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cynthia_gw

Idyll #388: A good year for hydrangeas

cynthia_gw
15 years ago

Especially the macrophyllas!

{{gwi:165837}}

Comments (101)

  • prairiemoon2 z6b MA
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning. :-)

    I feel like I have been up for hours. Oh, wait, I guess that is because I have been. [g] My new wake up time seems to be 2-3am. I gave up trying to figure out what the reason is and just go with the flow. I have been suddenly dealing with dizziness which is new for me. I keep waiting for it to clear up, but going into week three and it is still a problem, so scheduled a doctor visit this week. Maybe the dizziness and sleeplessness go together. Regardless, my plan is to fully enjoy being up at that hour. :-) I just came in from a tour of the garden by flashlight. Surprised to see a lot fewer insects than last year. Very happy to see no earwigs, which were a real problem the year before. The Butterfly Bush has buds, and I am expecting once that starts blooming I might see a lot more. I'm also thinking of starting some kind of project, like hand sewing or embroidering blocks for a quilt or something interesting.

    I was disappointed that there is nothing fragrant in the garden right now. Usually by this time there are at least Four OClocks at night. It is very hot and sticky here too. Wasn't it just a few days ago, I was cold? After all the gray days and scattered thunderstorms, I see I am still going to have to get the hose out today. The Hydrangea bed is looking dry again already. Our first Hydrangeas never bloomed for us, so I gave them away. When we started renovating the backyard, I decided to remedy that, so we added, Endless Summer, Annabelle and Oakleaf, all of which are now blooming. I don't remember what we had to look at in July before that. I'll try to get a photo soon.

    Michelle....how do you like your 'Limelight'?

    Look at Kathy leading the life of Riley! What a view! I am with Martie, wishing for the life of Mr Baby...lol. What a happy face!

    Pretty squash blossoms Martie.

    Hope you feel better soon Saucy! Summer is not supposed to be a time for catching things, is it?

    Gardenbug....love that Prairie Joy with the Clematis. Pretty combination. I like white and pink together a lot. How exciting that you have grown that catalpa from seed. I hope your family is suitably impressed. :-)

    We went to see a movie yesterday. 'Wall E', the new Pixar offering. It was one of the few movies reviewed recently with four stars. It was very enjoyable and provided almost two hours of non stop smiling. Some people have such an imagination! I am not sure it is a movie that kids can actually appreciate as much as an adult can. There were kids in the theatre but I don't remember hearing any belly laughs. It has an interesting message that the plot is based on, and I think a lot of the humor is subtle and might be over a kid's head. I found some irony in the fact that creating computer animated movies seems to be contradictory to the message of the movie, but I won't say more than that, not to ruin seeing it for anyone. Their last two offerings have not been appealing to me. I tried watching Cars twice and just couldn't get interested in it and Ratatouille...well...I just could not watch a movie where the cast are a bunch of rats. Toy Story remains my favorite from Pixar.

    What do you think of how close to the water, these houses are?

    {{gwi:165918}}

    The uniformly whitewashed cottages of Pennan, Scotland, line up around a quiet cove in Moray Firth as boats rest within a small manmade harbor. The town has been in existence for over a thousand years but gained international fame in the 1980s as the fictional village of Ferness in the popular movie Local Hero.

    (Photo shot on assignment for, but not published in, "Celt Appeal," March 2006, National Geographic magazine)

  • ctlavluvr
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning from the house where one can barely see out the windows for the condensation. We left the A/C on last night but sleeping was still hard. No complaints, but looking forward to a break and some dry air ....

    Had to LOL when I went to an upscale restaurant yesterday for a meeting, and on the lunch menu was squash blossoms (deep fried with some "lemon herb sprinkling") for a mere $10 for two. I could make a killing as a market gardener this week :-)

    The talk of David Austin and hardy roses in general has me swooning for more. Since it's the perfect year for grubs and thus Japanese beetles, it'll be interesting to see if Rich's methods to eradicate them have worked.

    Hmmmmmmmm, Kathy. San Fran or thereabouts to New York?? The Beatles Anthology might do the trick :-) Or the complete history of Motown. Or the entire Harry Potter series on tape. It's a rugged flight, for sure. Fuzzy slippers will help. Are you picking up V. in Chicago on the way?

    Since I've been completely out of the loop, who IS going to IU5?? (No details necessary).

    Off to try and get some alertness to go with "awake" and see what the day brings.

    Best -

    Martie

  • deanneart
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning,

    For some reason Ive had to log in again this morning and then I had real problems opening the page. Go figure. We are in for another hot, humid day in the mid 90s. Ugh! Youd think after I lost those fuchsias after the last heat wave Id have been smart enough to move them out of the sun when the temps exceeded 90 again, nope, Im a dope! So Ive got two marginal fuchsias again and another that is about to hit the compost heap. Le sigh! The poor Endless Summer was all wilted yesterday afternoon with its short dose of sun in the afternoons. It does OK usually but does not like the heat one little bit. Im going to have to rig a mister for it or it will get crisped in the next couple days. Im again at the point where I have everything planted except for two pots of tricyrtis. Must be time to go plant shopping again. LOL

    Martie, Id like to see what a deep fried squash blossom looks like. Interesting!

    PM sorry you arent feeling well. Doug had a bout of dizziness a few weeks ago and the doctor thought it had to do with allergies and fluid in the middle ear. Hes been fine since but it was worrisome. Hope you feel better soon. ~~ Have you thought of including a fragrant azalea in your gardens. Ive just planted one and it smells fantastic.

    Kathy, Ive had a few of those never again mornings with my favorite Glenlivet 18 year Scotch. Yum but moderation is a must. LOL ~~ I dont envy you the trip east for IU5. I used to teach on the west coast a few times a year and the trip can be tedious. But, just think of what a great time we are going to have!

    V. bummer about the stomach bug. Hope youre feeling better today. ~~ Always a neat time of the year when you can start harvesting the first veggies.

    Great pics bug! I just love catalpa flowers!

    Jerri, I have leather furniture and yes the cats do race around and scratch it.

    Saucy, get well soon! ~~ How are the bees?

    OK here are a few pretties from yesterday

    Echinacea Double Delight
    {{gwi:165919}}

    Echinacea Razzmatazz
    {{gwi:165920}}

    Jolyene Nicole
    {{gwi:165921}}

    Regale
    {{gwi:165922}}

    Calla Flame
    {{gwi:165923}}

    Arabella
    {{gwi:165924}}

    Polish Spirit
    {{gwi:165925}}

    {{gwi:165926}}

    Have a great day everyone, stay cool!
    Deanne

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Martie, I was going to post the deep fried in batter squash blossom recipe for you. It is a delicacy in Provence that I adore! Do try it!

    DS & friend highly recommend 'Wall E'. They hope it sends a message to the younger folks too.

    Pea soup weather continues here...but the garden is flourishing along with the weeds. An amazing year.
    Fascination
    {{gwi:165927}}

    Kaiu
    {{gwi:165928}}

    Madame Julia Correvon
    {{gwi:165929}}

    Pagoda
    {{gwi:165930}}

    Later folks. Exercise routine in my near future...
    'bug

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    For Deanne and Martie, see below for Beignets de fleurs de courgettes!

    And here, I LOL at this little elf. Here's what he thinks of his first camping experience:
    {{gwi:165931}}

  • chloehoover
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    'bug - that last photo of the "elf" is priceless - a wonderful shot - it would bring a smile to anyone's face who saw it!

    We're in the hots and sticky too; I forced myself to the grocery store after work as no food in the house had been making me eat a lot of PB by spoon for dinner --- eeks, things are bad when Im doing that....then after the evening jaunt w/ the dog w/ a one-legged poodle cut, I forced myself into the yard for some late hose hitting of drooping plants and dying flowers....

    Kathy - I meant to say that that variegated hydrangea is incredible -- I was going to say I'd never seen one w/ so much variegation, but when I really looked, I decided it was that along w/ the lacecaps that gives it the "white" effect -- absolutely stunning - o dear, another on the wish list.... So, should we figure no bourbon should be available for you at IU5, LOL? we want to see you the mornings after ... I seem to recall that Chelone is a great bartender, so watch out! Or should we just hit a local NY store for assortments of local brewery options? It's all about gardens, plants, (some) mild drinking -- alchoholic or non -- laughter, laughter, and comraderie -- you'll overdose on all of the above.

    Here in awfice world, Im trying not to stress over the fact that apparently they're moving my office next week that Friday Im gone and somehow Im supposed to have packed it all in advance, done some critical deadline work, and a client has a crisis deadline -- the inadequacies of planning by the administration never changes.... I am repeating the mantra "one can only do so much"....

    Im sorry you're feeling punk, PM2, -- no sleep or waking up too early is horrible - I get that periodically but usually when Im worrying or thinking thru things. I read recently that tai chi is apparently really helpful for people to sleep -- some new study - I wonder if there's a moderate version you would learn?

    Lovin lovin all the photos! Countdown to IU. Im starting to think of all the things I need to get or prep for (new memory disk for camera, list for dog walker, etc...)

    --Cindy

  • saucydog
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Well, I'm feeling human again this morning! Finally found a cough suppressant that works and I got a good night's sleep :) While researching, I found that dark chocolate (specifically theobromine) is an excellent cough suppressant (better than codeine)....I could make millions if I came up with a dark chocolate cough medicine :)

    And another tidbit, I thought of for distressed dogs: 50% of the cases of dogs being frightened during storms are due to the increased static electricity in their coats: at the first sign of a storm, rub them down with a fabric softener sheet!

    Sarah, Jake, and I begin our watercolor lessons today, LOL....we're learing via the internet! Our school system has an excellent art program, and both the kids are anxious to teach me a thing or two....should be fun.

    Martie, those squash look so good to me....I LOVE the baby yellow squash. I'd split it down the middle, saute in butter for about a minute, sprinkle with fresh parmesan and enjoy!

    I am so excited about my clematis order from chalk hill and am loving the beautiful displays here! Wow, wow, wow, GB! And Deanne! And my goodness, Martie, Cornfield Manor (sorry, it stuck....) ahem, Park, is filling in so beautifully! Sue's garden is stunning and suspiciously looks as if she's been less than aggressive in the rest department, LOL!

    Kathy, I always take a shot of the view over my feet when I'm on vacation. Being the camera holder, it's often the only evidence that I was on the vacation :) Jovial describes Mr. Baby to a tee for me :)

    Reed is elfish in our latest picture! I failed to say how much I admire your daughter for her bravery - I'm afraid my head is mishapen :) I have pondered the sign up sheet at the gym....maybe this time I'll sign my name :)

    My neighbor is healing slowly, and I have been keeping the plants in pots alive by watering for her. She enjoys me filling the bird feeders and putting oranges out for the orioles. I spied her driving last night, so I think she is feeling better. It was nice to repay her for all that she has done for me and my family.

    OH! She let me borrow her night vision monacle! It was amazing what I could see! I watched the bees fan their hive on a hot night. Followed noises into the woods (our mink or fisher cat has been spied again) and was just generally enchanted with how the place looked....kind of greenish, but magical!

    The bees have been busy, and I spent an afternoon watching them. Sarah and I like to sit on the other side of the fence and watch the comings and goings. She notices new things in the garden which makes me happy.

    My camera is ticking me off as Sarah and I spent yesterday evening documenting the beginning of July in the garden, only to find that every picture is ruined by big distorted blocks of color. I think it's finally time that I bite the bullet....I'd love a recommendation on a camera with zoom....

    Time to get moving before it gets too hot to move....

    Saucy

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Saucy, I found Steve's a great camera site. This is what I researched on my camera a few years ago.

  • prairiemoon2 z6b MA
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Hi Saucy...I've had my camera for about a year and enjoy it very much. It's small, lightweight, a little bigger than a pocket size. I love the LCD screen that swivels, has zoom and a Micro function setting for close ups. Uses ordinary batteries and they last quite awhile before having to be replaced. I use mine on Automatic all the time. It is not Deanne's camera, but that would have been too much camera for me. So here is another one to consider, depending on what you are looking for.

  • prairiemoon2 z6b MA
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Since I am here...lol....

    Deanne...thanks for sharing about Doug's bout with the same thing. Sounds like he was still dealing with it for his BD. Glad he is feeling better. A fragrant azalea in July...what a great idea! Where did you find some? I love that 'Regale' Lily...it is hands down my favorite Lily. You did a great job of staking it. The buds on 'Arabella' are so cute and I love the almost black color of them. Very pretty!

    Gardenbug....Glad I am not the only adult who enjoys animated. [g] 'Fascination' has such a pretty habit and covered with blooms. Love that expression on the 'elf's' face. He seems to be having a wonderful childhood already.

    Cindy...thanks for that suggestion about tai chi. I imagine you are suggesting doing tai chi before bed. My primary care doctor is actually a Sleep Disorder specialist, although I didn't choose him for that reason. I have had many years of problems with sleeping and tried lots of strategies. I usually will eventually hit upon something that will get me back to sleeping six hours straight, but that is normally as good as it gets. I am always thrilled just to get that much though. Do you practice some form of tai chi?

    Saucy....I like the way you research...dark chocolate for coughs! [g] BTW, I tried to find my camera model for sale and not easy to find. Canon often takes a successful model and continues to offer newer versions with improvements, though.

    Haven't stepped out the door yet today. Hope everyone is staying cool. :-)

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

    All you dizzy people are not alone. I got out of bed at 3 AM to use the bathroom and was listing down the hallway. Figured it was because I had been in a sound sleep and was a bit disoriented. Two hours later I got up to go tend the dogs and almost passed out. Dizziness, sweating, nausea...I barely got them out and fed and had to go back to bed. A few hours later I tried again and this time managed to eat a little breakfast. Then took another break before hitting the shower. I finally made it into work at around 9:30 and feel much better now but still "off". Something must be going around but it better not linger. I don't have time for this crap...lol.

    Did someone say dark chocolate?

    Sue

  • michelle_zone4
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Rick helped me last night with the veggie garden. He mowed and bagged grass and I laid down newspapers to keep the weeds down. I just can't keep up if I don't do it. Purslane is a big problem in that garden. Its hard to get the roots and any little bit of leaf left sprouts. We are enjoying spinach, sugar snap peas, onions, radishes these days.

    'bug, the little elf's expression is priceless. That Fascination is wonderful. The catapula blooms are sure pretty. I remember as a kid our neighbors had several along the sidewalk. I dont recall the flowers but remember the seed pods.

    Pm, sorry to hear that you are becoming an unwilling night owl. The other morning Kenzie came in our room early and said and owl woke her up. As for Limelight, I really like it.

    Deanne, I love your echinaceas and that lily is a beaut.

    Woody, we have lots of humidity here in the summer. Since I got rid of the few hybrid teas that I had, I have never had a black spot problem on the roses I grow. Here's what a few of mine look like now.
    Morden Centennial:
    {{gwi:165932}}
    Nearly Wild rose:
    {{gwi:165933}}

    Sharifa Asma:
    {{gwi:165934}}

    I think Id better get out of here before I catch a bug. Hopefully, everyone is feeling better today.

    Michelle

  • anitamo
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Hi everyone. Sounds like the high temps abound, but not here today. It's high 70's with no humidity. Turned off the a/c...until tomorrow when the heat wave going on gets to us. I need some rain, though.

    kathy...love the vacation pic. It would make a great ad photo for a shoe company, "It's like a vacation everyday in our shoes!" LOL.The baby is adorable and so happy. Is this your grandchild? Love your variegated hydrangea. I have one, but it doesn't bloom in my zone, I just got it for the foliage.

    Sending get well wishes to saucy, v, pm2 and sue.
    PM2 and sue...can the dizziness be vertigo? It's a symptom of an underlying condition, so something to look into. My daughter had a case of it last summer, was checked out three times, diagnosed with vertigo. Pills helped (same type for motion sickness, but the underlying cause I believe was allergies and stress.

    'bug...congrats on the catalpa blooms. It is gorgeous. It's so satisfying to grow something from seed, not that I know from experience, :.(. It's something I want to start doing more of.

    I love hydrangeas and just started buying them within the last few years. My least favorite is the Endless Summer, the blooms are sparse. Last year, the late frost caused them to not bloom at all. Paniculatas and oak leaf are my favs. I did buy a couple more oak leafs from Bluestone, so I'm excited to see how they do in the next couple of years. Here's a shot of Paniculata "Quick Fire" I got this spring...

    {{gwi:165935}}

    {{gwi:165938}}

    I'll be back later. Stay cool everyone.
    Anita

  • chelone
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Why does hot and humid in New England usually coincide with hurried and harried? The only saving grace is that the cushions I've been working on are not VINYL. But they are uniformly large (for berths on a 65' ketch) and stuffing them has generated a lot of sweat. The shop has been sweltering and the nerves of the one "in charge" are somewhat raw. I haven't had the energy to do much except come home and "decompress". ;)

    I have done no reading. Hope all of you are well and I'll be able to catch up before too long. Painting should be finished tomorrow or Friday (thunderstorms, you know!). Poney tailed painter descended his ladder on Monday to come over and apologize to me for the time over-run. I was impressed. I gave him the final check yesterday, telling him I had complete confidence that he would complete the job, adding I didn't want him to have to wait or make a special trip to collect it. He's done a nice job and paid attention to details. And he knows how to chow down on the crow. ;)

    Marian, I FINALLY remembered to bring the tortured Dracenia home today. It's root system is enshrouded in a plastic bag that I compressed to force out the air. I have to hunt up a suitable pot. The root system is HUGE; should I give the biggest roots a prune (they were coiling around the 6"d pot)? and how big a pot should I prress into service? In the 6" pot it had two other buddies, one of whom died, the other was not worth saving but was a succulent of some sort. ???

    That's it for now, I have to read.

    Cynthia, I didn't do any sort of protection for my hydrangeas last winter. Predictably, the Nikko Blue folded its tent, the variegated lacecap followed suit, but the Tokyo Delights have some buds! I am presently hatching a plan for a mesh cocoon that can be stuffed with leaves to protect those lovely plants with minimal hassle. Your's are so lovely. Hope all your critters are faring well while you're away on your sad trip.

    I desperately want to share my awning expertise, too. I haven't forgotten, but you'll have to be patient. Please?

  • deanneart
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Well, I've had something in the back of my mind for the last couple days that I was trying to remember and it finally came to me.....

    Eden's Birthday was yesterday! Whoops! I think we need a new keeper of the list...

    Without further ado and with apologies for being a day late
    {{gwi:165939}}

  • flowerluvr
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Quickie post! Sorry to hear there seems to be a bug going around.
    The pictures are spectacular as ever. I have hydrangea envy..and I don't know if I even have a good spot to grow one!
    Mr. Baby and Reed are adorable. That hat is just too cute, and li'l Reed and that ear of corn.... :)
    The contractor is coming tomorrow to talk about the porch re-do. I think Jim is going to be able to run wheat, so that will simplify matters. Lol, of course, it would be even simpler if I came up missing, and let Jim talk. The entire conversation would consist of "What's the cheapest way I can get by." Contractor's answer inserted here. Jim, "Do that." I shudder to think what we'd end up with.
    Saucy, my camera is acting crazy, too. I had been thinking about getting a different one anyway, but now it looks like I might have to. It does crazy things with the color and part of the time the zoom doesn't work.
    Bug, I think it was you that mentioned the recall on Canon camera..is that right? I just noticed a couple of weeks ago that the batteries were really warm when I took them out. Need to go to their site and check it out.
    The feast at Sue's looks wonderful, and a late Happy Birthday to Doug!
    I've got ribs stewing in some beer for Jim to grill, I need to fish them out and get them seasoned.
    Howdy to all I missed, I know there was a bunch of stuff I wanted to comment on, but...
    Brenda

  • saucydog
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    {{gwi:165940}}

  • dodgerdudette
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Happy Birthday Eden !

    {{gwi:165942}}

  • veronicastrum
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Happy Birthday, Eden!

    {{gwi:165944}}

  • dodgerdudette
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Man you guys are killin me with all these fabu Clematis pics. bugs Fascination and Deannes wonderful Arabella are two that have caught my eye today. How cool to grow a Catalpa from seed !

    Martie, I didnt mention how much I enjoyed your squash pics..Im squash free this year , and in fact no veggies at all. Now, youve got something there with your suggestion of the Beatles Anthology for the trip ! I was going for all musicals, Aspects of Love, Company, Into the Woods, Follies, maybe Les Mis, Carousel, etc. I might have to rethink this.

    Saucy, perhaps we need dark chocolate dipped strawberries, with a crisp Chardonnay at IU5 to ensure that you remain cough-less. Watching the bees fan the hive with night vision---what industrious creatures they are .

    Kudos to Mr Ponytail and his fine workmanship and his willingness to admit and apologize for the slow pace at The Compound.. All will be in readiness for Labor Day !

    Right Cindy, no bourbon needed for IU ..Ill make due with whatever is on the beverage menu..I cant believe its almost here ! Re lacecaps, though I love them , the flowers do become really crappy looking when they fade, and I spend lots of time deadheading .

    I want to go to Penan Scotland and stay in one of those houses. How isolated that place looks ! Wouldnt it be awful if you panned around and there was a WalMart or the like at the end of that row of buildings ???

    LOL Anita, your shoe marketing plan ! Hi 70s sounds like heaven to me right now. Its still sweltering here.

    OK, all for me tonight ..check yall tomorrow-time for baseball.

    Kathy in Napa

    P.S. Norma ? Ei? Mary ? T ?

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    {{gwi:165947}}

  • michelle_zone4
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    {{gwi:165952}}

  • anitamo
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY EDEN...HOPE IT WAS WONDERFUL!!!

    {{gwi:165953}}

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    So on Tuesday, Grandson Skyler(9) was prepared for surgery by his doctors and then yesterday, after some delays, had his cardiac catheterization. This is a "simple" procedure, but everyone was on edge because of past medical failures which cause him permanent problems with his heart valves. DD kept us informed by phone and all along, the little guy's Mom was creating issues, among them that she wanted to spend the night in his room at their house where he was to recover. Le GRAND sigh....

    So when I woke up this morning, I received this email: "This is skyler i am finally home it was ok but when i was done i had a tummy ache and i was crying hard. So have you ever had a surgery with a tummy ache?"

    Of course it was so sweet that his Daddy stayed up with him and thought of something to do with a sad little guy at 2:30 in the morning! (Especially since he was the one Skyler barfed on after the surgery!) Of course I answered right away!

    And so begins the day! It is sunny, beautiful and cool...so far. The birds are chirping! Looks like I'll have to garden! :)

  • deanneart
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning all,

    Today is supposed to get up to 90 yet again and even with the rain from the last couple storms Im going to have to water some of the lawn areas today. Yesterday was 92 degrees with a ferocious wind. Id swear they were gale force winds blowing through here and of course the lovely white astilbes just crisped up and turned brown in a day. Oh well theyve been lovely for a week or more and I guess that as much as I can expect from them. That combination with the white Asiatic lilies, astilbes with the variegated Nora Leigh Phlox behind is one of my favorites and Im always sad when the astilbe passes.
    {{gwi:165955}}

    {{gwi:165958}}

    Bug happy to hear Skyler is home and doing well. ~~ Enjoy your gardening day.

    Michelle, that Ville is divine climbing against that rough tree trunk. I love it! That view with the Babys Breath just takes my breath away. When that clump of lilies gets going its going to be beyond incredible. What a fabu combination.

    Kathy, Arabella is one of my all time favorite plants for the gardens. It begins blooming in June and continues until frost and such a lovely soft blue/violet. I agree with you that Im going to have to look for that Fascination. What a beauty. I thought youd enjoy this pansy vignette. That decorative kale over wintered and I couldnt bear to rip it out. It tries to throw some little yellow flowers from time to time but its such a lovely plant it is staying there for now.
    {{gwi:165959}}

    BTW your photo for Edens BDay is incredible! It looks like it came from a National Geographic. I just love it!

    Brenda, great to hear from you. Stick around! Hows the back?

    Anita, so please send some of that 70 degree weather our way. Love your hydrangea shots. Ive got three Endless Summers and one is glorious but the other two dont bloom as heavily and I cant figure it out. They all get the same treatment.

    Sue, now Im wondering if Dougs vertigo was some kind of bug. It sounds exactly like what he had. Get well soon and be careful.

    PM that Azalea came from a nursery up here called The Mixed Border. You should come up and we can go there????

    Saucy, so the bees are busy and how very NEAT that you watched them fanning the hive at night. Very cool so to speak!

    Cindy, I cant believe they are going to move your office when you are on vacation. Jeesh. Can you believe its next week?

    Bug, yes after looking again I must have Fascination. Interesting that I have a dahlia that I love by that name.

    OK time to water then I have to beat myself to force myself to get to the basement and paint. I still havent finished that project for the beginning of August class and its now getting critical. To work with me.

    Have a great day!
    Deanne

  • chloehoover
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Happy belated birthday, Eden! I hope it was with friends and family and very very special.

    {{gwi:165961}}

    --Cindy

  • Jerri_OKC
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I haven't read yet but I wanted to jump in on the camera recommendation. We just got a Sony A200 and just love it! If only it came with user training. LOL

    Jerri

  • Jerri_OKC
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    "Bottom line - back when we reviewed the Alpha 100, the amateur or entry-level dSLR market was pretty competitive. These days, that's an understatement. Instead of only releasing one camera in this class each year to year and a half, camera makers like Sony are producing two or more. This, coupled with falling prices has made it quite difficult for the amateur or novice users to decide on which model to buy; especially if they are just making the jump into the dSLR world. The Sony Alpha 200/DSLR-A200 is a worthy competitor in the entry-level market, offering awesome image quality, robust performance, great ergonomics and loads of useful exposure options. One feature that stands out is the Super SteadyShot option. While many manufactures (Panasonic, Canon, etc.) are starting to offer stabilized lenses with these dSLR kits, the A200 features an effective anti-shake system that works not matter what type of glass you are using. This means many of the other models in this class with require you to purchase more expensive image stabilized lenses to achieve the same level of low light shooting performance. That said, with an MSRP of US$699 for the DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 zoom kit or US$899 for the dual lens (DT 18-70mm and a 75-300mm f4.5-5.6 lens) kit, I highly recommend the A200 to anyone who is in the market for an affordable and capable consumer level digital SLR."

  • Jerri_OKC
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Oh this is too cool! I'm not a pearl person but these are nice...

    Jerri ->working hard this morning. ;)

  • gardeningmary
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Hello Idylls!!

    A big wave from our little corner of upstate NY, a warm welcome to Leslie and many birthday wishes for Eden. Fabulous that Skyler made it through surgery. I have lots more to read and catch up on, not the least some of the fabulous photos including Mr Baby and the pint sized camper.

    Somehow the summer has turned out to be as busy as the school year - how did that happen? The powder room is on hold at the moment, but the floor tuned out GREAT despite my worries, wainscoting is up on two walls, everyone loves the wall color and the new toilet is installed and working (my first attempt resulted in flood all over new floor - I hate plumbing). Having first hoped to finish by Fathers Day, then in time for Mum's visit, I'm now simply aiming to complete the room before I loose my sanity.

    Everything, that is absolutely everything, has turned out to be more work/complicated than first appeared. However, I've learnt all sorts of new skills including how to rip wood using a table saw without loosing any fingers. I've also become a bit of an expert on wax seals (anyone ripping out an old toilet?) I decided that spending time with Mum was more important than DIY for these two weeks so I'm getting a bit of a break. Best of all, when DH uses the new toilet instead of coming out telling me something isn't levelled quite right I hear how fabulous the room will be when everything is finished. Music to my ears:0)

    Annie is away at camp in the Adirondacks this week and I was thinking back to how anxious I felt the first time she went away on her own. David is busy with a golf camp so Mum and I have been ablt to enjoyed breakfast on the patio, gardening together, a little shopping, chats over coffee and catching up on each others news. We will drive up to the Adirondacks at the weekend to bring Annie and BFF home, then leave Monday for DC to visit Ruth and David's guitar course.

    I'm still mourning the fact I won't be able to join you all at the Idyllunion. David is perfoming Saturday evening in Alexandria so I need to stay to the end to hear him play. I know that doing the Mommy thing is right thing to do, I just want to be wrong for once.

    I'll be back when I can.

    Mary

  • flowerluvr
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Happy Belated Birthday, Eden!
    {{gwi:165963}}
    It's almost time for the contractor to show up, so I have to run, but I didn't want your birthday wish to be any more belated ;) Hope you had a great one!
    Brenda
    PS. Deanne, my back is much better, thanks. Went for a final tune-up at the chiropractor yesterday and he seemed happy. Well, except for complaining about my sneakers ;) Anybody got a source for quality size 11 WIDE shoes, lol?!

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Brenda, my orthotics man also sells shoes. I'm not saying they are stylish, but heh! I can walk in them comfortably! He even sells amazing sandals.

    So nice to hear your update Mary. Glad you are meeting up with the whole fam damily!

    I actually like some of those tree necklaces! Talk about tree hugging....

    Cindy, your birthday card shows lovely lilies, hydrangeas and clematis. This is peak season as far as I'm concerned. There's so much going on I can't photograph it all. This morning I weeded and weeded. Last night I weeded and watered. There's about 2 full weeks worth of weeding to go, but by then I'll need to begin again! Who has time to clean and cook? DH has begun commenting on the slacking off indoors. :(

    Guess I should get back outdoors. Hope you are enjoying your day, with or without orthotics, crutches and boots!
    'bug

  • saucydog
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    GB...here's an update:
    {{gwi:165965}}

    Glad Skylar is doing good....not feeling good in the middle of the night is no fun...my husband hints around about the indoors, too :) To remedy that, you must spend more time outdoors....hide behind something tall!

    Mary, I think we sent our kids to overnight camp around the same time....seems so easy now. Sarah is going with Jake this year, which will lessen the anxiety for me - knowing they have each other to lean on.

    He's old enough to be a "ranger" to the younger campers :)

    Brenda, do your ankles turn in? I wear an Asics size 12 for athletic shoes....if you're interested I can get you the exact model # :) Good shoes make my knees, hips, and back happy.....

    I've been gobbling up plants at the local nursery: all 6pks are .99 - I found the light blue annual salvia (no tags) and a pretty "peppermint" portulaca. Both are good fillers for the bee garden while I wait for the perennials to fill in. I bought lots of other stuff, too....including broken bags of potting soil (the big ones) for 2 bucks each.

    I had to go buy more pots.

    Denise, your pot is filling out nicely, too:
    {{gwi:165966}}

    Thanks for the camera info, y'all! I always lean toward Sony, because then I could interchange the memory cards that I've already invested in....but my luck has been rotten with this last Cybershot. Time for a trip to comparison shop with camera in hand....

    I'll leave you with the water feature which has really been fun! How's yours Cindy? I need one of those little gazing balls for mine....
    {{gwi:165967}}

    TTYL
    Saucy

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

    Just a quikck post for Saucy, the bee queen :-)

    The follow-up artice can be found here:

    http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2008/07/01/bee-free.html

  • chelone
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I have yet to experience "surgery", or any sort of anesthesized PROCEDURE, for that matter. I've watched from the sidelines, but even when it's a parent "under the knife" it's not the same thing. I can't even imagine the worry involved when readying a child for such a thing is involved.

    I have no doubt that Skyler's dad and his estimably practical step-mother prepared him appropriately and were well able to keep their own worries suitably concealed. What a tough burden to shoulder.

    But "coHn fed" babies and the delight of watching a new life experience "firsts" must be wonderful sustenance for the whole family. 'bug, those pictures are just priceless. I am surprised to see the blond character of Reed's hair. Are you sure they aren't rubbing lemons on that kid's head when the camera is safely tucked away?

    And the drooly, "sticky" Aiden... . I confess, I'm jealous. I want one of those "jolly jumpers"! Our modest 8'4" ceilings would preclude them, but if we had the "cathedral" ceilings so in vogue of late, I'd be ALL OVER one of those. I think it would be a real treat to be able to groove to music in the safety of a completely supported "swing". How come the "fun is over" when we "grow up"? :(

    I'm working on the awning primer.

    Fondest birthday wishes to Eden (whose posts I very much miss). And who is someone I think of often, knowing how full her "plate" is right now. I so miss your posts and am saddened that you won't be at IUV, but someday... . ;)

  • flowerluvr
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I'm back!
    Bug, I'm glad to hear Skyler came through his procedure okay, outside of the sick tummy. In reading your posts (I try to keep tabs, even when I can't post) my admiration for your DD and DSIL continues to grow. They seem to take all in stride, and it does my heart good to know there are still parents who let their little ones get sticky with sweet corn. Personally, if I get grandyounguns, it's my plan to roll them liberally in the dirt every chance I get:) The baby drool, Kenzies dirty little legs at grandma's house......Have I ever mentioned that I need grandbabies, lol?!?!

    Saucy, my ankles do turn in a bit, and the toe next door to my big toe is almost exactly as long as my big toe. AND, when I was little, I dropped a jar of peanut butter on my big toe, and clipped the end off. Doc kinda taped it back on I guess and I have all kinds of ingrown toenail issues with that foot. I dread/hate shoe shopping :) BTW, there were 7 of us kids, and that was back in the day when they had giant economy-sized glass jars of peanut butter..I'm glad I was too little to remember doing it, I bet it HURT! Um, have we talked about my feet enough? I think so!

    Contractor has been and gone. DH and I managed to pretend we agreed on everything. He was supposed to be running wheat, but just "happened" along in time to spoil my party. I don't get quite everything I want, but didn't lose anything I can't live without-as long as we get the garage in the spring!

    Woody, that was quite a story about the escaped bees! What a headache to deal with.

    The other day, I was out weeding, had my MP3 player set to randomly play songs. This one came on, made me think of Saucy and smile :) I'll close with......

    The House at Pooh Corner

    Christopher Robin and I walked along
    under branches lit up by the moon.
    Posing our questions to Owl and Eeyore
    as our days disappeared all too soon.
    But I've wandered much further today than I should
    and I can't seem to find my way back to the wood.

    So, help me if you can I've got to get
    back to the house at Pooh corner by one.
    You'd be surprised there's so much to be done,
    count all the bees in the hive,
    chase all the clouds from the sky.
    Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh.

    Winnie the Pooh doesn't know what to do,
    got a honey jar stuck on his nose.
    He came to me asking help and advice
    and from here no one knows where he goes.
    So I sent him to ask of the Owl if he's there,
    how to loosen a jar from the nose of a bear

    So, help me if you can I've got to get
    back to the house at Pooh corner by one
    You'd be surprised there's so much to be done,
    count all the bees in the hive,
    chase all the clouds from the sky .
    Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh,
    back to the days of Christopher Robin,
    back to the ways of Pooh

    Later, all!
    Brenda

  • gardenbug
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Saucy, that's downright gorgeous! I love it! Is it what you anticipated? I never would have guessed what it would ultimately look like.

    Chelone, not to spend too much time on this, but readying a child for surgery is something else! I recall having my broken arm set under anesthetic and wondering why I was being killed. ("put to sleep") No one seemed alarmed about it at all which bothered me even more. With Skyler, he actually can describe dying from memory, something he did several times before the age of talking. So naturally, I think Sarah's practical approach is a help to all. ("He's 9 years old and a happy healthy kid now, not a newborn with problems!")

    I'm done with gardening for the day. Dirty and tired. Bath time!
    'bug

  • veronicastrum
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    We just had the most amazing storm roll through here. The radar showed something that looked like an angry red fist headed towards us. I went out on the deck to pull in my red banana (too pretty to get badly wind-whipped) and stood there gaping at the clouds. I don't think I've ever seen such an exact replica of the radar image in the sky. This dark wedge of clouds came flying towards us, and I found myself backing up ever so slightly. Then the dark edge was overhead, the winds started to swirl, and then the rain arrived. It was blowing so hard I couldn't see to the road from the house. We got just over 1/3" inch of rain in about 10 or 15 minutes. And the banana is fine!

    Saucy, as I was watching my shaking dog, I remembered your advice about the dryer sheet. I'm not sure if it helped her or not, but at least she smells better!

    Bug, glad to hear Skyler made it through just fine. He's been through so much in his short life, and he still has such a winning smile. One of my earliest memories is being hospitalized for an appendix attack when I was about 2. There was a communications mix up, and my parents thought they were not allowed to visit me. I couldn't understand why I had been left in this awful place all alone, when the other kids had their parents coming to visit. My mom was amazed to find out that I remembered being hospitalized; I'm not sure she appreciated how traumatized I had been.

    Yesterday was a flat-out awful day at work. I deleted my post yesterday about it, and will spare the details now. Today was a little better, but I'm still counting myself in the "Discouraged" column. A weekend getaway can't come soon enough right now.

    After years of dithering, I finally have decided to be serious about losing a few pounds. THERE! I said it in public, now I must stick with it.

    Although the worst of the storm has passed, there's still some ferocious lightning out there. I think I shall post and log off for the night.

    V.

  • anitamo
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    A bad storm a brewing here in Chicagoland, so need to get off the computer. Just wanted to say I'm so glad all is well with Skylar. I have to go back and read up on the particulars, but the important part is that he is well.

    saucy...beautiful!!! planters you have there.

    mary...is your mom visiting from England? Correct me if I'm wrong, but that's where you are from, right? Congrats on the progress you've made so far on the bathroom. I'm still filled with awe that you attempted it. Bravo!

    I haven't read all the previous posts, but I did catch a new Idyller...welcome Leslie. You'll love it here.

    Be back later,
    Anita

  • Marian_2
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Some of my containers are increasing in beauty so I am posting a few pics of some of them :

    First is a view of the pots lined up along the entrance to our yard:

    {{gwi:165968}}

    Second is the deck containers:

    {{gwi:165969}}

    Third is a close up of the Peruvian Daffodil that I had given up on reblooming:

    {{gwi:165970}}

    And last is one of my favorites, in the roadside group:

    {{gwi:165972}}

    I really love those Angelonias. :-)

  • dodgerdudette
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Our heat wave abruptly fizzled out contrary to weather forecasts-no complaints here ! I have open house on Sunday, so I will spend half a day cleaning house and half a day deadheading fried flowers. I started my IU list, and will strategically get up ½ hour early each day, progressively starting Monday, to prepare for the time zone changes and the ungodly early flight time.

    Deanne, I wish I could take credit for that photo, but it was the handiwork of DS..he and I did the tide pools on Saturday morning and he took some great shots. Coincidentally, my Pacific Horticulture magazine came today and there was an article on herbaceous Clems, and Arabella was mentioned as a great choice for west coast gardens. Its meant to be !

    Saucy, your containers have really filled out beautifully ! I bet they all look great when viewd together in person deck-side I put a Stipa in one of my pots this year too-I love they way they add movement to the arrangement.

    Marian, you have a nice collection going there too- you always have things of interest- That Peruvian Daffodil is wonderful ! Is it fragrant at all ?

    Mary ! So glad you checked in, and all goes well for you..

    bug , good wishes to Skylar and the family

    OK, time to veg out for a bit..hi to everyone

    Kathy in Napa

  • veronicastrum
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    The unusual storm that came through last night is called a derecho, and is characterized by a distinct "shelf cloud" at the front, which is what I watched as it moved through last night. It was interesting to read this morning that it started in Minneapolis around lunchtime yesterday; because I was on the phone with someone in Minneapolis right as the storm started there. The storm held together for over 600 miles and caused damage across three states.

    We had two more storms (garden-variety thunderstorms) come through last night with another inch of rain so far, and two more in the queue. It will be a soggy drive to the office.

    V.

  • deanneart
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning all,

    What a beautiful day it is today! This AM is 65 degrees out and the air is dry. Perfect for gardening but Ive got to paint in the basement. Can you see me pouting? Le sigh!

    Saucy, I love, love, love your containers! That water garden is beautiful. Love it!

    Brenda, glad to hear your back is better.

    Woody, I cant get over that link to the escaped bees. Good grief!

    Chelone, Hmmmm. Your turn for an anesthetized procedure is coming.. ~~ I miss Eden too!

    V. Id love to see a pic of your red banana and your collection of containers??? ~~ Bummer about the continuing job frustrations. ~~ Wish youd gotten a pic of that storm cloud. What an amazing thing.

    OK speaking of weight loss Ive got to get to the gym. Have a great day all
    Deanne

  • saucydog
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Wow V! Cool phenomenon, though I'm sure frightening in the moment!

    I'm guessing dryer sheets don't really work in this situation :) I think I saw that on Martha one day while I was in a sick stupor on the couch...some of her ideas work :)

    PM, have you tried melatonin for the sleep problem? I tried it and it worked....of course it could've just been a placebo effect, but who cares if it works?!? It's in the vitamin aisle if you're curious.

    Michelle, I don't think I told you how wonderful I think the butterfly gate is...and the colors are perfect! Sarah said she needed a clubhouse the other day....I can't show her Kenzie's place :)

    Sarah has a new girlfriend in the neighborhood and they sit on a blanket under the shade of the trees and talk for hours, listening to her new "favorite" radio station. Fun to see her grow up.

    Jake is just a happy guy. Next week his carpentry class begins, and her jewelry class. Yeah!

    Woody! I saw that bit on the news with video coverage! You know, I think that the stress of being trucked around must be part of the problem concerning colony colapse. I feel flattered that you all think of my bees so often :) They're fun to watch, I tell you, better than Martha.....

    Well, time to sign off as today is perfect gardening weather and all those .99 six packs need to get tucked in so I can go buy more, LOL! I made a promise at the beginning of the season not to let anything lanquish about and to get it in the ground pronto....so far, so good. And this place looks better than it has EVER looked - and that's a GOOD THING.

    Martha theme came out of nowhere....

    Saucy

  • chloehoover
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Great to hear Mary check in -- sounds like you're doing lots of family stuff that will make wonderful memories, Mary -- we'll miss you, but sometimes we need to be cloned dont we to be everywhere? You are to be congratulated on being so stalwart in the face of those reno challenges yep, thats what I said about everything but everything ending up a big deal when you start a repair project never, never fails.

    V I do commiserate with you on the ofc woes its downright depressing when you have an awful day or week or month, isnt it? Thats when vacations are definitely needed. Good for you re the projected weight loss I have failed miserably this year in that area and have to renew some commitment to it maybe after IU.

    I hope you, Sue, are feeling better and less dizzy and Deannes DH is also on the mend I consider myself an expert in "dizzy" laugh all you want. Ive been thru all the tests for Menieres (the chinese water torture test is what I call that one), meds, etc., and suffered w/ the affliction of vertigo on and off over 20 years it took them over 10 to figure it was connected to my allergies.

    Michelle and Saucy such gorgeous photos and plants. Saucy, yes, my water garden of 2 plants, LOL, has really taken off and almost filled the pot already; guess Ill be doing some pruning and cutting back soon.

    Its forecast to be hot and dry here the next few days; we havent had any t-storms pop up in my local area all week they went "around" my yard go figure. So its kind of hot and dry gee, just as Sue predicted; from wet to dry . I have to do some serious watering and prepping in the gardens this weekend, in between the monthly investment club meeting and Chloes grooming appt and getting ready for IU I have a feeling the boss is going to ask me to work late nites next week, so I have to get as much done this weekend as possible.

    Kathy wow, I confess I thought that starfish shot was professionally taken and youd found it somewhere truly incredible w/ the colors, the content, etc. Id love to see something like that in person just once in my life.

    Well, gotta get thru this Friday hope all enjoy theirs.

    Cindy

  • flowerluvr
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    I was crossing my fingers for the Illinois Idyllers last night. I couldn't put my finger on the map where you guys are, but it looked like the Chicago area was getting hammered! DH was running wheat, and I was keeping an eye on the radar for him. It was my job to guess when the rain would be here, and get to the field with the head carrier so we could take the grain platform off and get the combine home and in the shed before the rain. Looked pretty nasty over there, with more coming behind it. The storm fell apart before it got to us, we just got a sprinkling. It looks like we'll be able to get the wheat finished today, and DH can plant soybeans in the wheat stubble tomorrow. He's just chopping the straw back on the field. I do not miss the days of baling straw for bedding for sows...I'm getting too old/stiff/cranky to be up in the hay mow throwing bales of straw around!
    DD is coming tomorrow to pick black raspberries. She wants to make jelly. She remembers me making it when she was a kid, and she always loved it. She says she wants to make a LOT. Lol, I don't think she realizes how many hours of picking you have to put in to get enough juice to make jelly. It will be a lesson in patience....and a testament to what a good and loving Mom she has. (We don't have to tell her that it's just because I'm a black raspberry junkie) It's been a great year for them here, we kept getting little rains, and they've just kept producing. DH has probably picked enough here and there to make 8 pies. Bless his heart, his favorite is blueberry, so it was really sweet of him to wade through all the brambles to get them.

    Marian, your containers are just beautiful! I'm just not attentive enough to do the containers. Mine end up looking sad and pathetic by the end of the season.

    I thought the starfish photo was a professional shot, too! Awesome picture!

    Gotta run, I just got a text that DS is on his way over, and I'm not dressed yet.
    See ya all later!
    Brenda

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

    TGIF!

    Happy belated birthday to Eden!

    We're in day two of absolutely gorgeous weather here-mid 80s and dry, dry, dry. Last night I opened every window and door in the house. Let the fresh air in. Great for sleeping too. Humidity supposedly returns tomorrow so I'd better enjoy while it lasts.

    Marian and Saucy your decks and containers look very lush.

    Mary, enjoy the time with your mom. When were we going to pencil ourselves into her home for an IU? lol

    This week I've been researching rental share houses for the upcoming ski season. For those not familiar with the concept, you pay one set price for use of a house for the whole season. Finding one that is well run and has good group dynamics is a challenge. An additional challenge for me will be finding a group where I won't be the token member over 40...lol. Although it will be a bit of a stretch out of my comfort zone, I know nobody who skies anymore and would like to get back into it. Meeting some new people wouldn't be the worst thing either.

    OK, time to trot.

    Enjoy the day!

    Sue

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

    Hi everyone, Just a quick drop in to say a big thank you for all of the beautiful birthday cards! I love them all! It's been a busy summer so far and is going way to fast. Bella is at such a fun age and we've been spending a lot of time doing fun things with her. Lots of visits to the dairy to see her beloved cows, we went to Build a Bear last weekend and made a 4th of July bear, visits to the park and Dairy Queen and today we're going to the zoo. My garden is cluttered with sandbox, water table, wading pool, tricyles, all mixed in with lots of flower pots. I've gone overboard again with the containers. No big surprise there, right? This has been a great summer for the garden, lots of rain and not too hot, just right. Yesterday Jenni and I worked at ivy removal again in her garden. I know I promised you all pictures but I had trouble with my picturetrail account when I tried to add them. Maybe it's time to try again. I want you all to see what we've done!

    V, I have musa siam ruby. Is that the same as your red banana? When I first got it the leaves were more green than red. But now that it's warmed up they are really red. Very cool plant!

    Saucy, love your container gardens and reading about the bees too!

    Deanne, as usual everything I've seen in your pictures is just spectacular! I especially loved the pot you painted to match the begonias. Thanks for the pictures of Sue's garden too!

    Sue, I didn't notice the boot but do really like the way you're wearing your hair these days. Your garden is wonderful as always! One of my favorites!

    Cynthia, thanks for the glimpse into your garden too. Your agaves are beautiful. I'm acquiring quite a collection of them too, thanks to the influence of you and Denise.

    Michelle, I love hearing about your special times with Kenzie. The Secret Garden is really coming along and looking so cute. That gate is such a great find!

    Marie, I'm so glad Skyler came through ok. So much for him to deal with. So great of him and Sarah to do the cancer run. She looks beautiful in her new haircut :) Reed is growing up so fast and is such a cutie.

    Kathy, Aiden looks like such a happy baby and is cute as can be. I made your birthday card my computer background picture. Very, very cool!

    I have to run. Time for the zoo! Hi Martie, PM, Cindy, Denise, Anita, Chelone, Mary (Who else have I missed?). Brenda great to have you back posting too! Welcome Leslie!

    Happy Friday!

    Eden

  • prairiemoon2 z6b MA
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    Good morning :-)

    I started a post early this morning and that was as far as I got. I just noticed we are up to 97 posts and I hadn't posted one Hydrangea pic yet. Mine are hardly raving beauties this year and all the most common ones....but...

    {{gwi:165974}}

    Here is one from last year, that I liked better....

    Happy Birthday Eden..! Hope it was enjoyable. :-)

    {{gwi:165976}}

    No time for reading this morning...and Doc appt later today, so I will catch up on the next Thread...

    Waving to all! :-)
    pm2

  • anitamo
    15 years ago
    last modified: 9 years ago

    v...interesting that the storm yesterday has a name, since it seemed like an ordinary summer thunderstorm in my area. We got the rains and thunder, but not the winds. All is calm, sunny and shimmery wet this morning. We must be pretty near each other, because we were both posting about the storm last night at the same time.

    sue...forgot to mention that your gardens are beautiful. Thanks to deanne for taking all those shots.

    marian...I love your deck garden. It's all so lush.

    brenda...reading about your farming chores reminds me of my grandmother's farm. My uncles did all that while I was growing up, but by the time I was in high school or slightly thereafter, they stopped working the fields. They still have the chickens and a veggie garden, but at 83 and 85, it's all they can do. My DGP bought the farm in the 40's, so it's great it's still in the family. I remembered climbing up into the barn loft filled with hay and jumping down. I shudder to think all the mice and owls I shared space with. LOL.

    eden...have fun at the zoo. We always get the yearly pass to our zoo so we can take the DGC as often as we like.

    I must have missed michelle's post with the gate...have to look for it. Sounds beautiful.

    PM2...hope the doctor's appt. brings good news.

    Gotta get ready for work. Have a sunny day everyone.
    Anita

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