Good Morning, It's a beautiful morning. The thunderstorms we had last night blew all of the humidity out of here, watered the garden and left us with a beautiful blue sky. I need to get out there and get some planting done this morning before it gets too hot again. So many pretty pictures here to look at this morning. I love Idyll birthdays!

Deanne, here's a couple of pictures you requested. first the musa truly tiny

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and the green and white iresine on the left in this container (it has pink stems)

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Ok time to get out in the garden..

Eden

Wow, I missed another birthday? Sheesh - I can't hope to compete w/ all these lovelies that have been posted for you, Eden, but the sentiment is the same:

I hope you had a grand, grand birthday!! [one thing we know you do NOT need, is containers....]

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--Cindy

Yarrgghh! I'm behind three birthdays! I will try to make amends tonight.

I'm just a little busy tying down final details, so hubby has decided to pitch in and help. He wants to buy a car tonight. (Do you hear that long, loud scream of frustration?)

OK, I think I'll sign off before I spill too much and then one of the visiting idylls tells all to my DH!

T, if you should find yourself drawn to the computer making airline reservations, call me and we will fit you in!

V.

Remember the joy last April when gardenbug got her new riding mower? Well today it went to visit Marian's "new" stove that got returned. Just too many little things that did not please me, so we are trying a different model now. We shall see how it goes over the next few weeks.

I really need to start packing for my trip west. Heaven knows what I'm taking, Babs never sent me the list. ;-)

Happy today to all you quiet busy folk!
'bug

Just a quick note. V, don't worry about my birthday. You have enough on your mind. You can give your birthday wishes in person on Thurs. :o)

Michelle

Hello all,

Well the temps are hotter today than anything weve had in several years. It is currently flirting with 100F. The thermometer registered 99.8 a little while ago and well see if we actually break the 100 degree mark. The plants arent dealing well with these very hot temps and the fuchsias are especially having a tough time. One of my Shadow Dancer Marcia plants is toast and I dont know if there will be any reviving it. Ive been paying a bit more attention to moving things today and I think Ill have saved a couple other plants that werent looking too good.

The kitties are giving me quite a difficult time today because Ive kept them in the house. This weather isnt good for man or beast. Rahjii has been yowling away at me for hours now but I refuse to relent. Sometimes I wish a person could reason with them. LOL

I didnt get out to bicycle today either as it just is too darned hot so I went to the gym and did my ab workout and an hour on the stairs. This weather is supposed to break tonight so hopefully Ill be able to get a ride in tomorrow.

Doug is pretty much back to normal but his face was still swollen this morning. I keep encouraging him to sleep propped up in the bed so he doesnt get swollen while hes sleeping but hed not into doing that.

V. A new car today??? Hmmm. ~~ Well, Doug was OK with my going out your way on Sunday but as it turns out when I checked for airfares the cheapest ticket I could find was over $400.00! Sorry but that really is just way too much to go for a one day visit as much as Id like to do it. Bummer!

Bug, sorry about the mower. Must be quite a pain in the neck to have to return it then learn another new machine.

Cindy, beautiful photo! Is that Betty Corning? Ill bet Eden would like as many containers as she can get. LOL

Eden, thanks for posting those photos. I absolutely LOVE that iresine with the pink stems and white and green leaves. What a beauty and that banana is too cute for words. How tall is that? What is that neato abutilon youve got planted with it?

Michelle, I love that globe with the nigella. Is that one of those that glows in the dark? Ive seen them advertised in a couple garden catalogs and they look like they are quite pretty at night.

Hi again Taryn, sounds like your party was a huge success.

Wendy, great to have you back. Glad you had a nice vacation. You had a good week to be at the beach.

OK Ive got to go and get a couple things accomplished before its time for dinner.

Later all
Deanne

Toasty here today. Tonight I will move all the containers to the potting area so that I can have a trial tonight and tomorrow a.m. with my timer and sprinkler. Tonight and tomorrow there is a chance of rain. Im keeping my fingers crossed.

Eden, I just love seeing your containers. You have the coolest plants. I have to really scout to find anything unusual here.

Deanne, nope the ball doesnt light, but I rather like it with the nigella. Such a nice blue flower. Around my garden shed I like to think of it as a "cottage garden" I have different reseeders there that take their turns. Starting with poppies, then nigella, larkspur, verbena and brown eyed susans. I add other annuals in to fill in. What a bummer that you cant find any cheaper airfare. Keep watching though, you never know. Ill miss meeting you :o(

Stay cool
Michelle

Eeeeshh, quarter to nine and it's still 85 F. I don't know what the official high was but when I went out to do an errand at lunchtime the thermometer in the car said 100 F. By the weekend it's supposed to be dry and in the low 80s, 70 and rain for Sunday. What day will we be getting that in Chicago?

Despite the heat I managed to slog through my workout then ran out and watered all the pots. Japanese beetles are decimating one of my cannas. It's weird because they aren't touching much else. I squished a few but most of them flew off. Does knocking them into soapy water work better? Why are weeds the only things that thrive in this nasty heat?

Michelle, you just reminded me-I need to leave a list for Tom so he doesn't miss any of the containers while I'm gone. Tomorrow night I think I'll have him follow me around while I water. At least it will be cooler while I'm gone so if he doesn't water each pot long enough(the usual problem) it won't be fatal.

LOL, V, we bought alot of things in preparation for IU2 but a car did not make the list. Luckily I was able to get that van from work.

Oh crap, Deanne, that stinks about the airfare. I guess the days of cheap flights are coming to an end. My ticket was around $325 but I got it for free using VISA reward miles. My plan of having Tom come and take care of Doug wouldn't work because I need Tom here to take care of the dogs and the pots...lol.

Eden, you crack me up-12 more containers. Where do you get all these cool plants-Goldner Walsh? If I hadn't been flying I could have dropped some $$$ there at IU1. When I was at Deanne's on Sunday I wanted to run out and buy more containers but I can barely keep up with the watering on the ones I have now. I do have my eye on one at NAMCO-it's a pool supply place that sells artificial trees at Christmastime. They have 30" and 36" diameter containers that I know go on sale for half price at the end of the season. The containers are plastic but they look like terra cotta or stone depending on the color. You could really go hog wild on the combos in a pot that big and you wouldn't have to worry about leaving it out all year.

Has anybody heard from Jerri? I wonder how she's doing?

OK, I must run. Tom is grilling salmon filets and they're almost done. Add some fresh steamed asparagus and a salad and you've got dinner. In a mere 48 hours I will be dining and sipping wine with all you IU3 early arrivals.

Sue

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GB....undies,bras,socks,shorts,shirts,camera,batteries, battery charger,PJ's,deodorant,shampoo, makeup,sunglasses,sunscreen,bug repellant,prairie shirt/long pants/shoes,binoculars?, comb/brush,toothpaste,toothbrush,meds,*buy a car*...OK so that's the list so far.(I always forget *something* ...sorry it took so long; )

I'm hoping Jerri is doing OK-I've been thinking of her.

Deanne-I'm a dunce. The red pepper wax *can* be applied anytime-the foliage doesn't have to be wet. The best time is at night so it dries before sun hits the leaves. It kills/repels: aphids,white flies,cutworms,spider mites, cabbage loopers and other soft bodied insects-I do believe it can also kill beneficials so I only will apply where leaves are really getting shredded to bits. You do have to reapply after rain. MY big question is whether it even scoots the earwigs away!
I don't believe this stuff repels bigger pests such as rabbits,etc.-there is probably a stronger version for rodents.

Eden that iresine is pretty-interesting how different the leaf shape is compared to the red iresine that Deanne shared with me. Those stems are stunning.

Tomorrow Chris has his follow up from his eye exam-to see if there have been any changes...funny thing is that his vision hasn't been unusually disturbed ever since that earlier appt.

I think Ryan is going to miss me something fierce when I leave for Chicago. I told him to look for the moon each night I'm gone at 9pm and say 'good night mom' while I do the same for him where I am. That seemed to make him more content...I have to remember to do that at *8pm* Chicago time lol.

Finally the heatwave is OVER!

Sleep-I need it.

~Babs

T, sorry about your berries. That has to be maddening. Yeh! for Jamie being potty trained. I like the way they came up with the name for the beagle puppy. He will apreciate it too when he is old enough to understand. Your cat pic is to cute. Looks like he is piloting the boat.

Michelle , Belated Happy Birthday. I'm always late. I hate it that your pots got broken and you lost your coleus. Has the fushia revived? Poor Jaden, I bet she felt bad about it. It is so hot out for the animals. DH said just today that if the dogs would stay in the basement he would let them in. But we have an open stairwell and I know they wouldn't stay down there.

Jerri , Hope you are recovering and had a Happy Birthday.

Eden I think I missed yours as well. Happy Birthday. I hope the weather cools down at least a little soon. Everything will be toast soon. I have so many plants that need to be moved, but its no use right now. I'm trying to make notes so I won't forget what I want to do later.

Well this is as far as I got with comments to individuals. I pooped out after reading.

Hi to all. Marian I hope you and Nolon are surving the heat. Take care. N

It is still early enough to be cool, but that won't last long.

Babs, thanks SO much for the list! Binocs were just added to the heap! I really didn't want to bring a skirt/dress anyway....I'd like to lose another 30 pounds before Friday...but I guess only amputation could do that, so I'll skip it.

Today DH goes for his post surgery check-up. So he and Chris and Nolon...all the guys are doing the doctor thing! I hope Doug is set for his surgery too and over the nasty bug bite business. Lots of deer flies here too I discovered as I tested the new mower.

Somehow DH snuck in yet another gravel meeting I must attend...yep, on Thursday night. Groan. Oh, I need to arrange for a car to the airport still! Always something- but for a good cause.

Yesterday we got the tickets for our trip to Alberta for DD's wedding. I just may look forward to winter when life gets boring! Sounds good to me now, and cooler!

Later!~
'bug

Good morning!

It looks to be another nice day here today. There is a heavy dew and the temps are in the upper 40's (or at least they were a couple hours ago). Yesterday didn't quite get up to 80° but today and through the weekend the temps are suppose to continue to climb.

Jamie spent the night here last night and is still asleep. After dinner last night we took him to a playground so he could slide and swing. I forgot about tantrums when 2 year olds are told 'playtime is over'. He just doesn't realize that when he screams it causes my teeth to clench and my heels to dig in. He is NOT going to get his way for sure when the ole teeth clench and the heels are dug in.... lol

His mom showed up about 5 this morning and I told her to go climb into our bed so she could get a couple hours sleep before he woke up (she had to take her hubby to the airport in the wee hours this morning -- thus why we had Jamie and she is here so blessed early).

I did look up last minute airfares. 7 hours travel time and $777.....it is a good thing it was just daydreaming and not truly looking to buy a ticket. DD has been having contractions for the past 2 days so I will be staying close to home & the phone. She's spending more time laying down so that the contractions will stop....she just needs to hold off having those babies for a few more weeks.

It sounds like IU3 is going to be a lot of fun!

Another cup of coffee sounds good so I'll finish this up with a "hello to everyone!" I hope you have a nice day....

T.

Hi all! Well, no new car yet. I was planning to go to the grocery store after work for idyllunion supplies (wine, cheese, wine, snacks, wine, oh yeah - get some wine) but DH asked me to come straight home so we could go to the dealer. I did so, then he changed his mind. He's got me totally frustrated on this. And to top it off, I never got to the store so no wine - whine!

Don't panic, folks, I'll do it tonight.

T & Deanne, bummer that the airfare is so much. You'll both be missed. As will the others who won't be there, and I won't start naming names because I will forget someone.

The good news is that the weather forecast is wonderful! Three days of sunshine and the highest temp is 80!

Okay, I'm going to go now, and this may be my last post for a little while. From here on out, things will be hectic!

V.

V, don't worry about the wine and other essentials. Just pull into a store on the way home from the airport and we'll pick up everything you need.

Sue

Happy Birthday Michelle! This is a really pretty coleus
Bi-Polar by Golly.. I just love it.
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Happy Birthday Jerri

Here are my blueberries..very yum

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I hope you both had a wonderful day!!!

Drema

Hi Idylls

Thanks for the packing list Babs! So far I've found a suitcase to bring but nothing has gone in it. I did however discover 4 wet swimsuits in a plastic bag in the back pocket, still wet from our last swim in Hawaii. (I'd spent days looking for them). The amazing thing is they weren't the least bit mouldy or even musty. I ran them through a hot machine and put them out to dry in the sun. It never hurts to have a spare!

I ran to the store this morning for groceries for when I am gone. I have a feeling there will be a lot more ordering out than cooking done over the weekend, so I purchased things with a good sell by date. David will be delighted as I also put in a couple of "Lunchables" to make packing lunch easier for DH. For those without kids these are pre-packaged, highly processed lunch combinations which include something savory, a cookie, an artificial drink and sometimes a piece of candy. They also contain about a weeks worth of sodium and are David's idea of heaven. They looked rather out of place in my cart of mainly organic, unprocessed foods.

Lots more to do today, not to mention getting my toenails in Idyllunion shape. What was the designated nail polish color this year?

Mary

T temps in the 40s! what hows that feel? I cant remember......were hitting "lows" in the 90s today..... and thats a relief! O boy, I remember those 2-yr old tantrums luckily youre more experienced at digging in the heels than he, right? I forgot to mention that I was hooting too over the sea captain kitty photo and bad aim stories....

O, V high temps of 80 yes, yes, yes!!! [what I have to pull out a sweater to bring maybe, maybe?] I probably wont believe it for fear of it not happening. Well, glad to hear no new car not something to rush into we could always rent something for the IU people caravan if we have to...?
I second the idea of letting us help shop tomorrow nite gee, I love seeing "foreign" grocery stores!! (to add to my collection of trivial knowledge) esp. we can help w/ that whine & wine....

Drema what a riot
theres got to be something seriously wrong w/ the "Plant Namers" when they are reduced to "bipolar" for a new coleus..... It sure doesnt LOOK bipolar to me? Luckily, the blueberries look just yummy to me too Yum!! my favorite fruit how many bushes do you have to grow to get em like that?

Deanne & T maybe you can lurk near a priceline or last minute fare website for cheapo fares? Altho I do think the days of really cheap fares are over..... But sounds like you both might be busy w/ patients on your hands all too soon. Sure will miss meeting you though.

Deanne yes, thats Betty Corning in the photo Ive got 2 of them & as bug states, they grow into monsters, but lovely lovely ones... even in this horrible heat, shes still been throwing out a few "bells" here and there...

Well, I have lots of last minute work too taking all day off tomorrow to pack, take the furry one to her "sister", etc. thanks for the list too, Babs Im trying to keep the list lite to squeeze in some plants minus their dirt on the return flite!! who needs clothes... (can I wear the same outfit for 4 days or will everyone refuse to be near me by the 3rd day? gotta have room for plants! You all will "understand" right? LOL I imagine that might not be the way to be invited back to an IU4 however)

--Cindy

Morning all,

Im a little worried about my timer for the pots. It didnt go off this a.m. After I messed with it then it did. Rick is going to pick up another today.
Add my hubby to those visiting the Dr. Monday was the Dr. and Tues. was a root canal. After we get back he goes to the Ear, Nose and Throat specialist. I have "diagnosed" it as sleep apnea.

Mary, I remember Lunchables. My kids thought they were such a treat but rarely got them either.

Drema, that is a gorgeous coleus.

Babs, cool butterfly. What kind is it? Thanks for the list. I didnt even have my camera packed.

T, what a fun picture of your cat. I hope your DD can hold off a few more weeks.

Sue, LOL on more containers. I always have my eye out for more. This is a good time of year for bargains.

Thinking of Jerri.

Hi to all.

Later
Michelle

Hi Idylls!

Deanne that Rahji is so beautiful, he almost doesn't look real! :-) I always get a kick out of the way dogs and cats can just totally loosen up and relax...they are truly Zen. I'm bummed about the price of a plane ticket...I was really hoping to finally get to meet you, but so glad to hear that Doug is okay and wishing him well with his surgery.

I hope Jerri's surgery went smoothly too and that she is doing well.

This heat has really got to me. My Italian ancestors would be so ashamed...LOL! I just can't take high temps...they actually give me headaches and make me feel ill and it looks like we're in for another hot one today and tomorrow. Gee, I'm a cheery person this morning! LOL! Sorry! Well, the good news is that it *is* suppose to be cooler for IU3, in the low 80's...yea!

Sympathies V on the car shopping...LOL! I too have been working through the heat *trying* to get my gardens in shape. Oh well, I guess all the Idylls will know now that I'm not perfect and neither is my garden....What do you mean you already knew that?! LOL! Oh well, I plan to get plenty of help and tips when you are here. :-) Still bummed about Deanne not coming, I really need edger tips bad. Hope you guys have your thinking caps on and are making mental notes of your favorite edgers to recommend! :-)

Lots of gorgeous BD cards here...they are *all* so beautiful. BTW, Babs, I don't know *how* you get those butterflies to stand still...they are always flitting away the moment I try to snap a pic. Really enjoyed the pic of Sue and her pups...so sweet, and T's & Marie's kitties just cracked me up! Drema that "Bi-Polar By Golly" sure *is* beautiful...it looks like a tapestry or a colorfully woven cashmere coat...I *love* it...so textural looking! Cindy, your Betty Corning is beautiful! Even in this awful heat mine is still sending out blooms and has been doing so since late May. She is an enthusiastic grower for sure - lol, but I really love her too. Speaking of which, Babs, I was thinking of digging yours up ahead of time and putting it in a pot? But, dont know what would be the best way to "pot it up" for the journey...any suggestions? Or, should we wait until just before you are ready to head home to dig it up - or - wait and have me mail it? Let me know what you think, okay?

I had a wonderful surprise visit last night that really cheered me. About a week ago there was a young couple stopped in front of my house. They were in their early to mid 30s Im guessing and the young woman was in a wheelchair. I could see that they were looking at the flowers, so I went over to say "Hello". We got to talking and he told me that his companion had been in a terrible car accident a little while back and that she had to move back here from Berkley, California, to live with her parents. She was a gardener and had a huge garden in California. She is in therapy now, but can't walk or speak. I introduced myself and told Ann that I was so glad to meet her, though I really wasnt sure if she understood. Anyway, I asked Thomas if they would like to come see the backyard, but he said he didn't think it was possible to maneuver the wheelchair through my back yard and that he probably should be getting her home now anyway, but hoped I didn't mind them being here, saying that he knew it really cheered Ann. Are you kidding? Is there anything a gardener likes more than sharing their obsession with a fellow gardener? And as a fellow gardener my heart was breaking, imagining how Ann must feel and all she must be going through. I told him to come back *anytime* and to feel free to wander, whether I am home or not. I had a big lump in my throat when I said good bye to the both of them. I was so moved and in such an emotional state about the whole experience that it haunted me all week. I couldnt get them out of my mind.... We take our lives so for granted some times, you know? I was bummed thinking about the fact that being so emotional at the time, I didnt even *think* to ask where they lived.... What if he felt so awkward after sharing such distressing and personal things with me, he was embarrassed to bring Ann back? The thought that I may never seem them again made me so angry at myself for being so stupid and thoughtless. I kept kicking myself and feeling all the more depressed, thinking how I could have brought Ann over here myself (if I knew where she lived) to spend time with me in the garden, but how now that may never happen.

Well, last night they came back! :-) They were in the driveway looking at flowers when I happened to come out to water the pots. OMIGOSH...Ive never been happier to see two people in my whole life! And what a wonderful night! It was so sweet....Ann would point to a flower and he would say "Yes, what is that Ann?...You know what that is!" And she was *smiling*....thats when I knew that she *did* understand on some level, even if she couldnt speak. He explained that she was pointing to the plants that were like the ones she grew in California, but unfortunately, he didnt know the names of them. So there were the three of us...Ann pointing, me telling them which plants they were, and him trying to get Ann to say the word! She pointed to the agaves and the impatiens and the roses...all the time smiling...heck, we were *all* smiling! I laughed when Ann reached out to feel a leaf on my Purple Heart tradescantia. She had a strong grasp and I think Thomas was afraid she would rip the leave. He was holding onto the other side of the leaf with an equally strong hold, trying to keep it steady. I told him not to worry...*everything* was touchable in my garden and fully capable of renewing itself. I asked if he would like to try to get in to see the backyard, but he wasnt sure he could get the wheelchair maneuvered through the gravel. Well he gave it the old college try and we did manage. Ann stopped and watched the fish in my pond and I could see the light in her eyes...I take back what I said about my pond being too small and not in a pretty spot...! I was seeing my pond in Anns eyes and in that moment no pond could have been more magical, not even Monets! :-) I ran to get some fish food so I could get the fish to come up to the surface where Ann could see them better. I told her about how I lost all my fish to herons this spring - except for Alvin. I pointed out Alvin to her and then Ruby (formerly known as Freckles). "When I first got that fish," I told Ann, "I thought he was a boy and named him Freckles because of the tiny little freckles of orange on his all white body, but later he developed lovely painted red lips, so I changed his/her name to Ruby!" :-) I dont know how much Ann understood, but she was smiling and Thomas got a kick out of my story. Thomas told me that in California Ann had a pond too and that the raccoons were always stealing her fish. Then Ann began pointing to the backyard. She wanted to get into the backyard! Thomas laughed, "Ann, I know you want to go see all the other flowers, but I cant get this wheelchair through the grass." She kept pointing most insistently...LOL...and he kept trying to distract her by asking..."Whats this plant Ann?" of plants nearer to our location. She would gaze at the plant and touch it, but then start pointing to the backyard again. I thought she was pointing to the lilies in the middle of the backyard, so I showed her some Casa Blanca lilies I had near the deck. She got this huge smile on her face and I impulsively plucked a flower from the plant, removed the sepals, so not to stain her face and presented the flower to her. I put it in her hand and then held it up to her face so she could get a sniff. It was such a special moment, looking into her eyes and seeing the pleasure on her face...we had made a real connection. We were both smiling from ear to ear and I *knew* then that Ann really did know I was there with her...even if she didnt understand all my ramblings...but, then again, who does? They spent a long time here just enjoying the flowers and Thomas told me a little more about what had happened to Ann. She had been living with Thomas in Berkley and had a horrible car accident. The doctors really didnt have much hope for her survival....but to everyones amazement, she made it. They moved into her parents house out here (about 4 months ago) and Ann has been going through PT ever since. Thomas said she hasnt actually spoken yet, but that sometimes she will try to mouth a word. He said his fondest wish in life is that someday Ann will be able to garden again. Boy, do I wish that too! Hes very hopeful that Ann will make a good enough recovery so that she will be able to have some independence again. He said he knows she really doesnt like living with her parents and resents being so dependent. I cant even imagine how hard it must be to have all your thoughts and not be able to verbalize them, to want something as simple as a drink of water and not be able to do that for yourself. I cant even bring myself to *really think* what must be going on in Anns head; it just breaks my heart and makes me feel so frustrated....I can only imagine how frustrated she must feel. Finally, Thomas said they had to leave, even though Ann kept pointing...LOL! I went back into the house then to give them some "private time" to enjoy themselves, just the two of them. When I finally looked out the front window I could see Thomas gently pulling Ann back up higher into her seat and as they moved away I spotted the Casa Blanca lily still clutched in Anns hand...I was grinning from ear to ear! :-) Now I need to figure out some way to make my gardens more accessible to Ann. I was thinking two wooden boards might do the trick; lay them both down, roll the wheelchair over the first one and onto the other, then take the one from the back and move it to the front? I dont know, but I am going to try to come up with something that would work. If her parents and Thomas dont object, I would love to bring Ann here to spend some time in the garden with me. It would be great to have the company when Im working in the garden and I think it might be good for Ann too. Well, well see, I wont get ahead of myself. I mean, obviously I will need to know a lot more about Anns needs and how to communicate, and her family will need to feel comfortable with me, before she could come here by herself, but I sure hope we can work something out.

Well, have lots more I wanted to say, but got so caught up in talking about my vistors, that Ive run out of time. I need to go get my haircut for IU3. Not sure if there will be hope of doing fingernails and toenails before you all come, but hey, Thanks V, my heels are looking *so* much better anyway!

Wow, this has become a very wordy post...lol...sorry, guess I'm making up for lost time.

Well gotta go...Have a wonderful day all! Ei

Gardening is an exercise in optimism. Sometimes,
it is a triumph of hope over experience.
- Marina Schinz

It is utterly forbidden to be half-hearted about gardening.
You have got to love your garden, whether you like it or not.
- W.C. Sellar and R.J. Yeatman, Garden Rubbish, 1936 -

Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves
of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is a symbolic as well as actual beauty in the migration of the birds, the ebb and flow of the tides, the folded bud ready for the spring.
There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature...the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after the winter. The lasting pleasures of contact with the natural world are available to anyone who will place himself under the influence of earth, sea and sky and their amazing life.
- Rachel Carson (1907-1964) -

When you have only two pennies left in the world,
buy a loaf of bread with one, and a lily with the other.
- Chinese proverb -

"Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they neither toil nor spin..."
- Bible, Matthew, 6:28-29 -

I love that Rachel Carson quote and want to get that calligraphied and framed! And I loved Ei's story which is not in the least bit wordy. Ei, I have used long 2" x 8" boards to make a grassy area wheelchair accessible in the past and it works.

Oh! Oh! an idyll grocery shopping excursion! I love it!

Thud! Did you hear that? An unplanned project landed on my desk. Bye!

V.

Ei - what a beautiful story about Ann - it made me tear up. I think it shows how special you and your gardens are. I think being able to spend more time with you and your plants would be a wonderfully healing experience. I hope you can make it work out. Thank you for sharing such a touching encounter with us. Now THAT is why we garden!

I loved the quotes too.

Mary

Ei, thanks for sharing such a touching story. Your garden sounds like its a special and magical place. I hope you can connect with Ann.

Michelle

Ei -- your story about Ann has brought tears to my eyes -- perhaps because it struck home very personally to me. My mother who has always been one of the most articulate people I've known & who loved to read (truth be told, sometimes had a biting word or 2 to go along w/ that intelligence) had a stroke 3 years ago -- and completely lost all her speech, none of it regained - along w/ the loss of reading & writing... along w/ partial paralysis (thus confined to a wheelchair). It has been & is one of her most frustratingly, painful things to deal with on a daily basis - trying to communicate a word that she used to know - trying to tell a doctor where it hurts or ask a question or carry on a conversation with us....My father has learned to do the "20 Questions" repertoire w/ her & they have a "system" to communicating or figuring out what she is trying to say. The drs early on even said that she really could not understand -- but they were totally wrong on that, as we have discovered(so tell Thomas that) -- she understands almost everything people say & do -- many chuckles & tears she's shed without saying a retainable, intelligible word in the last 3 years. People recovering beyond a "30 day" window & 2 yrs are not seen as worth trying to rehabilitate acccording to insurance companies & medical professionals - it's very frustrating if you're not rich!

It speaks of what a beautiful, special person you are to be able to even glimmer at Ann's struggle & what she misses in her life now -- and to want to find the time to help her regain just a small part of it, is beyond words. You are a sweet, gracious person. The world needs more like you and your garden!!

Just had to spill that. Thanks for sharing a such moment in your gardens with us -- and Ann and Thomas.

Im in countdown mode here ..... 25 hours before the flite to IU3 and catching up with many of you. Yeehaa.

--Cindy

Ei! That is the best story I've heard about a gardener's experiences. Everything's blurry on the key board because of all these tears; ) I was thinking why am I sad? but it's not sad it's admiration for your compassionate actions and feelings toward Ann,and understanding the joy you gave her. Maybe her determination to see the back of the garden will push her to get further in her recovery! I'm so happy she came back and I hope she continues- Mary said it right~*That's* why we garden!

Cindy thanks for sharing about your mom-all this time and you hadn't said. How frustrating to have that happen-my dad lost his speech too but from dementia and there really was a different level of comunication but a definite awareness even without spoken words(despite what medical field says). Sometimes a twinkle from an eye or even a tear says volumes.

Michelle-glad you liked that b-fly I have to look him up I forget which kind he is!

Ei-lol yep those b-flies do flit around...the key is *persistence* and move vewy,vewy slowly; )

Glad my packing list is helping more than 'Bug....so V, should we scratch *buy new Car* and add *wine*? lol. Just minor details; )

For anyone leaving tomorrow for IU3 please have a safe and fun time....save some fun for Drema and I too though; )

Chris' eyes are the same-which is good. That means they are most likely stable. Just check ups once a year for now.

Short on time I need to share 'puter with AJ...

~Babs

Babs, we are actually going to leave tonight. We decided to drive part way and then take our time tomorrow getting there.

See you there
Michelle

The countdown...Getting pretty exciting!!!

Had a visitor this evening who brought Bella the bloodhound along to meet Charlotte:
{{gwi:168522}}

{{gwi:168523}}

Taking on a bloodhound is more than i can deal with. He actually runs between 10-20 kilometers a day with her...even in the heat!

And for the Idylls who have to keep commitments and can't travel, here are a few new things from the garden:

New to me, Phlox Flower Power. I like the hint of pink and hope these plants overwinter well.
{{gwi:168524}}

Clematis Fryderyk Chopin.
{{gwi:168525}}

Off to do more stuff around the old homestead. So hard to prepare to leave....
'bug

No kidding, Marie. Tonight after my workout I arranged all the pots in each area for easy watering and planted the few I had left that were "staged". Then I walked Tom around for a dry run. Break for dinner at 8:30. Now I have to go pack. The goal is to not check a bag but something tells me that will be easier said than done. Tomorrow I'm working til 2. My flight leaves around quarter to five. By 8 central time I'll be more than ready for a drink and dinner with the early arrivals.

Is there a pool at this place? Don't forget your suits.

Sue

Ei, I totally forgot to tell you how much I enjoyed your story about Ann. What a caring and compassionate person you are-I'm looking forward to meeting you and touring your lovely garden.

Sue

Ei, loved your story also. What a generous person you are!

Sue, you might as well check a bag b/c I'm checking one and we're on the same flight LOL I'm bringing a cooler as a carryon and hope to fill it with plants for the return home.

Michelle and Jerri-happy belated bdays. I'm sorry I didn't have time to post photos. Too much to do before vacation, esp with everyone being sick.

Emma is much better. Hubby and I are still coughing-but no fever and more energy so we're on the mend.

Monique

Hi all,
I should be getting some shut-eye by now, but have just washed my laundry for the third time after pre-treating some stubborn stains. Yes, DH has left a chapstick in the pocket of his shorts AGAIN and there are grease marks all over everything! ARRRGGGHHH!!! He does this at least once a month but the timing bites on this one. All my fav shorts and tees were in this load (of course, thanks Murphy!) so I may be shopping at the hotel gift shop for clean threads!

But otherwise I'm packed and ready, toenails painted a peachy shade, camera batteries charging. I'm so excited to see everyone again, and meet Cindy and Michelle for the first time! Wish Deanne and Teresa were able to come, but hope when we get back after the weekend we'll hear that Doug sailed through his surgery and T's daughter has either two bundles of joy or has held off on delivering for a little while. Hope Eden and her DH can make it, but understand she is very worried about her Mum too. Best wishes and good vibes to all who need them. Thinking about Jerri too...

Ei, just read your story about Ann, how wonderful! You are so caring and compassionate, and I know you'll find a way to help your garden help Ann. That is so neat! Can't wait to meet you and see your gardens in person!

Cindy, your sharing about your Mum's situation was very emotional too. Sorry your family and your Dad have had to go through so much frustration, but it's great that you know your Mum is in there, and understands.

V, very timely that your DH is arriving at O'Hare just after my flight and can drive me out. That's great! Honey wants me to join her at the hotel's pool or hot tub, so I reluctantly tossed my bathing suit in the bag. After a libation or two maybe I won't care how I look. ;) Yes, please don't worry about wine! We'll take care of that staple when we get there...

Babs, thanks for the list! I'll add small notebook and pen to make garden notes/sketches along the way. Have found this a very simple but handy tool on past Idyll-Unions.

LOVED all the photos here, but it's midnight and my dryer just stopped. So going to check out the chapstick stain situ and get some zzzz's.

See some of you tomorrow!

Taryn :)

Daylight is almost completely gone. There is just a bit of light behind the hillside that I can see from my window. DH has gone off to bed but I'm not sleepy yet. I'll be sorry at 4:45, when the alarm goes off, that I've not gone to bed already.....but for now it is nice to watch the day end in the quiet.

Ei, what a lovely person you are...I already knew that, but I guess I didn't realize how truly lovely and kind. Ann has found a treasure in you and your gardens.

Monique, glad you and Les are feeling better. I hope Emma is doing well, too.

'bug hope this new tractor works well. I enjoyed seeing the doggie visitor you had....and always enjoy & appreciate your garden photos.

Babs, glad that Chris' eyesight had not changed for the worse and it sounds great that you have a plan with Ryan for while you are away for the next few days.

Taryn, rotten about the chapstick! I've never been one to check pockets when doing the laundry. I count on the garment owner to have gone through and removed everything..I've been very lucky over the years that DH & the kids were diligent about emptying their pockets before dropping their clothes in the laundry basket. Hopefully once your DH sees how difficult this has made things for you, he'll get better about checking. It looks (and sounds) like the 'get to know the neighbors' party went well. It was a very nice thing for you to have done for the new home owners.

Marion's been quiet, hope that new computer hasn't had a glitch. I don't think she mentioned which camera she decided on and I'm eager to see her photos with it.

(Still a tad bit of light behind the hill)

Sue, you always seem to get so much done and packed into your days. I hope you'll have a stress free travel time tomorrow and that the work day will breeze by easily.

Deanne, hope all goes well for Doug and also that he has healed up from the sting/bite.

V., hope you didn't have to go vehicle shopping tonight and that the family rallied around to assist you with all the last minute things you wanted to accomplish. Life sounds pretty full and stressful right now, for both you and Eileen,...but once these 'guys' get there, help you pick out some wine and the good (fun!) conversation begins......well, it will just become stress-less and enjoyable.

Michelle....you and Rick have already headed out, I hope your travel time will be easy and enjoyable.

Honey's been quiet....hope all is well there.

Eden, you are on my mind daily....

Mary....safe trip! :o)

(still a hint of light behind the hill).

A few of the elk came through the upper backyard this afternoon. There were 7......6 cows and 1 calf. A couple of the cows looked pretty 'full' so I wondered if they were going to have their calves soon....or maybe just pleasingly plump. ;o) I tried to take some photos, but not sure how well they turned out. I've not taken them off the camera yet.

Well, guess I'll shut down the computer and head off to bed.

'nite all.....
T.

Monique, I was able to get everything in the carry on so no baggage check for me. The last two times I set foot in O'Hare I had problems. One time Nick was my carry on and we ended up spending the night at some fleabag Holiday Inn way out from the airport because none of the closer places allowed dogs. Granted the previous issues were all with connecting flights but I'd rather have everything I need close at hand. It will also make for a quicker return trip. The only potential problem I see now is if tropical storm Beryl comes a little further inland. The upside to a storm though is it should provide enough supplemental rain if Tom falls down on the pot watering duties.

So...is everybody ready?

Sue

Today's musical weather pairing is "Thunder Road" by bruce Springsteen, accompanied by random lightening in all directions as I drive to work. The storms started about 4:00 am and have been whoppers. No need to water today!

The good news is that the storms will move out by late morning. The bad news is that they move east, so I hope that no one else's plans get complicated.

Okay, more email to send and a tad of work to do - yeah, I'm working today because it seems like tomorrow's payroll is a bigger priority than idyllunion. Go figure!

V.

Good Morning Idylls!

Well Im off to do grocery shopping today with mom. Were usually Friday shoppers, but I need to go with sis to the doctors tomorrow, so its off to the grocery store today.

Gee, I was a little embarrassed by all your nice words, but then again, I know that all of you are just as compassionate and kind (thats one of the things that drew me to the Idylls in the first place) and know that any one of you would do the same if the opportunity arose.

Cindy, Im so sorry to hear about your mom. It must be very hard for her and frustrating for all of you too. My good thoughts go out to your mom and dad, and you and your whole family; I can only imagine the strength and the love it takes to deal with such a tough situation on a day to day basis. I will definitely tell Thomas what you said; I know that will give him hope and strength too.

Anyway, Ive been taking tips from all you packers. Ill be there Saturday with my camera and my little notebook and pen in hand. Hey Taryn, you know if you need to keep yourself occupied while on the flight, that notebook should come in handy. You could be writing down all your favorite edging/low growing plants for full sun and part sun why, that will come in handy for your new house! ;-) Sneaky, aint I? LOL!

I cant believe that some of you will be arriving today! My gosh, Im getting panicky now...how are you holding up V? I just know when you guys come here for breakfast on Sunday, I will have forgot to add something to a recipe, or forget to put something out...even with all my lists.

I have also put "peach" nail polish on my grocery list...though I dont know if it will ever actually make it onto my fingers and toes. :-)

We are having rain again today, which has caused the air to cool. I couldnt wish for a better circumstance. We really have been so lucky this year, with some fairly regular rain. Although some of my pots are heat stressed looking - for the most part everyone seems pretty happy. I need to get out there and do a little weeding and cleanup before Sunday, but Ive left most of the re-seeders that are finished in the ground for now (just in case someone wants some seed to take home with them). Mary, I think some of the Laurens Grape seed should be ripe by now and you need to remind me that we need to collect some for you when you come over Sunday. Im really thrilled because, despite the storms, my *very* tall, over 6 feet, Scheherazade is still smiling and standing up nicely in her place...."shes got legs...she knows how to use them..."

Babs, glad to hear about Chris good prognosis. Poor Ryan...I *bet* he will miss his mom something fierce, AJ too, even though as a "mature young man" :-) he may not let on...

Norma I would love to see your ponds too...*whenever* you can share. Ive seen glimpses of your garden before and it is *so* beautiful...wish you would share more pics!

Ive been thinking about Eden too and hoping that things are going as smoothly as possible for her mom...this is a very tough time, I know. Sending positive thoughts and good wishes. If I dont see you this week-end Eden, I understand, but cant wait until the day we will finally get to meet. You really cant be too far from me. Maybe some time Paul and I can drive out that way (checking on those houses again...LOL) and be able to stop in and see you...and Dotti too...and David! Wouldnt that be great?

Deanne, I will miss you too at IU3! I hope you are serious about stopping in here, if you come out this way for work...I would *love* that. Best wishes to Doug for a smooth surgery and a speedy recovery.

T Ill be missing you too and thinking about those little ones on the way. My best wishes to DD and to all of you....whoo hoo.....*twins*! Im so glad to hear that everything is progressing as it should. Well, hopefully, we will get to meet at the next Idyllunion....will it be Canada then for 2007? :-)

Hi Marian! Are you getting any of these nice rains your way? I sure hope so! Will be missing you too when the Idylls are here. I really hope that someday we will get to meet in person, although I already feel I know you so well. I would love to be able to put my arms around you and give you a big hug! Here are some happy cyberhugs anyway! :-)(((Marian))):-)

Well, gotta get cracking, Im burning daylight and Ive got *tons* to do. Have a safe and pleasant trip in to all on their way to Illnois! Ei

OOps Ei I forgot to say about potting up the clematis...I imagine using a baggie to hold the roots(& wet paper towel to keep moist) and putting the twist tie just above the roots would keep things together?
Never be embarrassed by our words of admiration...you ARE a sweet person!

Bye Michelle...she's already on the road!

TAryn doesn't it figure when you are rushed for time the chapstick ends up in the laundry---ugh!! If it makes you feel any better I ironed pine sap into my khakis: ( BUT I used baby oil to break it up then Dawn dish soap to get it out. Dawn works great for getting rid of oil stains but what a pain to look for all the oil stains after the chapstick gets on the clothes.
I'm packing a notebook & writing utensil. I am afraid of ink pens these days-I had one leak in my purse and just about died when I ended up with cherry red hands from trying to clean it up...that was the Fourth of July...hmm I was wearing a blue shirt and white shorts...I was definitely patriotic that day; )

I just want everybody to know I'll be missing you if you have to stay back from IU3. My wish is that one day every single one of us gets together-I wonder if that could ever happen. Last year I was in your shoes and it was tough. I'll take pics(I knopw that's not good enough).
Laura if you can't come for sure good luck with your mom.
Deanne-be gentle with Doug...but couldn't he co pilot you in his plane(and keep his leg elevated?)? By now you must be able to fly that thing...lol Just kidding ; )
T-I hope your DD holds on till her due date-lots of excitement coming up for you!!Tell him good luck on his surgery.
Marian-please check in!
Everybody else too...hold the fort down while we're away(sniff).

I'll be back once more since I don't leave till an ungodly hour tomorrow a.m.

Have a good day with gentle rain-I hope V's weather comes here minus the lightening.

~Babs

Good morning Idyll-land!

It is already sunny and looking like it will be a 'roaster'. Today is suppose to be in the 90's, tomorrow close to 100° and Saturday over 100. Unusual weather for us in July. The grass in the pasture is dried to a pretty toasted tan....and the lawns are still holding a little bit of green.

Cindy, forgot yesterday to mention how sorry I was for your mother. It has to be horribly difficult for her and those that love her.

I'm going to run into town this morning to pick up a few groceries as Jamie will be spending the night again tomorrow and his momma will spend the day here on Saturday (they don't have A/C so when she comes to pick him up, they'll enjoy visiting for the day in a cooler home).

Hmmmmm, guess that is all the news that is happening here.

Safe journey to all who are traveling today and tomorrow!

T.

Hi! Does anyone want me to take some cuttings from any of my coleus? I have Stained Glass, Coco Loco, the Bi polar one in the pic, Dappled Apple, Alabama Sunset, Sedona, Dip'd in wine...I haven't cut them yet, so they won't have roots, but will be glad to do Babs's papertowel/baggie thing:) If any of you think of anything else I have that you would like, let me know and I can bring it.
I will check in again later today to see, but I probably won't be able to check back in after 8 tonight....

D.

Oh Drema, I'd love to be Bipolar, um, I mean have a cutting of bipolar! I was drooling over your photo.

Ei, I'm not panicking because I just keep dropping things off the list. At this very moment, I'm thinking the garden will look so drowned that no one will notice that I didn't have a chance to deadhead the 8 gazillion shastas that bloomed out over the weekend.

V.

Drema....maybe I could innocently pack some bipolar leaves in my travel bag too?

V, get Taryn or Sue to deadhead those daisies. DELEGATE! Don't touch a thing from now on!

Storms expected here today but then sunny and high seventies until I return.

Still packing. The 'perfume' of countryside fertilizer is everywhere. UGH. Mowed yesterday, so that isn't a problem.

Maybe "Ann & Thomas" will turn up for idyllunion. Wouldn't that be a hoot! We'd weave them a lei....or a halo.

OK, back to business. The toenail colour is supposed to be "Polar Bare".

'bug

V-now listen to me...we are experience gardeners...leave the deadheading to us!(for your garden's sake-preferably before the wine; )

Drema(I like Bipolar too!!)can I have some?

Here comes the rain: )

~B

On my toes-Hippie Chic.

I'd love some coleus but decided I don't want to deal with plants and flights so I'm swearing off all live greenery for the weekend. Somebody please feel free to remind me of that when we're in the various nurseries.

Sue

Don't tell Sue, Monique, Les, Taryn or Cindy, but O'Hare is currently experiencing delays averaging 4 hours 45 minutes. scream!

Hmmm, just like the airlines, when you go to the AA website to check flight status it tells you everything is on time. Better pack some extra food and water for the flight. This is exactly what happened the time I went with Nick to OR. They load you onto the plane like there isn't a problem, then make you sit trapped for hours. Good grief!

Sue

Good afternoon all,

Well I went on a plant shopping expedition yesterday and came home with some nice phlox and one Ajuga Black Scallop. I went looking for some nice dahlias but didnt find anything I liked. My dahlias in the mailbox garden this year are so ho hum and not doing much of anything. Quite the disappointment, in fact all the dahlias just didnt do well this year. I think the spring was just too wet and cold. Oh yes, I forgot, I also bought this tiny monarda Petit Wonder that is supposed to stay a foot to 18" tall. I removed a couple of the dahlias in the front bed next to the steps and planted it there. I hope it does well there.

So has anyone else had a bad year for powdery mildew? My east border is just a mess and even the peonies are getting mildew there. Ive never seen it so bad. Im going to pull out all the phlox from that bed as it has always been a problem and Im sick of dealing with it.

V. Ooooo nooooo. Bummer about those delays. What a mess. I sure hope that clears out and turns out to be not as bad as expected. ~~ Yes, it is truly a huge bummer that I couldnt get a more reasonable airfare so I could zip in for Sunday but I guess it just wasnt meant to be this year. Waaaaahhhhhhh ~~ That is great news about the weather forecast. You all are going to have a ball!

T. wow, you could wind up being a grandma again while the IU3 is happening! ~~ I remember the terrible twos well but with my DD the threes were worse. ~~ I cant believe the best price you could get on a ticket was $777, mine was $450, and that was Southwest. Jeesh! ~~ Bummer about the raspberries.

Babs, thanks for the information about the red pepper wax. I think Im going to give that a try. I do have leaves getting shredded to bits so Ive got to try something of I wont have any coleus left. The Sedona in particular are getting ruined this year.

Sue, not buy any plants? Ive only seen that happen once. ~~ LOL about your plan about having Tom come up to take care of Doug. That also wouldnt have worked because I dont think Tom would have been willing to water my containers here then zip down to Hartford to do yours.

Eileen, thank you for sharing that story. You brought tears to my eyes and again made me stop to count my blessings. Love the quotes as well. ~~ I have no doubt that we will meet in person sometime, just not this weekend.
Eden, whats up with you? Hope all is well there.

Drema, everyone is talking about your coleus pic and Im really bummed because I cant see it! I have Bipolar this year also but it just hasnt done well for me for some reason. Im going to keep checking so I can hopefully see your pics.

OK Ive got to get to the gym. Im way late today but I wanted to get all my new plants in the ground and then of course had to water and deadhead and that takes forever during daylily season.

So, SAFE TRAVELS to everyone. Have a WONDERFUL time. Im going to really miss being with you all.

Have a great day,
Deanne

Hi Deanne:

I sent you an email. I moved the pictures this morning, sort of by accident. Trying to organize my photos...but I sent you the login, password:)

drema

Just back from the grocery store and checking in to see updates....

What a bummer about the delayed flights...I hate when that happens. Well the rains have stopped here since the a.m. so maybe everything will right itself.

Drema...I would love a piece of bipolar too...but really only if it won't make your plant naked...Bipolar seems to be very popular here! :-) I went online the other day after seeing yours and found a place that has it in stock. I won't say where here because I'm afraid it will be bought out before I get the chance to get myself one....LOL! But I'll share the name of the nursery with anybody here who wants it.

Funny you mentioned that Marie...I was thinking wouldn't it be great if they could go to Trudi's with us? But I'm afraid Trudi is no more "wheelchair accessible" than I...probably worse. But hoping some day I will be able to take Ann and Thomas there.

Deanne...we're going to miss you!

Okay, time to unpack my groceries and scratch *that* off my list. TTYL! Ei

My but it is quiet with so many of the Idylls enroute or doing last minute preparations for IU3!

DD saw the doctor this morning and it doesn't sound like I'll be holding babies while everyone is touring gardens. Now why does that make me feel a bit cheated? ;o)

Hope the delays at the airport weren't too long.

I went grocery shopping this morning so will be able to stay home for the next few days. Temperature a short bit ago was 93°...tomorrow and Saturday are suppose to be much warmer. A weekend to hide indoors I guess.

T.

Good morning! I thought I would share that we had a nice dinner last night with Michelle, Rick, Les, Monique, Sue, Taryn & Dottie. My DH and DD joined us as well. The Hartford flight landed early but then they sat on the runway waiting for a gate for about 40 minutes. O'Hare was a mess yesterday. Unfortunately, the last we heard before bed was that Cindy's flight had not come in yet. I had reserved a limo for her, so hopefully she got in late and is at the hotel now.

And speaking of travel plans gone bad, my DS arrived home at 3:30 am after his train arrived 11 1/2 hours late. They went through St. Louis, which my son said was a total mess - trees down everywhere, no power at the train station or at most of the grade crossings, so the train just crawled. He missed the last commuter train out of the city, so I sweet-talked my nephew into picking him up. Oh, to be young enough that you don't even bat an eye when someone asks you to drive to the city at 1:00 am! The guys also dropped off a young woman who was going to a suburban hotel but also planning to take the commuter train there.

Okay, time to run so I can get ready for the day's touring! TTYL,

V.

Good Morning V and Hi to all the "Have Arrived" Idylls!

Thanks for the update...glad everyone seems to have made it in okay. Let us know that Cindy made it in okay; okay? Glad to hear Dotti arrived safely...I was thinking about her!

Woohoo...they're here! :-) I know you guys will love your tour today....a beautiful place!

Well, I need to go get ready for sis, but just checking in to see if there was any word...again, thanks V!

Ei