the two that I remember the best are: pounding head on cement floor(!)and Southern Comfort on the rocks. Somehow I can't remember which came first. No matter.)

For those who grow dahlias, I got one towards the end of the summer and planted it in a pot. It has grown to be about 12 inches tall. Is there a chance it will still bloom this year? Should I take it indoors once we get close to freezing and give it a little longer to try to develop a bud? I wasn't sure what to do with it once it gets cold. (For now, it's not cold - temps in the 70's and 80's but I'm sure those temps will dip soon.)

That picture of Master David is very pretty!

Sandlapper Rose

I received a great pkg from my pal today, I love it pal, a pretty card as always, my favorite is the seed pkts. thankyou pal I loved it all. can't keep a secret huh pooch?
I'll remember that if I ever have a secret "don't tell pooch"

Poochella-Oh my gosh I visited a huge dahlia farm today.
Bad for me, bad for me. They do have the dahlias. They plant the dahlia tubers in buckets and dig holes and put them in the ground. Come Winter they dig up the buckets and store them. Come Spring they divide the tubers and start the process all over again. They were so nice telling me everything they know about dahlias. She cut me a huge bouquet of flowers and said to put them in 2-3" of VERY HOT WATER and it would set the bloom and they would last 4-6 days.
Here's some of the dahlias.

Shirley

Oh, Shirley, what a beautiful-bountiful-bouquet! Good for You, Good for You!! You might have spent more than you'd of liked, but think about all the pretties you'll have next year!!!

Well, girl, what do ya think, are the delightfully dazzling dahlias right up there now with your delicate, darling daylilies?

Dahlias!! WOW!!!!

Sandlapper, If you still have 70's and 80's I'd leave the dahlia out to get as much heat and sun as possible. You have nothing to lose. Was it a plant, or a tuber when you planted it? Usually takes 90 days from tuber planting to bloom time, as an average; some are earlier and some are frustratingly s-l-o-w~
If it goes on to bloom, you get to see it. If it produces a tuber or two, then you can let the foliage get frosted outdoors, cut it off, dig it up and store the tuber for an earlier planting next spring to start all over again. You just don't want the tuber itself to freeze.

I was so lucky to spot my neighbor planting about 30 large evergreen things to screen their house for sale from a gravel roadway that passes nearby. Stacks and stacks of 8-10 gallon plant pots just taunted me as I'd pass by. Finally I caught him outside and for the price of one big bouquet I now have 25 new pots to plant dahlias in next year! As our soil is rocky and hard, hard clay, planting in pots will save me hours of pick-axing and amending new garden space. Have never planted a big dahlia in a pot before, so this will be an interesting experiment.

Shirley, how inspiring to get to see a big plot of dahlias. I would still be out there drooling LOL. Love those colors! I am having the hardest time forcing myself to cut mine down.

Ok, Pooch, what are your instructions for me... My 2 didn't bloom either. They had been tubers planted in mid/late May. It was about 50 here today, a little sprinkle at times and when we got home in the afternoon it was raining harder and THEN there was SLEET in it! Tonight it is supposed to be between 31 and 39 (depends on which report you go by!).

Also, does anyone have Black and Blue Salvia? I'm kinda on the edge of z5-6, so I don't think I should leave my 2 plants out and just mulch heavy. Although a lady I know had hers come back this year. I've had one person tell me to leave them in until they die to the ground after a killing frost. Another said to dig it, leaving the stem and then store it in the basement (like dahlias.?). And yet another said I should bring it in and keep it with my house plants and other tender items I bring in (but I'd rather not bring much more in due to space and 3DSs and Max (boxer). If I had 4 plants I could do a little experiment, but alas there are only 2 <:-c any suggestions>Thanks, Gina

shirley I gotta have that master david wow!!! I got a great pkg from my pal yesterday lovely card as usual, my favorite was the blinking black cat. thankyou pal loved it all.
thankyou carol. my pal hasn't posted I hope she got hers ok, come on post pal I get worried

Hi all, sorry I haven't posted earlier pal, I did get your box this week but have been under the weather this week and still feeling icky. And before I forget - (((PlantLadyJan))) - big hugs to you. Hang in there girl, you deserve better.

My pal - and I know who you are for sure now since your card and one of your posts this month told me you are coming to Texas! - sent me another lovely box of goodies. Bulbs of crocus and asiatic lilies. I love lilies, and have always wanted to try crocus. Was hoping to plant them this weekend - yesterday would have been perfect, but spent the day in bed. And today - rainy and cold. Really need rain here though. Also in my box - candles and bath stuff, both of which I love and can never have enough of. A cute fall decoration with a tree with colorful leaves, playful racoons and harvest fruits and veggies, a pretty gold beaded bunch of grapes - and chocolate! A nice selection of Halloween chocolates - thanks so much. And your usual pretty card.

In answer to your questions in your card, my life isn't always this active, but I have tried to stay busy since my divorce earlier this year. A lot of my travels are hot air balloon related, that's been a hobby of mine for 16 years. I've met lots of great people that way. And the Africa mission trip just happened to come along when I needed it. Still have to post the link to my pictures for you all. You said you'll be in Del Rio the end of this month to visit your daughter - how'd she end up in Texas? Del Rio is pretty far south of me, southwest of San Antonio. So it will probably be warmer than here, but maybe not by a lot. Texas weather is very flaky in fall and winter. We switch from hot to cold in a flash. High today here was 58, and we were in the 90's earlier this week. So best advice I can give you is check weather.com a couple days before your trip and see what they're predicting. Hope you have a great trip, and wish it was closer so we could meet in person!

Paul, I'd love some brug cuttings, any you have to spare. Which reminds me, I think I told Rhonda the same thing, and have yet to send an email. So I'll get one out to both of you, thanks for the offer. Any growing tips would be welcome too, I did get some cuttings last year but they turned all squishy on me. Hope to do better with any new ones I get.

Hugs and best wishes to all, glad many of us can keep going and will sure miss those of you who won't be able to participate next year. Blessings!

Alicia

Abcgirl Alicia there in Texas! Show us that link to your Africa trip, please. I've been thinking about needing something to look at on these rainy days coming up. Would love to see what kind of things you saw and did in far away Africa. And any hot air balloon pictures too.

Hope you're feeling better very soon.

Gina- did the dahlias grow green and develop buds? It seems it's been a slow year for dahlia growers across the nation, if not world. I know you had all that glorious hot dry weather this summer. I've had several that just quit at a foot tall, no buds even. Others complain of buds, but buds that don't open. So frustrating.

If they did grow to bud formation, protect them from that sleet and possible frost (covered porch, bring them in garage, toss a loose sheet or plastic bag over them if you can) and let them go as long as possible without freezing. If they freeze or just start to die off naturally, there's nothing you can do. Dig up the tubers and decide to try them again next year. Or you may want to start fresh with new tubers.

If the rain lets up tomorrow I will be working on a box for you.
Annie

Wow, Shirley. Those dahlia's are great. I too have been enjoying my dahlia blooms all summer long... and they are still going nuts. Hard to believe how much they grow from just one little tuber. Here are some photos (sorry, I forgot to write down the names).

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Brugmansia Charles Grimaldi still going nuts too. This was just a 4" piece of a stick this spring:
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Although I won't be "signing up" for next year, I hope to stick around and check in once in a while with the Garden Circle (assuming that's okay :-)). Paul

Hey, thanks Anne!!!!

I recieved the crocosmia in the mail today, and they shipped very well!

I am getting down to the last of the year's gardening chores, brought in almost all the plants to be over wintered, planted several hundred crocus, a few tulips, and some foxtail lilies 'cleopatra' (I can't wait for those!

I have a few more plants to spray and bring inside, and after the first frost, I will need to pull out all those annuals, and I have about 9 gallon size perennials and shrubs to get in the ground.

Meanwhile, my car is in the shop for 1k worth of brake work, uggh! Just when I went looking for a new couch, guess I'll have to live with the old couch some more!

I'm taking my dad to pick out a new red maple tree this afternoon, they should be in nice fall color now, and it is best to pick it out when you can see how pretty the color is on them (red maples are kind of variable so you pick them out in full fall color to be sure you have a good one)

We'll sure miss you next year Paul, please do check in with us when you get a chance.

YaYa

Shirley and Paul, thanks for sharing picts of more of your beauties.

YaYa, Sad to hear you may have to put your couch purchase on hold for awhile. I think we all have had something unexpected come up like that and eat away at our plans (hmmm kinda like the bugs/worms who go after some really nice plants that we had expected to have lots of beautiful blooms). That is nice that you and your dad can go together to pick out a tree; What a good time to share, make some good memories and enjoy the pretty colors of fall for years to come.

Pooch/Annie, this is weird... I posted a reply to your ?s about my dahlias, but it isn't here so I wonder where it went or how it got there, cyber spaceout. ANyway, one of my dahlias had a couple of buds that didn't do anything. Both of them got to about a foot tall. So, what do I need to do, dig and take to the basement?

Hey pals, what do you spray on the plants that you bringing inside for the winter?

Gina ilsonshine

Hi Gina and the rest of the group
Winter Indoor Plant Care
1. Clean your plant. Remove any dead/yellowing leaves. Check for any hitchhikers or unwanted guests, such as aphids, white flies, mites, scale etc. To be on the safe side, spray your plant with a safer soap insecticde before bringing it in. You can easily make your own. Murphy's oil soap works great and is gentle on your plants too!! 1 tablespoon Murphy's oil to 1 quart water.
2. Check the soil, too, for any hitch hikers. Look for fungus gnats, spring tails, and centipedes. If you find any unwanted guests, soil drench with Murphy's oil solution. Let stand for several hours.
3. Leach the soil. This leaches away the soap (if you used a drench) any dead carcasses and any built up minerals and salts.
Good Luck!! Can you tell I went to a garden class last night and I kidd you not this was the topic!! LOL

I want to thank everybody once again for the kind words that were shared with me. I still read them every day and it helps.

A Big Hug Thanks to All !!
Gina..Thanks for your thoughts!! The hug did help! Your right about the sunshine sonshine and I appreciate you sharing that. I always knew that but it sure helped me to take a moment and read it and feel it too!! I thank you for that.

Nancy...Thanks for your thoughts too!!! Thanks for being a friend and offering your help through email. I am still at the digging stage so.. so far so good. LOL!! Actually being in the garden has given me quiet time and time to really think about the relationship and I do feel I made the right move.

Ya Ya What a wonderful thought!! Yes you are right about being friends and being able to trust each other as I couldn't agree more with the fact I don't want to be a mother in the relationship. Wow what a powerful statement to have a friend to share life with and not have to mother!! Boy you did hit the nail on the head with that one!! I am so glad you have found a mate who truly makes you happy!! He sounds like a wonderful guy!! Does he have a brother?? LOL Kidding yes I really am just kidding!! LOL

Pooch... my oh my what can I say about your words of wisdom other then that they are!!! I love the graphics! Your the best!! Thanks for adding humor to a touchy situation!! I really think you should write a book!! Direct and to the point!! Thats our Pooch!! Thanks I do deserve better.
Shirley thanks for giving me a reality check!! I needed that!! Love all the colorful photos!! Keep them coming!! Thanks for the hug from NC!! NC is a beautiful state!

I find it so neat that everybody here is a caring person and offers help in their own way!! All whom sent a message thanks all were different in their own way and very helpful to me.
I will thank the others later as I need to go take care of my dog. He is almost 14 and can be so demanding!! LOL Love him much!!
Take care!

OK, here is a topic for you....what was THE ONE best thing in your garden this year, something that surprised you, or was a happy accident.

I think mine was the 2 flats of yellow inca marigolds that I planted as a border to my formal vegetable garden raised beds, that I didn't really think I should spend the money on when I bought them because I thought, I could use my money for more impact somewhere else, and I am not a big fan of marigolds, but boy did they really turn my vegetable garden into a showpeice. They did really well and unified the hodge podge of vegetables and herbs in the four beds into a bold statement. They did succumb to mildew in late August, and took a lot of time to deadhead but I will plant them again next year, or at least plant some kind of annual there, maybe begonias, less deadheading.

YaYa

Gina,

I am sending you some un-rooted cuttings. I would suggest if you don't already have it, to get some rooting hormone. It comes in a little plastic bottle and is a white powder. You can get it at Walmart for a few dollars. I have found much greater success using this for rooting than not using anything. all you do is dip the stem in the powder, and then push it into some nice soft potting soil and keep well watered in a warmish place. Most of the things I am sending you are super easy to root, but I have never sent them in the mail, so I will try to figure out how to do that so they don't dry out. My motherin law gave me some of those water crystals, maybe I'll use those. I think the weather is perfect for sending though. I'm going to mail them tomorrow.

YaYa

My garden doesn't make much of a splash at all. Mostly because I'm hopeless at garden design. But I revel in all things growing anyway. The happy ending story for me was the resurrection of a new salvia I thought had succumbed to our harsh NY winter. I think the name is something like Turkistanica. Anyway as I was busily hacking some hated belladonna off the back fence I noticed some unfamiliar tiny fuzzy leaved rosettes underfoot. A quick sniff confirmed that they were babies of the lost salvia. The leaves are huge now and the promise of this BIENNIAL for next year is something I'm truly looking forward to.

This is going to be quick, but I wanted to let my pal know that the box arrived yesterday. My wonderful pal sent me a really cute fall-themed picture frame, now I just have to figure out which picture I want to put in it! Also included was an adorable "Happy Halloween" sign that I immediately hung on my door, a pumpkin shaped candle, Daffodils 'Ice King' and 'Gentle Giant', and CANDY! Yes, CANDY! That didn't last long at all, DH was standing over me as I unpacked the box and made off with the M&M's!

Thanks again pal, you've really been generous this year and I appreciate every bit of it! :-)

Just a quick thanks to my special pal!! Thanks so much for the long letter...it made my day!!! Thanks to for the glads..one can never have to many!!! Also what a great idea with the cutters for the inside herbs. I really needed them. As my old ones were about worn out!!! Thanks again for sharing with me. I am doing a bit better and trying to move forward. I hope you are doing well. I hope you have had a special pal as you sure deserve one!!! Temps. have been in the 50's so I am still working in the gardens. Love that horticulture therapy!! Just can't get enough!

Hi,

I got a great box from my pal yesterday. It was a big box of fresh grown apples from brownsberrypatch.com in New York. It was filled with Empire and Courtland apples, and they smelled so good when I opened the box, like I walked right into the orchard. Thanks for such a thoughful gift pal, and such a great alternative to the Holloween Candy that I am trying to forget is in the front closet!

YaYa

YaYa, you asked what was THE ONE best thing in your garden this year, something that surprised you, or was a happy accident.
I won't call the the "best" but it was a surprise. I don't have many sunny places were I can plant things, so when I decided to plant tomotaoes last summer I put them in what I call my "rose garden." They grew pretty well there and obviously the plants died late in the fall. I did not bother to plant tomatoes this year. However, last year's tomatoes planted themselves. Both the mini and regular tomatoes replanted themselves from seeds that were left behind when the tomatoes rotted. They not only grew on their own, but they staked themseleves - climbing into the roses bushes and on the trellis that is there for the roses.
Anyway, a nice surprise in my garden although I'm not sure the rose bushes like being crowded by the tomato plants.
LOL Determined little plants (well, actually, not so little!)

Happy Halloween, everyone!

Sandlapper Rose

Halloween Greetings All Circlers

I have the most spooktacular pal! Just in time to grace my Halloween window shelves she sent the cutest little halloween stuffed witch and another mallow witch made in my home state: marshmellows made into a bewitching figure complete with broomstick and black hat. They will be welcoming Halloween in the House de Pooch for years to come.
Thanks my faithful pal. You are simply the best to remember me with such regularity despite your busy schedule.

I can't think of the one happiest event in my garden, but Sandlapper, I have volunteer tomatolettes all summer long, no doubt from the compost pile. I've tried and tried to grow tomatoes out here, and we get big plants, plenty of fruits, but they just don't have the heat to ripen before blighting; so I've given up. I smell the leaves of the volunteers however and long for the days when I could grow tasty tomatoes for the plate.

I am always looking for favorite new dahlias and without putting too much thought into it, or I'd be here all night LOL, I think I'll have to vote for Painted Lady. A perfect medium sized bloom of creamy white petals each tipped in lavender.
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Another is from my beloved Pal: Seattle- how appropriate and how gorgeous early on and even late season. I cut buds that are even opening into their gold and white glory after a few days in the vase. There is an irregular wonderful border of faint pink between the gold and white tips as well- just haunting! I stared at them far too long in the garden. Alas, it tipped over in recent winds and is now cut down for the Fall dahlia dig up. It was very hard to say goodbye!
Here are some of my favorites: Yellow Star the spidery pale yellow cactus, two yellow and white Seattles from my pal, Hillcrest Kismet, the coral bloom in the center.
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And here are some of the lovelies I cut one day before ruthlessly cutting down the parent plants for the year. Late season Seattles in the foreground showing more coral/pink than their usual bright golden yellow. I had a few more bouquets to make and deliver after this.
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YaYa, Thank You!! Your package arrived safely Friday. You did a fine job of packaging things. I was out of town most all of Friday, then Sat. was filled with kids and fall events, so this is about the first chance I've had to post and email some replies.

Thank you!! I really appreciate your generous package of seeds and cuttings. <: great surprises too where did you get the cute seed packets i do have rooting hormone. hopefully cuttings will root easily and grow well over winter. think should be able to a package out this week.>Thanks again. Gina

Poochella, Thank you for the great package you sent to. I can't wait for Spring to come back so these plants can grow and look pretty in my garden beds. : ) I think I should be able to get a little package out to you this week. Thanks again, Gina

Gina,
I'm glad they arrived well and good. I had fun putting together the plants because I knew you would be surprised. I was expecially happy that I found that rosemary with roots on it for you.

I made the seed envelopes. I bought the glassine ones, then took one of those apart and traced around it on oragami paper and/or wrapping paper, and made my own. It is easy to do while your watching TV or something.

Anything you don't recognize that I sent you you can look up on the internet, like that salvia, mine is blooming gangbusters right now.

YaYa

Hi everyone, I am safely back in Fairbanks and must say, all went well. No one enjoys a family funeral but it was SO good to see my brothers again. We are scattered all over and had not been together since my Dad's funeral about 15 years ago. We sorta promised each other to get together next year and not wait for another funeral.
These dahlia photos are so beautiful. I'm anxious to try again next year. Can they be "prestarted" inside in pots? That might be a big help to those of us with short cool summers. I'm going to try it anyway. Kate had dug mine and left them nice and clean in a box. Hope they do OK through the winter.
My gardens in both Kodiak and MD looked amazingly good. no frost yet in either place.
Yaya, you asked about best plants and mine was a mesclun mix that I started from seeds and tucked in here there and everywhere in the Kodiak flower beds. It looks beautiful and has been very tasty in salads for the past two or three months. I will sure do that again.
Thanks to all who sent condolence messages.
Beth

I'm sorry, Beth, I think I must have missed a post somewhere regarding your loss (when was this?). You have my sympathy.

I am glad for you though that you got to see family memebers you miss. That is a very good idea that you get together next year, just for a get-together, rather than for a funeral or wedding. It was a few months ago that an aunt of mine passed away and although it was sad, it was also good to get together with family. It was also good to find out about some health issues that several people had that seem to run in the family.

My DH mom's side of the family is so good about having a Fletcher reunion each summer on the Sat. before July 4. That way everyone knows when it is and can plan on attending from where ever they are. My Mom-in-marriage was one of 11 children and I think it is absolutely wonderful that normally they all get together. She was the first of the siblings to pass away, which really hit the others hard as she had been the best of friends to most of them as well as sort of the bedrock of the family. It is a shame that it takes something like that to wake people up, so that they will try to make up and renew their relationships. . . If there is someone in your family that you have quarreled with, make it a point to make a difference and try to make up, not just for your wellbeing, but also for them and the rest of the family. How many of us would ache if still have a grudge with someone and something were to happen tomorrow so that we could never even try to make things right?

Beth B, I too missed any mention of a death in your family, and pass along my sympathies. Although the feelings of loss are immeasurable it can be a healing time to review the life of the lost and acknowledge what they've meant to many people. We had a great time, believe it or not, at my Dad's funeral a few years back. All the family and friends who had meant so much to us during his lifetime were there to share cherished stories. It was a very nice gathering giving us residual memories equal to those of his living time with us. I hope you have similar memories to cherish your own loved one who was lost.

Gina glad you got the plants, I have every confidence they will do well in your summerlike Midwest weather! We have wind and rain coming overnight, but fairly mild temps. I could NOT believe how dark it was out digging dahlias after work this pm. I thought a big storm was moving in for sure LOL- nope, just Pacific Standard Time come haunting.
Happy Halloween everyone!

Thank you new secret pal for the cute BOO sign for halloween. It is iron with a black witch on it. That will be so cute hanging out when all the trick or treaters come calling.

Poochella-Put my name on the dahlias painted lady, yellow star and another morgenster. You asked me about morgenster but it died. Never did anything. I will have to check and see which others ones died also. I know there were some others. I know sometimes we lose plants but it always makes me sad wondering if I did something wrong.

Gina-Yes dahlias are climbing slowly to the top of likes for me. Alot cheaper than daylilies too.

Beth-So sorry about your famililes loss. My sympathy goes out to you and your family.

Paul-Love your dahlia pictures. I would love to trade you one for the first one. Even though you don't know the name I like it. You always have such beautiful plants.

Looking forward to some nice weather this week. Supposed to be back up in the 70's.

Shirley

Hey, Annie, I think I forgot to say "Nice picts of your Dahlias!!" Wow, I can see how that Painted Lady could easily become a favorite : ) Your Snaps are really pretty. I gave them all a big "ooouuu-aaaaahhhhh" when I saw your picts.
The second pic has some beauties too. I'll have ta add Painted Lady, Yellow Star, Seattle, and Hillcrest Kismet to my 'like to have' list. Do you have names for the pretty yellow one you have in your 3rd pic? Oh for that matter, what about the peachy-orange ones, and the darker purple with white tips?!?

Happy Halloween!

All you dahlia experts, please look at my post (Flower Changing Color) on the dahlia forum. Not sure if this is a common thing or not.

Pooch, your bouquets are amazing... and that Painted Lady.. Wowzers.

I guess we're not limited to 100 posts per thread anymore??? Hope everyone is well. Beth, sorry to hear about your loss.

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Here is a link that might be useful: My Dahlia Post

I received another absolutely wonderful box from my secret pal last week. I am late posting here, but I did e-mail her to thank her right away. Here goes! She sent jeweled bug windchines, some beautiful leaf-shaped floating candles, 2 different soaps--1 has the imprint of a witch on it, and the other has a pumpkin imprint on it. VERY cute!!! My super pal also sent me some herbs from her garden chopped and ready to use--sweet marjoram, purple basil, lemon thyme, and rosemary. Then there are the chocolates. Oh yum! A bar of Sarotti Java Grown milk chocolate--creamy and smooth java cocoa with distinguishing caramel flavor. It is luscious! AND a box of creamy milk chocolate truffles in the flavors of cherry and orange. Double YUM!!! To top all of THIS off, she also sent a variety of spring bulbs--ornithogalums, triumph tulips in blue shades(I love blue), and narcissus. These will all be very beautiful next year. As I have said time and again, I have been so fortunate to have such a thoughtful,caring, and wonderful pal. Many, many thanks to you, Mellen

Hello.
Just wanted post that I received my October box, but have been too busy/tired to post. Received lots of Halloween candies, couple of sedums, couple of other plants (can't remember the names at the moment), a notebook, notepad, little frog decoration, and some gardening tools. Thank you very much for all the great things.
Paul