Oh Sherry, my heart aches for you. There isn't anyone in our group I don't think that hasn't gone through the "goodbyes" to old friends. Let us all give you a group hug and our sympathy at your loss. Your beloved companions will meet you across that rainbow bridge one day and what joy there will be.......Maryl

Oh, Sherry, so sorry. I know it has been rough. What a couple of cuties. You were fortunate to have them so long but that does not make it easier.

On a flower note the clematis are spectacular.

So sorry to read about Abby. Our fur babies are such an important part of our lives. I know you must missing her terribly.

You are the Queen of Clematis. Both of those are amazing. I've never been able to grow them well. One of my three, Henryi, did not even show up this Spring - and it was the most robust. The other two are just limping along. What's your secret to growing them so well?

Debra

So sorry to hear about Abby. Losing a pet is so hard. That is a nice photo of the two of them together.

Before has an interesting shape. I also love the clematis especially Betty Corning.

Nancy

Hugs to you Sherry. I know the pain and saddness your feeling. One of the hardest thing we have to do.Our pets are like our children.

Love your clematis. Last fall I planted Josephine. One of my favorites when I grew it in NYS. Perhaps I'll find a Huldine but I'll need a much bigger trellis system like you have.

Your penstemon might be Husker Red? I grow it here. This pic was from last spring.

Julia

Thanks for the sympathetic comments…you are right…..the furry ones are family. We were nutty enough to bring a new puppy here at the end of March. His name is Charlie and he is easing the pain a bit .

Julia, I am sure you are right about the Husker Red, I do remember bringing one of them home from my favorite garden center.

Debra, Huldine and Betty Corning are said to be easy to grow….believe me, they are. You should give them a try at your new house. There is no secret to growing them other than a sunny spot. They do NOT get pampered here. These two do way better than the others I grow. I have a Crystal Fountain that half of it wilted away this spring, grrrrr!

Sherry

Crystal Fountains is one of my wimpy ones.

I have two Crystal Fountains. The second one isnt great either, so slow to establish.

Sherry

Any pictures of Charlie?...........Maryl

Maryl, here is Charlie about two weeks ago. I actually got him to sit still. He has since gotten his face trimmed, he is losing the black around his eyes. Haircut for him in a week.

Sherry

Sherry: You know I'm a "cat" person, but who couldn't love such a cutie pie. I'm so glad you have the fun of a new puppy to take your mind off of your loss every once in awhile.....Maryl

Sherry, I'm so sorry to hear about your Abby. My heart goes out to you at this time.