Shop Products
Houzz Logo Print
just_t

Idyll #306 YooHooo Spring--We're ready!!

just_t
17 years ago

Time for a new Idyll..coming up with a tydll is not my forte.

T.

Comments (94)

  • gardenbug
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    What a lovely idea! You've done so much research on your home turf and still have the family connections. Spring for it.
    I do hope Sis would enjoy a stay with her brother for that short time. I certainly enjoy my brother's annual visit. Nolan should be kind enough to allow you this gift to yourself I think. You haven't been selfish at all and have stuck close to the hearth for ages I think. Perhaps you could arrange it before garden and bug season begin?
    I'm so glad you thought how to make this possible!

  • deanneart
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning all!

    Well the weather people are predicting nine inches of snow for us tonight and tomorrow but everything should be cleared out by Friday night so unless there are weather issues in Chicagoland V. shouldnt have any problems getting in to Manchester. Phew! Theyve been predicting this storm for a week now and Im so relieved that it isnt going to happen on Saturday. Then Winter would have been thumbing its nose at us! LOL All the drivers shouldnt have any problems either.

    Sue, thanks for the update on Zoe. Sorry you still dont have any definite answers. ~~ I went to Home Goods yesterday and didnt come home with much except for a couple more patio wine glasses for out party. ~~ Sorry your DB cant come but as you said maybe next year. ~~ Glad to hear Tom doesnt have anything broken. He must have loved getting into that hot tub with those sore muscles.

    Speaking of hot tubs, anyone wanting to take a dip on Saturday remember to bring your swimsuits.

    Chelone, Im so looking forward to finally meeting you in person on Saturday!

    Wendy, thanks for looking up the plant ID for me on that. I really do love that variety. Anything chartreuse is great and ruffled chartreuse with tinges of maroon, perfect!

    Bug cant believe it is still so cold there. I sure wish youd been able to get down here this weekend. Maybe next year.

    Norma, glad to hear your guitar lessons are going well and that you are enjoying it.

    Kathy, that dahlia is Fascination one of my all time favorites and yes that is Golden Marenka. I had super luck with that fuchsia last summer. Let me know if you cant find Beacon Rosa and I"ll send you some rooted cuttings. It really is the best fuchsia I have. It is the most profuse bloomer Ive ever seen.

    Cynthia, thanks for the fuchsia info but they are indeed dead. The top growth was completely brown and dried out with not a hint of live tissue and the roots also dead and gone. One of the plants might have some life left and Ive got that one under the lights with my fingers crossed.

    Woody that coffee table looks great and your amaryllis are lovely.

    Suzy, so sorry about your kitties but glad to have you back.

    Eden, thanks so much for the container pics!!!! Just gorgeous. I particularly love the one with the Iresine and the Alternanthera Party Time. What is that coleus in the first pic?

    T, how much snow did you wind up getting??? Hope your satellite dish isnt buried.

    Marian, your plan sounds like a terrific idea!

    OK Im off to the gym. Have a great day everyone

    Deanne

    {{gwi:150223}}

    {{gwi:150225}}

    {{gwi:150230}}

    {{gwi:150232}}

    {{gwi:150235}}

  • Lara Noles
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good Morning and Happy March! The weather's not nice here today, windy and sleety now with lots of rain expected later and then I think some snow tonight. I'll take the lion now if I can have the lamb at the end of the month. Bella stayed over last night, she and Brad are having breakfast but I have to keep this short. They'll be done soon.

    Sue, We have a place called Michigan Veterinary Specialists here and I left quite a bit of my savings with them when my old cat Harry had cancer. You don't walk in the door to those places without it being in four figures. We dealt with the oncologist and ophthamologist mostly but also the neurologist a bit too at that time. Harry had a tumor growing behind his eye. I'm glad your vets didn't find any tumor with Zoe and I'll hope for the best for her.

    Hi Suzy, I'm so sorry about your kitties. It's great to have you back and that you have a new kitty friend.

    Deanne, those containers are gorgeous. The coleus you asked about is garnet robe.

    How about some more container pictures? Sue, Marie, Cynthia, Michelle? Come on you guys! We still have to get through March.

    I have to go. Bella's done with breakfast. Stay warm and safe everyone.

    Eden

  • Sue W (CT zone 6a)
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Overgrown window box

    {{gwi:150236}}

  • gardenbug
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Oh Deanne, I look at my coleus (I hate coleus) under the plant lights and see white things all over some of them. They keep growing though and look basically healthy. I just don't know if i should pitch them, wash them, spray them, or leave them alone and hope they last until May when I can shove them outside. Sigh....
    Yes indeed, I wish I could come to the gathering and meet some of my best buddies...Le sigh once again.
    I need to get moving, but wanted to drop in to read about Zoe. I hope her situation can be dealt with quickly! Fingers and toes crossed.
    Maybe I can find a photo to attach....
    From last July
    {{gwi:150238}}

    {{gwi:150239}}

  • michelle_zone4
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'll be back later. Snow day today - they say you should be where you want to be for the next few days by mid-morning. They are predicting 6-10" and high winds for the next 2 days. We opted to stay home. We have a few things outside that we want to do before the storm hits. We had freezing rain yesterday afternoon. On the way home there were 3 cars in the ditch and a semi jackknifed on the highway. Needless to say I didn't go over 40 and sometimes less. I'll look up some container pictures later and make some comments.

    Michelle

  • just_t
    Original Author
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning! It has been snowing off and on all night and tiny flakes are still falling. I'm guessing we have only about 3" which is suppose to melt by tonight. Rain is forecast for all day tomorrow through Saturday. The snow had almost completely melted yesterday afternoon but another system came through beginning about 9. Everything looks pretty. For some reason, last night's snow coated the satellite dishes but didn't cut off the signal. Yesterday I had to wash them off 5 or 6 times as the snow cut off the signal repeatedly. If it isn't freezing, I can use a garden hose to spray water on them....if it is freezing, like today, then it is more difficult since the water freezes into a solid blockage within the hose. I use hot water in a 2 or 3 gallon pump sprayer (like you'd use for Round-up. I stand at an upstairs bedroom window and pump/spray for a long time to melt it. LOL It takes a lot to do it that way and I do need to buy one of those kids' water cannon toys, it seems like it would be much easier if they do spray as strong, and far, as they show in their advertising.

    I love the containers, Woody's table idea and the amaryllis blooms (lovely!). I was glad to read that Zoe doesn't have a tumor and hope there is a treatment, without side effects, that will help her.

    The gathering this weekend should be a fun one. I can still visualize all of the smiling faces from IU2 and enjoy memories of the laughing, friendly banter during that weekend. I hope the weather cooperates so that everyone will have an easy commute to Deanne's & Doug's home.

    Well, I'm heading to fill up my coffee cup. C'ya later!
    (Eden, how is your daughter feeling?)

    T.

  • gardenbug
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    That March lion is roaring outside my window.

    Cloudy. Snow mixed with ice pellets beginning this morning changing to freezing rain this afternoon. Snow and ice pellet amount 2 to 4 cm. Wind east 30 km/h. High zero.

    I'm with Eden. Just as long as the lamb arrives by the end of the month for DD's move I'll be content!

  • Marian_2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Someday those of you who have such a huge chip on your shoulders will find that my previous post had nothing to do with any individual...it was a generality. Those who have taken it personally need to examine themselves as to why they did so. Perhaps I am not the only one here who has an inferiority complex?
    If you are incapable of accepting my appologies and explanation...it is your problem, not mine!

    'Bug and Deanne, thank you for your response to my question.

  • Lara Noles
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Megan called and her test came back positive for mono not strep. The Dr. said she can't work until at least next Tuesday. Luckily she took my advice and put money away just in case something like this happened so she can pay her bills. We've been having freezing rain here. The basement's leaking a little. Thank goodness for the wet vac!

    Megan's picking up Bella in a few minutes. She'll keep her at home for the night and then Jennifer will take over tomorrow and me again Saturday. Bella is missing her mom, being here overnight.

    Such pretty containers! Marie, I really love that second one. The ferns on the pot echoing the planting and the colors are just beautiful.

    Woody, forgot to tell you how much I admire your being able to design and build the things you do. That's a talent I don't have. Can't wait to see the completed table.

    Megan's picking up Bella in a few minutes. She'll keep her at home for the night and then Jennifer will take over tomorrow and me again Saturday. Bella is missing her mom, being here overnight. I keep getting "Mama?" from her. Hope you're all staying dry. It looks like Michelle and V are getting hit a lot harder than we are here. Stay safe both of you!

    Eden

  • Lara Noles
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Well that post got all jumbled up somehow?? Megan was just here and her throat's so sore she can hardly talk. I feel so badly for her. Bella was happy to see her and is glad to be on her way home I think.

  • chloehoover
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Boy, I need a turbo skim motor to get thru the past 24 hours here! Wow, you are zipping along at Mach 1!

    Okay, Wendy I confess I have the pedestal & one of the white urns; I resisted the 2 square ones because I was afraid they wouldnt be freeze proof (whoever asked the gray/black ones are clay & heavier; the others were resin or fiberglass - oops Wendy answered already) What a riot! Im not going to confess how many different HGs I have been to in the last 2 weeks (or how many times) esp. since I heard one of the salespeople say what days they generally get new merchandise in on. . . . Im still looking for bigger pots that are fiberglass that I can leave out & now worry about. . . . but there are always all sorts of temptations there; its a wicked, fun place. I also managed to get a couple of obelisks they had in about 5 size; and a couple other "accents" -- Theres no way Im going to attempt Deanne or Michelles numbers though. I ordered some "zonal denial" items Im thinking of potting on & seeing how they do that way.

    bug that is a beautiful blanket. So elegant I hope no baby frup catches it. And loved the "where do babies come from" story out of the mouths of children!

    Cats and whipped cream what a scream that is a new one to me, Chelone I will have to tell some cat lovers about it!

    Congrats, Babs!

    Kathie I sure hope the tooth is better make sure it gets proper treatment. Marian, hope youre feeling "more the thing" too. Hope you manage to make your trip to your sisters well. I can understand how it is hard to go away without being sure youve covered all the bases for care, etc., of everyone at your home.

    Deanne I didnt realize you lived in Chincoteague used to go there for summers w/ the DD for many, many years; have friends who retired there. . . . Almost bought a place there once a upon a time. Its the "best beach" in VA as far as Im concerned.

    Sue, I know the feeling about taking your life savings in hand to go to a specialist I hope they pin down something more specific re a treatment hopefully if its an inflammation of some sort either antibiotics or steroids might be of some help when they figure it out it does take the buzz off any "fling" spending for anything though. Glad to hear Tom is only minor bruises, etc.

    Yikes, re the weather Michelle definitely be where you want to be! Cant be anywhere but home! Its supposed to be all rain for us here starting tonite & tomorrow. . . .

    Im container challenged here... Ill just ogle all these terrific others.

    Sending happy positive thoughts out to all....

    Cindy

  • michelle_zone4
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Not mine, but these were pretty impressive at IU3. Note the size of the containers compared to the doorway to the right.
    {{gwi:150240}}
    Patio planter:
    {{gwi:150241}}

    {{gwi:150242}}

    We drove over to check our neighbors place (where no one lives) Its only a mile down the road, but we could hardly see where the road was but for the electric poles. I imagine that we will lose electricity if the wind blows like they say.

    Marian, I'd say you deserve a little time away. I hope it all works out.

    What a great pick me up on a snowy day to see all the wonderful container combos.

    Sue, here's hoping that they can figure out what Zoe needs and it doesn't cost too many bucks.

    A big ham in the oven and plans to get much accomplished during this 4 day weekend.

    Later
    Michelle

  • ccsuzy
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    It's afternoon here, 46 and raining. Melting snow and flood watch for us.

    I'll take the camera upstairs and get a picture of Mystique for you. If she'll be still long enough! Sometimes she's just a blur as she runs from one side of the house to the other.

    Marian, I think a trip to see your family would be wonderful. It's hard when families live so far apart. Not like long ago when families stuck close by. My closest relatives other than my parents are in California, and we really aren't very 'close' if you know what I mean by that.

    Sue I hope you can find something for Zoe that works. I'm glad they don't think it's a tumor. In the end, the vet believes that's what might have been Licorice's problem, since he started having seizures. He'd never had any problems like that in his life. These balls of fur are so much our babies, we just want to do the best for them, don't we?

    Hi Kathy, no we've not met. I was off for a while when you came....glad to meet another garden person.

    Hi to everyone. I've got to go up and get something thawed for dinner.

    suzy

  • dodgerdudette
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Hi Idylls
    Well here I am at home after a regrettably uneventful dentist visit. I still have my bad tooth ! Apparently there is a second tooth involved in my problem and my dentist felt it would be prudent to send me to the oral surgeon/ periodontist next door. The swelling has gone down a lot, and though I have pain its not bad as long as I keep up my Advil regimen. He offered pain meds, but I told him I had to be functional , and it doesnt hurt that bad as long as I dont talk or eat lolI may loose 20 pounds by the time this is over. I have a feeling this is going to reek havoc with my 2007 budget.

    I have been really enjoying everyones container photos-they are incredibly inspirational ! The bar has been raised; Im already starting to plan out my strategy . I think Ill head upvalley to the garden center this weekend and get a few larger pots. We are supposed to have mid-60s weather this weekend.

    Deanne, I found Beacon Rosa at Antonelli Brothers in Watsonville. They will be at the SF garden show this year , but if they dont have one there they have mail order. Antonelli Brothers is known for tuberous begonias , but they have added more and more fuchsias over the years. It looks like your fuchsias live in full sun ? Its a little too hot here in summer for that exposure, I keep them in morning sun or light shade. They do bloom more profusely the more sun you can give them.

    Marian, I hope you are able to pull off the trip to see your family , and hope that SIL is amenable. I think its a wonderful idea.

    A big hello to everyone, gonna do a little laundry as long as Im home..

    Kathy in Napa

  • gardeningmary
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Marian - Some time away sounds a very good idea. But I'm curious, do you interact with your family the same way you interact with the Idylls?

    Mary

  • Marian_2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Mary, I'm afraid I don't understand your question? Please explain...

    I just typed up a nice FRIENDLY post, and lost it when I clicked on review! It appears I had lost my connection with GW !

  • Marian_2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I should have asked ," Et tu Brute' " ?

  • Marian_2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Maybe this would go deeper?

  • gardenbug
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Oh for Pete's sake....
    Let's return to our happy forum.

  • chelone
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    OK, I've had enough.

    Marian, smarten up! this is the nicest, most sincere, and genuinely kind group of people it's ever been my pleasure to know. How you could even feature that people were being "mean" to you escapes my imagination! I don't care if this pisses you off. You need to hear it.

    I have hit lows in my life that have scared the livin' daylights out of me since Mum's health hit the skids in '03. NONE of my "real" friends were of much use, but this group was unfailingly and unswervingly kind, gentle, understanding, and humorously nudged me in the direction that was to prove most beneficial LONG TERM. You aren't the ONLY person to feel alone, confused, unhappy. But you NEVER share your feelings... only veiled references... CLUES that all the rest of us are "supposed" to read. And when we fail at reading your "tea leaves" you take it personally. NEWSFLASH! if you want help or NEED more than simple conversation, TELL us what you want and need; share your feelings. If you think THIS group is going to "ignore" you... well, you have very greatly underestimated the depth of compassion and sympathy that exists here. I like you A LOT. I wish the real Marian would participate here (the one that is only hinted at). Here's what I'd ask her: What's goin' on with you? why are you so unhappy? what scares you? if the "real" Marian doesn't speak up, none of us can HELP. Think about that, or get pissed off at me, too. It's up to YOU. You have the luxury of choice. (((Marian)))

    I received a call from a customer that I've not heard from in a couple of years today. Her husband died suddenly of a heart attack in November. I didn't know, and felt terrible that I didn't. We talked for a long time (45 minutes) and agreed it will be nice to get together. So the compassion thing, and the understanding thing, and the necessity of being honest about feelings is front and foremost, right now.

    I'd never shared the horror of THE RECORDER before this thread. LOL, the music program in the school system required its use. It was introduced in 3rd. grade and continued through 6th. grade. Naturally, by 6th. grade kids who "got" music were already into different instruments. Those of us who didn't "take up" one were forced to labor on ... pretty tough if you couldn't read music! No wonder I used to cry. And no wonder I wasn't willing to try again... this is how kids who get tossed into water, panic, and sink like a stone feel when faced with swimming lessons! My experience with the dreaded Recorder flashed before my eyes when I was studying for my WSI certificate, lol. Have you heard from the potential instructor yet, Mary?! I will live vicariously through you, you know. ;)

    Kathy, I sure hope the tooth is OK. My co-worker just endured an abcessed tooth. My own teeth are sensitive and I've never endured a grinding toothache, but can't imagine much worse. My broken wrist hurt, but once it was iced and elevated it was OK, and once wrapped and then casted it was just inconvenient. No nagging, throbbing pain. (sorry 'bout the confusion, I'm embarrassed but it won't kill me).

    Suzy, I'm not sure I really remember you... but hey! it doesn't really matter. I'm sorry about your elderly kitties, but really curious about your new one. ;) We're watching the matriarch decline... Floey is getting weaker, more arthritic, but at nearly 18 she's still getting around and eating whatever pleases her. She drinks more and pees more (indicates kidney issues), but as long as she's comfortable and her coat looks good it's OK. We make sure she had warm, snuggly "woolies" in places that get direct sunlight. But the DECISION looms. :(

    And so, to Sue... I'm sorry there was nothing definitive about Zoe. Rex has a case of hip dysplasia (the left one)... not so egregious to require euthanasia or corrective surgery at this time... but the specte looms. As the vet. said, "he could be basically functionally sound, with occasional lameness for the next 8-10 yrs.". His advice was to do nothing, keep him at "fighting weight", and sit tight. A hip X ray for hip dysplasia isn't in the same ballpark as an MRI, but the "corrective" surgery damn sure is. It's the NOT knowing that is the worst. And that, I understand!

    'bug, the blanket is GORGEOUS. Heirloom quality, just as it ought to be. :)

    Wendy, thanks for being so diplomatic. I sure hope the Iris bloom for you this year! they are so pretty and they smell so good (something lacking in more modern varieties). I can't kill them... just make sure the rhizones are visible above the soil level, the soil drains well, and they have strong sun.

    I'm holding out good hope for Deanne's on Saturday. The forecast has swung from 6-12" to 2-5" with freezing rain... who knows?! But I'm planning on a Tabouli salad, good lord willin', and the creek don't rise.

    I know I've forgotten too many, but that's how it goes, sometimes, kids.

  • michelle_zone4
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Ditto what 'bug said!!! Lets just move forward.

  • cynthia_gw
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'll tell you, Marian's response to Mary, who has got to be one of the kindest and most tactful people I've ever known is the ugliest thing I've seen here. Moving on is fine, but I think some apologies are in order. If the Idylls are going to be splattered with Marian's displaced anger on a daily basis, I will take this to the moderators of Gardenweb. There is no need for it. I've been silent, but I have had enough.

  • Marian_2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good Lord Chelone ! I "Never share my feelings" ???????
    What in the world have I been saying, if it is not my feelings! What do you want me to do? Cry and wail?
    I have asked for understanding, and I get more jabs!
    Yes, I am the 'poor white trash', why should I be of any concern to those who are not. Yes, I am not in to partying, and whoopie cushions...why should anyone like a nerd like that! Yes I am a believer in God and His word. That is the biggest offense!
    Why do I keep coming back here? Because I liked you all !
    I guess that is another of my failings!

    Apparently the 4 years of 'good' posts from me were all for naught. Now that I have been having another 'down' time everybody gang up and get in their kicks! If that is what friends do, who needs enemies!

    One more time>>>>I wish I had not posted when I was feeling low, but I did, and no one is going to let me forget it!

  • chelone
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    You've done plenty of that already. And that's the point.

    Answer the questions I asked of you and quit whining.

    I'm done now.

  • Sue W (CT zone 6a)
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Marian, if participating on this forum is causing you so much anguish, why do you continue to do so? In the past couple of days I've been watching a trend develop here that disturbs me. You seem to enjoy dropping in out of the blue to toss negative flaming generalities under the guise of expressing your opinion or "sharing" your feelings but can't deal with the dissenting opinions that follow. Understand that whenever you choose to "hang it out there" you run the risk that there will be people who have opposing views. Anyone who disagrees with you here is accused of being negative, lacking self esteem, beating up on poor sick old crabby woman, or whatever the crutch de jour may be. Quite frankly the only negative adjectives I've ever seen associated with your name on this forum have been written by you. As others have said before me this has got to be one of the most caring and tolerant group of people I've had the pleasure to know. Some of us are religious and political, some aren't, some of us drink, some don't, some of us are silly whoopie cushion fans and some aren't. If we were all the same, what a boring world this would be.

    One of the benefits of "working like a man" for me is I've developed the tolerance of men when it comes to nonsense and cattiness and I gotta tell ya...I've had enough. If you can't deal with this group in a positive way then I strongly suggest you find another place to hang out.

    Sue

  • chelone
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'm sorry I wasn't absolutely clear in my prior post. So here it is, Marian:

    You must tell us how you're feeling BEFORE you decide to indulge your suppressed anger in attacks on the very people most likely and ABLE to help you through a bad time.

    Get your backside off the "pity potty", step up to the mic., and start gettin' HONEST about how things are with you in your life. You'll be amazed at how thoughtful and wonderfully generous this group can be.

    NOW I'm done.

  • Lara Noles
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'm going to step up here and tell you Marian that I agree with everything that's been said above. Everyone here has gone out of their way to be kind to you but it is never enough. You seem to think that you can pop in with your meanness and intolerance whenever you please and then turn around and be all sweetness the next time. I wrote a post earlier saying I'd had as much as I was going to take of you and then thought about the toothpaste and deleted it. But I'm saying it now. What you've been pulling here is nonsense. Either get with the program and play nice or go away.

    Eden

  • gardeningmary
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Chelone - I haven't heard anything back from the vioin teacher I contacted. When I asked DH what I should do next he suggested perhaps I could send her a picture of a knife.

  • veronicastrum
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    For about one half-second I thought Deanne had a great idea about stopping by Home Goods on Sunday. And then I remembered that I was flying

    No trip to Home Goods tonight. Way too long of a day at work. There was supposed to be a software installation this morning, and everything that you can think of went wrong, short of crashing the entire system. The new program is NOT installed and will not be until after my vacation day. Then in the afternoon, a new customer dropped in with no notice and I ended up spending 2 ½ hours with him, doing an order line by painstaking line. Now, I know that customers are the ones who ultimately fund my paycheck, but this was really not the day for this! I had to stay late to take care of some things (fortunately fax machines and voice mails are almost always available) but some issues that I had to discuss with other staff have been left undone as they went home while I was still taking the order.

    Hi Suzy! Some day, perhaps your Mystique, Woodys Misty and my Mystic could all get together?

    To steal a line from John Belushi, March has come in like a wildebeest! A good old thunderstorm this morning, which of course made my gravel driveway and the office gravel parking lot total slush pits. There was a very brief peak of sun about midday, and now the wind is just blasting away. We are supposed to get a couple of inches of snow overnight. Im hoping that it settles down by mid-day tomorrow so that my flight is not affected. Cross your idyll fingers and toes!

    At the risk of singling out just one container out of a lot of gorgeous containers, I have to say that I really liked bugs monochromatic fern pot with ferns in the pot and on the pot!

    Oh, Kathy, Im sorry to hear the news on your tooth problems. What a bummer

    Mary, dare I say that you slay me?

    Chelone, I sure hope that you can make it on Saturday! It will be so much fun to meet yet another idyller. I do enjoy your point of view.

    Eden, Im thinking of Meg and hoping she recovers quickly. Mono is no fun. Would you believe I had a food service job in college and I had to quit it because I had mono and they would not give me time off from work?

    Im going to throw my laundry in the dryer, tie a rope to the dogs so they dont blow away and then let them out for the last time, and finally crawl into bed and polish off the last 30 pages of "The Omnivores Dilemna". Then I can plan some light reading for the weekends trip. (DD enticed me into a bookstore yesterday and we both had way too much fun. I have always shamelessly indulged my kids when it comes to books, but since I have not bought them a single video game ever, I think on whole thats okay!)

    Well if I keep on going, I will end up writing a post like Edens (smile) so Id better just go.

    V.

    (Honey allee, allee outs in free!)

  • deanneart
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good grief! Marian, nobody on this forum has ever labeled you any of the things you have called yourself. This is the most diverse, intelligent, interesting, talented and tolerant group of people Ive ever had the pleasure of knowing. I do not understand why you are so angry or why you continue to fire off so much of your anger at the people on this forum. Im sorry this group is not living up to your expectations but perhaps it is time to reevaluate what you are looking for in this forum. People here have been kind to you and been supportive of you. This group doesnt deserve your anger and veiled accusations. Let us return to our enjoyment of the joys of gardening.

    Deanne

  • taryn
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Marian, I truly believe we have all been very supportive of your trials and tribulations. We are all supportive of ALL OF OUR trials and tribulations! This is SUCH a fantatastic group of people here! My heart just shrinks into this tiny uncomfortable ball when I read some of the stuff that has been posted here lately. It makes me sad, and mad!

    Hey, we ALL have issues of one kind or another! That is LIFE! How we deal with them tells what kind of metal you are made of. I have been INCREDIBLY hurt by one very, very thoughtless individual who continues to post away constantly. SHE has a problem. I don't. BUT, I am not going to cheapen and maybe even destroy the fantastic repoir I've built with others because one person is a thoughtless moron. That would be silly. Life goes on...

    Please Marian, don't alienate yourself with no good cause...

    Taryn

  • Lara Noles
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    That knife's freaking me out so I say lets end this unpleasantness and move on. Hope you don't mind T, but I'm ending your thread early and starting a new one wishing for a return to happiness and peace. OK I'm drawing a line and hoping no one crosses it with anything nasty.

    Eden

    ___________________________________________________________

  • gardeningmary
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Thank you Eden. I also vote that phrases such as "thoughtless moron" be kept from the next thread. There has been way too much name calling here lately, it is hurtful and must STOP.

    Mary

  • chelone
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning. While I appreciate the desire to "move on" and heartily agree with it, there is something unfinished about an Idyll stalled out at a paltry 70 something posts. Just seems sacreligious somehow. I'll defer, if you all insist, but for now:

    Old Man Winter arrived in the predawn hours; it really quite pretty and we only have an inch or so right now but it appears to be picking up nicely. I don't have to work today and the helpmeet has been looking for an excuse to blow off work, knowing that the chaos of "busy season" is but a few weeks away. I jostled him this morning, teasing him that he was going to be "late for work". ;) I smell sausage... . Mmmm I bought a roasting chicken yesterday, thinking a late afternoon "dinner" would be a nice treat for a snowy, stormy day. (the animals will like it, too).

    'bug, what exactly does "blocking" involve and why is it done on knitted items? Mum used to knit all the time (I treasure the patterned mittens she used to make me) and I remember her blocking things but never bothered to ask why.

    Woody, I'm going to save your Amaryllis directions. I'm pretty good at following directions and think if I put reminders in the weekly calendar I might just be able to nurse them through to the next year. I have been apply fertilizer in the watering of the bulbs after the blooms have faded. Your's are just lovely. For years I have covetted a variety called "Picotee", all white with a thin red accent around the petal tips. I've only seen them the White Flower Farm catalog and they're expensive... I'm too cheap to spend that sort of money only to toss them out with the trash in the spring. (gotta be that Yankee thing!).

    And speaking of the "Yankee thing", I have excellent news to report on our electric bill! I missed the organized "turn off the electricity" event, but freaked out when I received December's bill... in the mid $90 range! it was the same for January. I've been watching it inch up over the past years, but decided it was time to get serious about it. So, I installed surge protection "strips" to the TV/stereo system, "my" computer, and the helpmeet's computer and all his musical recording equipment. We unplugged all the battery rechargers that weren't in use, and we've dutifully installed those energy saving flourescent bulbs in lamps. It's taken some time to get in the swing, turning off the strips to halt the unnecessary use of electricity to appliance that arent' really "Off", but here are the results: KWH used went from 655 in January to 354 for February! The last bill was $98, this one is $54. I know there were Christmas lights for December and January and the days were shorter and darker, but still, I'm very pleased with the results. There is a reason so many appliances are called "vampires". I will be interested to track the results over the course of the year. We don't heat water with electricity and we don't have air conditioning, either.

    Mary, I cracked up at the suggestion to send the picture of a knife. The helpmeet plays bass and has a very nice voice. He plays at piano, but lately has really been working on his voice (doing the vocal exercises), and I hear a great deal of Bobby Darin, Curis Potts and Leon Rausch (west Texas swing) drifting out of the music room. I have always told him I think the character of his voice is wonderfully suited to "standards" and even I can hear the increase in, umm, I don't know the right word for it... well the ease with which he can now reach and hold notes farther from each other. Make sense?

    I've been wondering about what the fireplace insert people had to say about Taryn's fireplace. I must have missed it, so could you refresh me?

    Eden, your daughter has Mono? what a bummer. How long is she going to be laid up. As I recall, that's one that requires time and rest to put asunder, isn't it? Sounds like a tall order with a toddler zipping around. :/

    OK, I'll leave it there for now and move to the new Idyll if you insist...

  • Marian_2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    The Truth? The truth is that I am hurting...I am hurting mentally, physically, and yes...spiritually. For the final time: I am not...was not, angry at anyone....no matter how many times you tell me that I am! I am needing HELP! I was asking for help.
    Yes, it is a shame that I caused others so much pain also. I WAS NOT meaning to do so.
    I do not have conversations with anyone like I was looking for here. Not even my immediate family.
    I agonized for hours last night, then finally did what I should have done. I prayed to God. I found relief and peace.

    Here is the song that came to me:

    'When peace like a ri-ver, at-tend-eth my way,
    When sor-rows like sea-bil-lows roll,
    What-ev-er my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
    "It is well,it is well with my soul.

    Tho' Sa-tan should buf-fet, tho' tr-ials should come,
    Let this blest as-sur-ance control,
    That Christ hath re-gard-ed my help-less es-tate,
    And hath shed His own blood for my soul,

    My sin--O the bliss of this glo-ri-ous tho't!
    - My sin - not in part but the whole,
    Is nailed to His cross and I bare it no more,
    Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

    And, Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight,
    The clouds be rolled back as a scroll,
    The trump shall re-sound, and the Lord shall de-scend,
    "E-ven so" it is well with my soul.

    It is well, with my soul, It is well, it is well with my soul.'

    All the things I said about myself are my own thoughts, not anyone elses. It is how I think of myself.

    I will not trouble any of you anymore... but will welcome any positive support I can get from you all...including you, Cynthia.

  • chelone
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I know you're hurting, Marian, we all do. We can't help you with your physical pain or your spiritual needs, those are up to you. You really need to apologize to the gang, Marian. If you are willing take a few moments to explain to us what is troubling you most right now, I've no doubt the usual thoughtful and gentle suggestions will pour forthe. But you must be honest and direct, and you mustn't think it will be "all about you" because it isn't "all about" any single one of us.

    The words to that song/hymn? are lovely. Do you know its title or who wrote it? And how did you come to know it?

    (I had to look up how to spell "hymn")

  • babs_clare
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    What the? I'm unable to check in for a day or two and come back to THIS??
    Yeah I know you found peace last night BUT...I am just utterly astounded at you Marian. My heart is racing from anger and disbelief. I do try to see where you are coming from. I too don't like to say things that might come off as judgemental since I don't know what your life is really like. I just don't-none of us Idylls CAN. This is a computer forum. We are not a support group for emotionally distressed people which you definitely are. You read into us no matter what we say or don't say. I don't understand why you are putting such expectations on us. You need help that we can't offer because we are enclosed in a computer monitor & keyboard. You need real bodies talking to you with eye contact and ears to hear what you are saying.

    Regular hospitals do have services to help or they might have knowledge of a place that might help you. Even a counseling hotline might help.
    You are isolated yes, but you have all these church group people you know. ASK SOMEONE to help you with Nolon so you can get out and talk to a professional. Talk to your pastor. Do they know the real you? Christian people should certainly understand when one of their own are asking for help...

    Yes by all means go on your trip to see your family but you still need professional help.
    Don't you dare post another pic like the one toward Mary(she is one of the most kind/caring people I know)-that pic is just unforgiveable-talk about premeditative by the time it was posted online!!!! and I agree with Cynthia that you continue that and to the webmaster I go-that is threatening and not allowed here and might even be more punishable than you realize.

    While I completely understand Eden needs to start new by leaving this #306 thread to continue on I just couldn't go on to the new thread without saying what I really feel before I start on a new foot.

    ~Babs

  • just_t
    Original Author
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I, too, decided that I needed to stand with my other Idyll friends and say how upset, distressed and bothered I am by the attack on Eden, Sue, Mary and others in these past few days by Marian.

    To those who just read the Idylls and never post and to those who are newer to posting to the Idylls, I feel that you should know that this mean and hateful behavior, by Marian has been going on for a long time. She is not responsive to any compassion or suggestions that are made. She is always demanding more attention and getting mean when she doesn't get to be the center of attention. If anyone has a problem, hers is worse (as we recently saw with the 'knee' post). She says she is ignored but how often is a "HELLO MARIAN" written at the bottom of a post. That is done because we are all weary of her ranting and raving about not being missed or acknowledged so we go out of our way to fulfill her need for acknowledgement and attention.

    She plays games where she will not post for a few days so that she'll capture attention in that way. Someone will ask "where is Marian" and then she reappears. It happens over and over again---and this has gone on for years.

    When someone has a death in the family or some other horrible circumstance, she rarely responds to comfort them. Her life and her posts are often centered on herself.

    I realize she has had a difficult life and that she feels trapped. But it is obvious that she is not looking towards solving the problems with the help of those in her church or community. All she appears to want to do is to complain about it. I cannot help but wonder how difficult it must be to live with someone as angry and bitter as she comes across as being.

    Her behavior, negativity and mean comments have driven some people from this group. Some do return after a period of time, but the injuries and hurt she inflicts remains. She often compared herself to EP, who was much enjoyed and loved on this group. EP was run off a few times by her (EP told me this numerous times). EP strove to be kind, responsive and supportive. It angered her to be drug into a "EP and I" comparison. She was not one who complained no matter what the heartbreak and hard times that life handed her. She was a gentle soul and she did attempt to reach out in kindness as the rest of us have done. But there is a point that everyone hits, when you can only turn the other cheek or listen to negativity before you tire of it. She hit that point (as many of us have) a number of times, then she would leave the group until she could ignore it once again.

    One of the points that has been made time and time again is that Marian feels that she is an outcast because she is a Christian. Well, I do not see much of a Christ like attitude in what she has shared over the years. She often throws in our faces that 'she knows where she is going' as if there are no others in the group that will also know eternal life. Being a Christian is much more than saying you believe in God and that you believe your sins are forgiven through Jesus' death on the cross. If a person is truly a believer in Christ then you will strive to walk through life in a way that shows kindness, consideration, acceptance and love. Being humans we don't always walk in that way.......but the world should be able to see that we are what we profess to be by the majority of our words and actions. I do not see that in Marian and it weighs heavy on my mind that people reading her posts over the years will have an opportunity to say "if that is a Christian and a Christian like attitude then why in the world would I want to be a Christian".

    I'm writing all of this, not to be hurtful to someone who is obviously unhappy and hurting, but to explain to those who may be reading what has transpired in the past few days and be wondering how so many of us could be upset over this last happening. It may not seem like a huge thing that Marian has done, but what it is all about is that Marian has done this for years and people are fed up.

    We do not deserve nor want the nastiness to continue in a place where we come to enjoy each other. We are tired of constantly trying to fill Marian's needs when she is never happy with what we can offer. Someone said 'don't alienate yourself from the group'......well, to me it is already done. I will never, after this post, acknowledge anything that Marian writes. She no longer exists in the Idyll group as far as I'm concerned.

    Now, as a Christian my decision bothers me a bit. I do strive to be a kind, loving and supportive person. It is the way I've been for years and I continue to work on getting rid of the 'nasties' in my own life. To turn my back on someone who is obviously unhappy and dissatified with life, doesn't seem very Christ like. I'm going to have to keep thinking about that and also work on figuring out if my decision is a good one or a bad one. ;o) But it is the decision I've made. I no longer will allow the poison from her anger to invade my life in any way.

    There was also another post by a member that was hurtful and unneccessary last night. I was reminded of Michelle's analogy of words being like toothpaste squeezed out of a tube and how we cannot put the toothpaste back into the tube once we've squeezed it out. My shock and disbelief at the nasty tone and name calling in that post will stick with me for a long time.

    Now, I'm going to reread this, and decide if these words are ones I want to squeeze out of my toothpaste tube. ;o) I have a feeling that I am going to hit the submit button because I've had these thoughts for a long time and it is time for me to stand up for what I believe in and say 'this isn't right and should not be allowed to continue any longer'.

    Eden, Sue and Mary are some of the kindest people I know....for them to be attacked in such a rude manner with no apology or remorse---only more 'woe is me, you are all so mean' is, to me, unexcusable and things like this have been allowed to continue for far too long.

    T.

  • wendy2
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I feel I have to say this before I can move on.

    Marian, the knife picture is totally out of line. It is hurtful and upsetting, and it has no place here.

    I hope you can find positive support through your church or some professional counselling, because I don't think we are equipped to give you what you seem to need.

    -Wendy

  • woodyoak zone 5 southern Ont., Canada
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'm staying out of this one! I do have to say though - re the knife picture - I suspect you've all misinterpreted that. When I saw it, I saw it as a reference to Mary's DH's comment on sending a picture of a knife to the violin teacher. I think Marian was just somewhat tongue-in-cheek suggesting that here was the knife picture to send.... I suspect everyone now is too deep into the emotional reaction to consider that as the real meaning of that post, but I think that is the right interpretation.

  • Lara Noles
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    How can that be Woody when Marian posted the picture at 7:30pm last night and Mary's comment was made later at 9:52pm?

  • woodyoak zone 5 southern Ont., Canada
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Sorry - I was reading the thread in reverse order so it looked the other way around in my quick skim... so I guess the cause and effect, so to speak, is the other way around. However, nothing I've seen in the past from Marian's posts would lean me to interpret that as a threat - more likely an ill-judged attempt to express her hurt. Because of my own situation which leads me to periodic emotional overloads, and seeing a friend with problems with macular degeneration blow up regularly, I guess I'm more inclined to see Marian's bouts as sign of a person in distress. When you're in circumstances like that, often things get said and done that you know are unwise and that you will regret later but seem helpless to stop yourself from doing and saying. My reaction to Marion is colored by my personal experiences so perhaps I'm wrong but I still see her as someone crying for help - in the wrong place to get it, true.

  • michelle_zone4
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Woody, the knife was posted first by Marian. I think Mary handled it with dignity by trying to laugh it off, but it was nasty. It was done with plenty of thought.

    I agree with T, it bothers me that Marian thinks that she is the only person here who believes in God and I know that her attitude at Christmas is upsetting to many. She "doesn't do Christmas" fine, but don't critize those who do. As well as the fact that many idylls enjoy a little wine and that is critized as well. It isn't immoral or illegal.

    I had a hard time sleeping last night because of all of this and I hope that we can get past it.

    I agree that Marian's life is hard and maybe depressing, but we all go thru times like that. When I first joined the Idylls, my DD was 18, unmarried and pregnant and there were many hard times in the 2 years preceeding. I went thru one very depressing winter and then decided that I needed to help myself. I couldn't change my situation, but I could make the best of it. Things have changed dramatically, but who knows when the next hard time will come. Joining the Idylls and getting to meet many of them last summer has been a great blessing in my life. What a bunch of caring women. Lets not destroy it. Also, I really don't appreciate name calling. We are much to old for that.

    I hope Marian that you can get whatever kind of help you need, but it always works both ways, either here on the Idylls or with your friends and church members. I suggest that you talk with your Dr. and minister about how you are feeling.

    Michelle

  • martieinct
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Now I get it. I hadn't finished reading this thread before I read the other one. If I'd been reading along this week I probably wouldn't have ever wanted to come back -- Idylls is for garden talk and relaxation and friendship and support and every other kind of Good thing you can think of. This week was frantic enough without my source of "relief" being all up in arms.

    Marian, I must agree that behavior like what you've exhibited is what gives "Christians" a bad rap to people who are not so orthodox. Heck, anyone who exhibits behavior like that needs to take many steps back, pick up a phone, and ask someone for help. Threatening (how else could it be taken?) is not a productive way to exhibit hurt, and is actually as illegal on the web as in person. Assault is assault.

    I'm hopeful that this whole debacle doesn't seriously "injure" the Idylls. From the looks of the other thread it won't. We are strong people, one of the smartest groups I have the pleasure of knowing, and I don't want to have any Idyll go away as a result. But, Marian, it will take a strong apology. One that is sincere and very directed, to get me to "listen" to you again. I'm sorry, but I need to take care of myself first.

    Martie

  • chelone
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Here's how I saw the pictured link:

    "Et tu Brute'"

    Brutus killed Ceasar with a knife.

    It wasn't a "threat"! offensive? YEAH and mean? YEAH. But threatening? UNHUH (a ham-handed attempt to "prove" intellectual depth is more probable.)

  • taryn
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Hello,
    I am regretting using the word "moron" -- thoughtless "actions" would have been less harsh. As I said, we all have issues with some people, and some buttons are easily pushed. Being an infallible and imperfect human being myself, I'm no exception. "Moron" was uncalled for. BUT, and this is a BIG BUT, it can hardly be called "name-calling" when I haven't named anyone! And won't. Stuff happens, to everyone, and we have to deal with it. But sometimes no good comes from airing it here, is what I was trying to get across. I personally believe what goes around comes around, and the karma police are always working to balance everything. Still, it was an error in judgement and not one of my finer moments.

    My whole point was that when an Idyller's feelings get hurt, intentionally or not, it doesn't HAVE to be aired out in public on the Idylls threads. I doubt that there is a single person here who has not, at some point, felt snubbed/insulted/ignored/invisible or some other connotation of that. 4 1/2 years of 25+ people communicating in a way that lacks facial expression, body language and voice inflection--of course sometimes feelings will be hurt! And when that happens, you can suck it up and ignore it, or deal with it privately, without dragging everyone else through it. You can run away forever like several have, or take a break for a while like others have, or pop in less often, or retreat to lurkdom. You can decide there is enough good to make tolerating the negative incidents worth it, like I have. There are different ways to handle disagreements and hurt feelings, is what I meant to convey. I guess I didn't phrase that very well last night, and my apologies to those who took offense. I certainly didn't mean to add to the nastyness/ugliness...I hope we can all get past this.

    Nice to see the fresh start idyll going along pleasantly. Hi to Susy and Lauren, and hope Deanne's SYNAWP goes great tomorrow...Look forward to seeing pics.

    Taryn

  • martieinct
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Chelone, I understood the message Marian was trying to send, but it was directed very much toward Mary. I understand that Marian was trying to say that Mary stabbed her, and that perhaps the knife would help that stab go deeper, but there are lines, and Marian crossed a huge one. Anyone who would post anything like that, IMHO, is threatening to just think of such a thing. What would be next? I've tried and tried to "get" Marian and have all-out attempted to be particularly attentive and nice. That said, anyone who would try to make a point with such a graphic is beyond my understanding in this type of forum, cyber or otherwise.

    Good that we can disagree a bit, Huh???? LOL

    Martie

  • minu
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Okay, I just had to post. I am a regular luker here, unknown to all of you, stopping by occasionally to delight in the pictures and have over the years become familiar with the posters, regular or otherwise. My observations, as an outsider:

    I am astounded that all of you who rushed so valiantly to Mary's defense were not in the least bothered by the uncalled for mean-spiritedness in her loaded comment "But I'm curious, do you interact with your family the same way you interact with the Idylls?' Can you guys not see that this was what hurt Marian the most, was the "unkindest cut of all" especially coming from oh-so-sweet and kind and caring Mary? That it made her feel like an outcast? That SHE is the aggrieved one here?

    I agree that Marian overreacted with the knife picture, but it also indicates how much Mary's comment hurt her. To talk about reporting here because of that, and the torrent of abuse that has been heaped on her just shows everybody's true colors. T, I disagree with the summary you posted about Marian. She has been outspoken and blunt but never, ever intentionally mean. As an outsider to the little clique here, to me she seemed one of the few who was genuine, the rest seemed to be intent on just showing their "kind, caring, empathetic" side until this episode proved just how vicious you all can be.

    Lest you all think I'm Marian's crony, rest assured, I have never had any contact with her or anyone else on this group, am an atheist, and about as far from her world-view as one can be. However, I have always admired her resilience at her age, her remarkable intelligence and conviction in her beliefs, and of course share her love for plants and gardening. And I come from a culture where age deserves some respect.

    Please do not send me emails on this issue. I have no desire to debate this further. I always viewed this group as something of an anomaly on the Web, but unfortunately it was too good to be true. Do not blame Marian for this - the rest of you were the schoolyard bullies here, rushing to defend your clique member blindly.

    Returning to lurkdom......

    M

  • gardenbug
    17 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    M, I can't leave your view unchallenged.

    Yes, the pack mentality did occur. Nothing to be proud of.

    I happen to know that behind the scenes caring took place.

    And that life moves onward.

Sponsored
Grow Landscapes
Average rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars8 Reviews
Planning Your Outdoor Space in Loundon County?