Thank you, Sheila. We used to be able to post pictures to the ARF right from our Flickr accounts. But, of course, if you delete your photo storage account, any communication that might still exist between the two sites is lost! I still visit the "Antique Rose Forum" from time to time, esp. during the cold winter months when I need a pick me up. I don't post much any more. I do love my gardens and my roses and have had many triumphs as well as disasters over the past five years since I did these postings in 2013. Disaster 1: I now have numerous roses that are 15 feet tall/long. 20 feet tall. And even taller and even longer. And I now realize that, although the idea of giant roses seemed romantic when they were 3 feet tall, they have created a variety of problems in my garden and I am in the process of getting rid of all my monsters except a couple of my most favorite. Disaster 2: I have hundreds of roses. From almost every class. And I have lost track of what I have and what I have lost. Disaster 3: Invasive plants: Japanese anemones. Mexican primrose. Salvia. 4 o'clocks. Sweet violet. Blue globe flower. Black-eyed Susan. And even morning glory. I find poison ivy/oak sprouting in my pots, I invite you to imagine my garden plots. Disaster 4: Thrips. And, though, I love every single one of my roses, even those I am culling, I have found after growing so many, that above all, I love my David Austin roses most. Here are some photos from this year's garden. They may not be great since they were taken with my phone. Best of luck to you in your garden. May it bring you joy and very few disasters.

susie, I'm with you on not hoarding the broken items. My DH likes to "hold on" to things even if we haven't used them in ages or they don't work. I gave him a pot to throw out and don't you know he put it in the garage!! He thinks it's not ready to be thrown out and my argument was "are you going to cook something in it?" Of course the answer was no, so then it went in the garbage. It was a non stick and the surface was getting worn which is not healthy to cook in. Ahh men, they love to collect and hold on to cr@p. The other day I threatened to turn him in to one of the hoarding shows on TV. That got his attention so I think we'll start cleaning out the garage that is full of his trash, in the next couple of months. I'm sorry I went off topic a bit there. I'm sure we could start a whole other thread about men and their collections.

Part 3 His friend asked "'Hey Arnold' why don't we go the short way thru 'Eerie ,Indiana'?" Arnold didn't hear him because all the dogs were barking so he took the exit to the "East of Eden". Having made a wrong turn Gomer learned that the "Harper Valley PTA" was having a big meeting. Turns out the students were upset because they weren't allowed to use their cell phones and Blackberry's in class. Fred MacMurray stood up and said, when "My 3 Sons" were in school they didn't have this technology and they turned out just fine. Well I don't know about you,but I'm ready to call an end to this meeting. Let's just let them have their cell phones, but not let the kids use them in class. Now does anyone want to go to CHEERS and have a drink? With that the whole PTA meeting went out and got in their cars and all drove to CHEERS. Gomer agreed with Fred. His "Sisters" never had fancy instruments in class. It wasn't until "Inspector Gadget" stepped in and showed them how to use them that Gomer understood. Wow...do you mean I can take photos of Margie with my cell phone..Gomer asked? While they were driving to "Cheers" Gomer noticed that Margie was looking at something out the window. Gomer pulled over just in time before he was shot at by the HUNTER who was standing on the knoll. 'Gollly , what are ya doin pointing that in this direction' he stammered. The man said, 'iffen ya had a BULLSEYE painted on ya , I cooda hit ya from way up ther! Now git on outta here!' Gomer got back in the car and told Margie to duck her head down and they got the heck out of Dodge. Gomer couldn't wait to get back to the city where it was safer. He was quite happy to leave everyone behind, and perhaps even go back to "Green Acres". All of a sudden out of the corner of his eye he saw "Rocky and Bullwinkle" They had hightailed it out of Green Acres when they heard the "Beverley Hillbillies" were coming and they didn't want to end up in Granny's kettle as vittles. Rocky and Bullwinkle had come looking for Gomer. There is some thing wrong at GREEN ACRES they cried. Please hurry. We had to call TRAPPER JOHN M.D. Sam fell off of FLICKA and got hurt. Gomer felt his head spin. Sam was his sister, he couldn't wait to get back to the farm. MATT HOUSTON must be sick with worry he thought. As he turned down the lane he saw THE VIGINIAN, whats his name, he couldn't think straight anymore and probably should get right to the ER. But, he had to wait until Knight Rider went by with a load of his Friends. Meantime, Gomer was on his cell calling "Matt Houston" who was at "Green Acres." Matt said Sam was fine, but was asking for Gomer. So Gomer barrelled down the highway, when all of a sudden, he heard sirens, and "CHIPS" flagged him down. Eric Estrada swaggered up to Gomer and asked what his hurry was. Gomer told him, so Eric said, "don't worry, I'll escort you." He led Gomer down the highway with lights and sirens going, and it was all Gomer could do to keep up, in his "My Mother the Car." The MEDICAL CENTER was at 21 JUMP STREET. We're almost there said Gomer. Margie was afraid of all the noise from the sirens. They pulled up in front of the EMERGENCY room and Ponch got out and wished Gomer good luck. As Gomer got out to go in ,Margie jumped out of the car before he could grab her. Gomer ran after her, she was a fast LITTLE RASCAL ! He almost had her when two huge hands scooped her up and Gomer looked way up and into the eyes of THE INCREDIBLE HULK!. Thankfully, he knew that underneath, Hulk was a very kind and gentle person. Even when angry, he was angry for a reason. He gently and carefully scooped Margie up and handed her to Gomer. Gomer scolded her for running away, thanked the Hulk, then entered the EMERGENCY door, and spoke to the head nurse named JULIA. She told them where Sam's room was and off they went. but Gomer took a right instead of left turn and mistakenly joined a therapy session with "Dr. Phil" explaining "The Facts of life". Gomer was so embarrassed that he had to cover Margie's ears and as well as his own. The next topic was "Sex and the City". Gomer and Margie bolted from the room and ran down the corridor to until they saw a sign that said, "This way to Sesame Street". They ran as fast as they could, out the door, and knocking down the "Gilmore Girls", who were trying to find "The Wiggles". Gomer said, I knew we should have gone to "M*A*S*H" instead of here, but Sam is here and I need to know how she is. He wound his way through town, till he got back to the MEDICAL CENTER. He got ion the elevator and went up. JULIA found him and told him that Sam was in ROOM 222. He and Margie went in and saw her. She was on STRONG MEDICINE, JULIA told him. Sam looked at Gomer and Margie and asked "Who are you and why are you looking at me like that ?" "SISTER, SISTER", Gomer cried, its me , "your brother! You know, we're BROTHERS AND SISTERS. "Where am I" she asked. Gomer said you were in an accident, and it's a real DRAGON'S DEN over at GREEN ACRES. You're here at GENERAL HOSPITAL, but we're going to take you home and NURSE you back to health. Once you are back on your feet I am taking you to "Falcon Beach". We can start up a "Family Business" and never go back to the chaos of "Green Acres." As they we chatting Margie started barking at a stranger who entered the room. WellÂ.GolllllyyyyÂif it isnÂt my old friend "Father Murphy"! MurphÂ.what are you doing here? Gomer my friendÂI heard about your troubles at "Green Acres" and I have good news for you. I am sending you, Margie and your sister to my Bed and Breakfast. ItÂs called the "Hot L Baltimore". When you arrive tell my assistant, "HR Pufnstuf" that you are to stay as long as you like. Gomer and Margie were so happy that they Started "Dancing With The Stars" in their eyes! This joyful commotion was overheard in the hallway by "Dr. Kildare", who asked "Nurse" "Julia" to join him in a frisky foxtrot! Meanwhile, Herbie the "Love Bug" just pulled up to take Gomer and Margie to their new destination, when the "Incredible Hulk" motioned for him to Drive to "sex in the city,"have fun and then "serch for tomorrow". So the "Incredible Hulk", Gomer and Margie all squeezed into the "Love Bug". He was taking them to "The Love Boat" where they were goin on an adventure. Gomer was hoping they were going to "Fantasy Island" and Ginger would be there, from "Gilligan's Island". He had his fingers crossed very tightly for this wish. Gomer sat there Â"Lost in Space" for a moment thinking about the boat trip to Fantasy Island. ÂIf Ginger is not there at least I can look for a "Starter Wife." Everyone is given a "Second Chance" in life and I am going to make the most of my time with any new "Girlfriends." But I will take it "Step By Step" and see what happens. Margie was also in her own little world. She was hoping that "Scooby-Doo" would be on the cruise as well. We will look like an "Odd Couple" but at least I will have someone to swim with. Gomer turned to Margie and saidÂMargie..the one nice thing about going on a cruise is that we will use "Silver Spoons" with our "Good Eats" and have "Strawberry Shortcake" for dessert. After we eat we can go out on deck and look at the "Sailor Moon" and tell "Storm Stories." As they headed for the boat they looked up and saw Space Ghost" in the air!! He was Gomer's favourite cartoon when he was young. He was thrilled to be meeting his childhood hero. Margie saw that he had his sidekick Blip the monkey with him. She was barking in excitement at this newfound friend. When they arrived at the harbour, who greeted them in the water, but Flipper!" He was standing on his tail chortling and laughing. This was a terrific way to begin their journey As they walked up the plank to the ship, they were given leis made out of "Blossoms". Gomer held Margie in his arms as they stood at he railing. He whispered to her, I'm so tired of the 'single life', I hope I can meet some 'bachelorette' .Margie wagged her little tail, she loved when he whispered ! As the ship set sail and the first star appeared in the sky, Gomer and Margie made their wishes for "A real Chance at Love" and never wanted to feel like "The Biggest Loser" ever again. Suddenly out of the corner of his eye, Gomer spots the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. Her name was "Reba". Gomer and Margie approached her, but Gomer was so nervous that his words became jumbled and he accidently said Goooollllllyyyyy Shazam!!! Do you know who you are??!?" I'm so excited to meet you!!! This is Margie, and she's excited too. We're going to "Fantasy Island" but really my fantasy is here, seeing you Reba looked at Gomer and smiled. HiÂIÂm Reba. I took this cruise to start my life over. I was "Married with Children" but I recently went to "Divorce Court" because my husband was featured on "Cheaters". IÂm looking for the "Simple Life". I want a "Little House on the Prairie" where my "Pound Puppies" can run and play. What are you and Margie looking for in life? Margie got very excited when she heard there was a place where puppies could run and play. Well at that point Gomer was head over heels in love with Reba and decided to call his cousin Goober who worked at the filling station in "Mayberry R.F.D" to tell him he had found the woman of his dreams. Gomer knew that Goober was also looking for a soul mate and Reba mentioned that her good friend "Rhoda" (yes, she's back lol) was also looking for Mr. Right. Gomer and Reba set up a "Blind Date" for the two that evening. Gomer and Reba settled on deck with drinks in hand. Margie was over by the pool watching the kids play in the water. Gomer said to Reba, I know this might sound strange, but I am 'mad about you' already. Lets's get to know each other better. I'll start, said Reba. I live in a small town called 'Everwood'. I have two grown children,'Hope and Faith' and dogs named 'Clifford' and Lassie' and 'Rin-tin-tin' who I always refer to as my pound puppies, because I rescued all of them from the shelter. At that Gomer excitedly told her how he found Margie and that she was 'absolutely fabulous' and the best thing that had happened to him recently. Well except you of course he said and slowly reached for her hand as "Banacek" the waiter came to them with a tray of sparkling cider from "Apple's Way", and said "Here come the Brides!" Stunned, Gomer watched as Ellie Mae and Dash Riprock approached in wedding regalia befitting "The Fresh Prince of Belair". The whole "Apple Dumpling Gang" was there too, and sure enough, Gomer seized the opportunity to ask "The $64,000 question" and proposed Holy Matrimony to Reba right there and then! Reba and Margie exchanged those knowing looks that only the best of girlfriends have on these delicate issues. Then Reba's face lit up with a smile, and she yelled "YES" to Gomer and hugged him. Margie was "Dancing with Stars" in her eyes, running around in circles around their feet. Reba and Gomer joined hands and ran to tell their "Friends" the news. Only the most "Criminal Minds" wouldn't wish "Happy Days" for them, since everyone only has "One Life to Live". They started making wedding plans, and wanted Margie to be the ring-bearer. Reba wanted to also include "Lassie, Rin-Tin-Tin" as well. Meanwhile, "Rhoda" and Gomer's friend Goober were having 'good eats' . They met at a 'Roswell' diner for their blind date. It was actually like 'threes company' because Goober brought along his friend 'Flip Wilson'. Rhoda couldn't take her eyes off of Flip. Then he told her, "The devil made me wear this dress !" Rhoda nearly fell off her chair. Reba was stunnedÂ.YES..she cried out! They kissed and began dancing around the deck. Gomer and Reba had found their "Love Connection" and Gomer knew he wasnÂt going to end up with "Bridezilla". Margie jumped into their arms and began licking their faces. Goober was just as thrilled. Gomer and RebaÂ.You are going to have the "Days of Your Lives". I made the "Deal of the Century" for you. I booked you on "Airwolf" airlines. You are going to "Point Pleasant" to bask in the "Acapulco Heat". Your "Hotel" is really fancy in case you are "Keeping Up with the Kardashians." Reba hugged Goober and said Goober, you and I have become close "Friends" and I feel the need to tell you this. "Rhoda" often times gets "Growing pains" and finds the need to quickly end relationships. Recently, she has gotten mixed up with "The Bad Girls Club" and as part of her initiation she was given an "Extreme Makeover" and now when I look at her I feel she is somehow "Lost in Space". Good luck with her Goober, maybe you can help her and take "Rhoda" out someplace nice after dinner, and you and "Flip Wilson" can show her a good time to get her mind off her troubles. So they went to "Vegas" where Terry Fator was there doing his ventreloquist show. (I would love to see him!) It was awesome and Rhoda wanted to meet him. Flip has connections so they went backstage and Rhoda was starstruck. He was telling them that he got started on "America's Got Talent" and Goober mentioned that Margie was going to be on the show next season. Terry promised that he'd watch and vote for Margie. Because she was after all "The Greatest American Dog". Flip decided to surprise everyone at dinner and came dressed as Geraldine. Gomer and Reba did not know who it was and thought Geraldine would be a good match for Goober. Goober fell head over heals when he saw Geraldine. He laughed so hard at Reba and Goober. Gomer whispered to Reba" Isn't that that 'Fat Actress?" Reba wasn't sure. Goober finally got up and introduced everyone to each other and said "welcome to 'our gang'." Gomer took Reba off to the side and said "we have to tell Goober about Flip". Reba agreed and they went to talk with Goober. "GooberÂI hate to tell you this but Geraldine and Flip are one in the same." SHAAAZAMMM! Why "ThatÂs Incredible"! IÂm going to see if he will be performing at "Comedy Central". IÂll bet any money that he will be the "Last Comic Standing"! The gang chuckled when all of a sudden the room began to shake. ItÂs an earthquake they cried! Gomer grabbed Reba and Margie to protect them. Everyone ran to the doors to escape when suddenly They stopped and looked around and saw a bright light and knew they had been Touched by an angel . Fear not, for I have a message from the Father she said Behold..and welcome the one who will save you!!! Gomer, Reb, Margie and the others stared in awe...Out of the light came forth a being so big he blocked the sun. After adjusting their eyes they say "Harry and the Henderson's" had some to save them. Becuase of his size and hairy body Margie was scared and started barking at Harry. We're saved shouted Gomer!! After adjusting their eyes they say "Harry and the Henderson's" had 'some' to save them." 'Some' of what or who, no one knew....so, in order to quench Margie's continued barking, they opted for "Trading Spaces", and jumped on the "Love Boat" for "Gilligan's Island". When they got there, Gomer was exhausted. He splayed out on the lawn and said "I feel like I've lived "The Second Hundred Years"! Just before he drifted off to sleep, he managed to admonish Margie "Please Don't Eat the Daisies". Margie thought about that for a second, then proceeded, (with reckless abandon, I might add!) to explain what happened.... Margie sat down and gave Gomer his best pupply-like eyes and said...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to eat the daisies. It's just....I was being "Chased by Dinosours"! Then I met three new "Freinds". "Connie the Cow", "Courage the Cowardly Dog" and "Woody Woodpecker" stopped them from getting me! Gomer picked up Margie and thanked her new friends for helping. Why....you guys are like the "Fantasitc Four"! Now go off and play nice and no more "Funny Business". Margie, Connie, Courage and Woody decided to go explore their home and found themselves acting like 'the snoop sisters' ! They were into everything. After a while of sniffing here and there they had managed to put quite a distance between themselves and Gomer. Suddenly Margie looked up and realised that they were 'lost'. She was sure they had passed those 'picket fences ' before. Meanwhile , Gomer continued to snooze on the grass. Gomer said I REMEMBER MAMA saying there were going to be HAPPY DAYS, and he contined to gaze at the sky thinking Gee, Margie and her friends have been gone for a while. I'd better try and find them and make sure they're not "Lost". He walked around "Gilligan's Island" calling for Margie. He heard her barking and found her and her "Friends" frolicking among the palm trees and fallen coconuts. He called her and she came running. He was thinking that "Three's Company" for her, but 4 animals are a lot of responsibility. He decided to have a "Hart to Hart" talk with her. Well, now Margie, it seems like you made a bunch of 'friends' he told her. But our ship will be leaving for 'Laguna Beach' soon and you and I can't take all your friends with us. MargieÂs ears drooped as she realized what he was trying to say. Gomer felt so bad. He loved 'all creatures, great and small' but Connie was a little too big to take on the ship. so he called his good friends "The Beverley Hillbillies." He knew that Ellie May would take very good care of Connie and the others. He and Margie got ready to get on the ship. She said goodbye to her friends and they set sail for "Laguna Beach." Lo and behold, who else should be on the ship but all the chefs from "The Food Network." He was ecstatic....he loved food and he was so excited to meet some of his favourite chefs and try some of their menus. He was hoping to meet Guy, because when he got home he was going to go to some of his "Diners, Dives and Drive-ins" when he got home. Always one for "Good Eats", Gomer set off for the dining room, but mistakenly ended up at "Paula's Party". Being a southern boy himself he knew a thing or two about cooking and decided to do some "Down home cooking with the Nealy's", but a red headed stranger approached him and challenged him to a "Throw Down with Bobby Flay". Poor Gomer! He stammered and stuttered cause the only thing HE knew how to cook was Kraft Dinner. Thanksfully Tyler Florence saw Gomer's predicament, and he challenged Bobby Flay to a Throwdown. "Tyler's Ultimate" weapon was that he can keep calm and cool, where Bobby has a real short temper. Gomer was so pleased that Tyler challenged Bobby. DonÂt worry GomerÂ.I learned to cook from "Caroline in the City". The only thing Bobby can make is salsa and "Chips". It was an "Amazing Race" to see who would win the challenge. Gomer asked TylerÂ.what do we receive if we win the contest? Gomer..you will get "The Job" working for "Josie and the Pussycats" at their "Noble House". The loser will work as a "Jack of All Trades" for "Jon and Kate plus 8". And, "Just for Laughs", the loser also has to move to "Naked City". What!!! "Naked City"!!!! GolllyyyyyÂ.we have to win Tyler! Gomer proceeded to run around the party yellingÂ."Are You Being Served?" As he was running around Gomer accidently tripped and spilled Chocolate Covered Strawberries all over Jake and the Fat man". An irate Jake yelled "Who's the boss" here? A visibly shaken Gomer stammered, Mr. Jake I think, "Charles in Charge". Everyone in the room was hoping that Jake would take the "Higher Ground" and apologize to Gomer, but he did not, instead he threatened to a "Duel" at "High Noon" on the "Streets of San Francisco". Then Jake said...Don't look for help either. There is a "New Street Law" that states duels are allowed. Don't confuse it with the "LA LAW". Choose your weapon young man! Gomer wasn't scared though. He calmly said to Jake....Sir..I am not a coward but I have no intentions of fighting with you. Jake looked at Gomer and said I'm sorry Gomer, I'm going to take "A leap of Faith" here because "What I like about you" is that you seem like a genuine soul, much like my "Big Brother" who I miss dearly. Everyone in the room breathed a sigh of relief and the party resumed. Inwardly, Gomer breathed a sigh of relief. He bent to pat Margie's head and whispered in her ear "you see, Margie, Father Knows Best". The party continued "From Dusk to Dawn", all the while, new "Friends" Jake and Gomer talking about Jake's "Big Brother", and how Jake missed him. Margie slept curled up in Gomer's lap. The saga of Jake's brother was an interesting yarn in and of itself. It seems Jake's brother was a fellow named "Dobie Gillis". He lied about his age in order to enlist in "McHale's Navy". He did this in hopes of sending his pay back to his poor family, and be one less mouth for them to feed. Jake wiped a tear from his eye, as he continued to explain. Dobie always felt like the "5th Wheel" of the family. He thought "Eight is Enough" in one household. We didnÂt have a lot growing up either. We bought our groceries on "21 Jump Street" but we couldnÂt buy a lot. In fact we always used the "Fast Lane" where you could only have "10 Items or Less". But Dobie had big dreams. He would go "Fishing with John" and talk about how he wanted to be one of those "Forensic Investigators". He attended "Schoolhouse Rock" and after the "First 48" hours he was "Saved by the Bell". A man from the Navy encouraged Dobie to enlist to fulfill his dreams Gomer and Margie were so touched by JakeÂs story. He turned to everyone at the party and said I too had 'growing pains' in my childhood. I understand where Jake is coming from. I felt I would always be 'unhappily ever after', but I have learned that the world is a wonderous place filled with many good people and "As the World Turns" it's "Absolutely Fabulous"...not the "Alien Nation" most people think it is. Everyone cheered when in walked the "Wayan Brothers". Guess where we were? they asked....we just got back from "Vegas" with Dobie. We had a "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and drank the "Last of the Summer Wine." Jake was stunned. You were in "Vegas" with Dobie? Wait until I see him....I'm going to 'Normal,Ohio'. That's where he lives now with his second wife, "Blossom'. He met her when he was in the 'NCIS'. Gomer knew about Normal. It was anything but. "Blossom" lived in a "Different World" and everyone that knew her said she was "Crazy like a fox". Gomer, Jake and Margie were very sensitive to "Family Matters" and wanted nothing more than to have strong "Family Ties" with Blossom and Dobie. The trio arrived in 'Normal Ohio' to reunite with Dobie and Blossom, but nothing prepared them for what they were about to encounter there was a tornado warning and the 'storm chasers' were everywhere. 'The wire's ' were down ! Gomer exclaimed "this is the 'real McCoy'. WeÂre in for some "Wild Weather". The "Wind in the Willows" was blowing everyone around. Poor "Blossum" and Dobie looked like "Beauty and the Beast". Gomer said to JakeÂwe have to find shelter! LookÂthere is a theater over there. We can wait the storm out there! Gomer grabbed Margie and held her tight so she wouldnÂt get hurt. As Jake and Gomer headed towards the theater Jake saidÂthis is the "Most Haunted" looking theaterÂ.itÂs scary! They entered the dark theater and heard singing. Gomer saidÂitÂs coming from that room. When they opened the door they saw "The Muppet Show" was in progress. The Muppets" were singing and all of a sudden a beautiful burst of sound and music joined in and it was the cast of "Sesame Street!" Gomer was so excited cause he grew up with Big Bird and all the others when he was a child. He got to see his childhood heroes for real. He was so enthralled with the music and the dancing that he didn't notice Margie jump down, till she was on stage with them. She was up on her hind feet, dancing too. He was so proud of her, that his heart felt like it was going to burst with pride. His emotions were on "Wings." Before too long Jake said that they had better leave to find Dobie and Blossom. I hope 'the electric company' gets here soon, said Jake. This worries me, that we haven't heard from them. A 'policewoman' came up to them and asked if they were Jake and Gomer. They said they were. That storm came through here like 'gangbusters' she said. Have you eaten? No, Gomer said and he was thinking that poor Margie didn't have any food either. We have plenty of food. There are donations from "AppleÂs Way", the "Apple Dumpling Gang", The "Banana Splits" and others. We also got donations for our furbabies from the "Food Paradise" and "Dog the Bounty Hunter". Gomer gave Margie here plate first and she ate every bit. The "Police Woman" was happy that Gomer and Margie weren't hurt. Lots of people have injuries but we have "Dr. Zhivago, Dr. 90210 and Doogie Howser MD" on hand. We also set up a "MASH" unit as well. Gomer looked around at the devastation and said I think I'll call my "Friends" from "Extreme Makeover." They can do a few projects in a very short period of time and get this area looking like new. I must have been "Touched by an Angel" that Margie and I didn't get hurt. He wanted to chip in and help at the "Medical Center" They would be welcome for any help they could get. Gomer thought I REMEMBER MARGIE and how much I really like her. Now the 64 THOUSAND DOLLAR QUESTION, is where we will go from here. Gomer, Margie and the rest of the "Entourage" decided it best to head over to the "Medical Center", but quickly stopped by Dobie's "House" to check on "Blossom". She had recently undergone a "Nip/Tuck" and was heavily sedated. Gomer knew that he could not leave her alone, so he called Blossom's sisters, "Kate and Allie". Unfortunately Gomer was not aware that "Kate and Allie" were working on their "8 Simple Rules for dating" their teenage daughter. Their daughter is known around town as "Sabrina, the Teenage Witch." Kate and Allie are worried that she is going to hop on "The Magic School Bus" and head to "SalemÂs Lot" with the "Witch Hunter Robin". Robin, who is considered "The Worst Witch" belongs to a "Magic Users Club" located in "The Magic Garden" of SalemÂs Lot. Kate told Dobie and GomerÂ."This is the Worst Week of my Life!" What is that girl thinking?... Gomer and Dobie recommended an "Intervention" for "Kate and Allie's" daughter. They thought that was the perfect answer, and made an appointment with "Dr. Phil" as well. Meantime "Blossom" needed someone to stay with her so "SuperNanny" was called. She came over as soon as she could, met Blossom and instantly became fast "Friends." Knowing Blossom was in capable hands, Dobie, Gomer and Margie went over to the other end of town to see how the "Extreme Makeover" crew was coming along in rebuilding some of the homes Things seem to be progressing nicely. The guys from "Home Improvement" were there and each of them had a "House" to work on. But Gomer noticed that Margie seemed upset. "What is it girlÂis something wrongÂ? Margie raised her paw to Gomer, barked and turned her head. It was then Gomer saw the animals that were homeless. "Oh DearÂ.good girl Margie! We have to help them too!" Gomer grabbed his cell phone and called his "Friends" at the "Mutual of Omaha Wild Kingdom". He told them that there were homeless animals where he was and can they help with building a new shelter and zoo. Gomer went to look for 'higher ground' to build a place for all the animals so they would be safe. He was lost in thought when some one yelled "Run for your Life !" It was "Austin Stevens Snakemaster" yelling. His truck had been hit by the tornado and the cages had broken when they hit the ground. Austin said the snake were loose and he had no idea where they all went. While the others were beginning to panic Gomer kept a cool head. He grabbed Margie and told everyone that until the snakes were rounded up they could go over to "Archie Bunker's Place" and wait. Everyone headed to Archie's where they encountered Archie in a heated discussion with Meathead as usual. Gomer didn't know if he wanted to subject Margie to that kind of atmosphere, so they left and went to see "Mary Tyler Moore". She and Betty White were having lunch together, and Gomer knew that Margie would be welcome and spoiled rotten by Betty. While Betty was fussing over Margie, Gomer would get some much-needed rest. He's not used to all this excitement and pressure. He was wishing that he was back with "Andy Griffith", where life was simpler. Mary lived in the next town over called 'Cheyenne'. Mary and Betty were good friends and were remembering when they were the 'toast of the town'. Gomer was shown to his room , soon he fell into a 'twilight zone' sleep. He began dreaming about his old friends Opie, Andy and Aunt Bea. But Gomer woke with a start. He could no longer "Dream On". I'm not going to be the "Fall Guy" any longer. I feel so small here in this "Land of the Giants". I must take Margie to the "Last Place on Earth" where there are no "Far Out Space Nuts". So Gomer gathered his friends and told them he was taking Margie home to Mayberry. Mary and Betty choked back tears and said..we understand but let us take you both out for dinner and a show. With that the "Fantastic Four" headed for "Pee Wee's Playhouse". On the way, they were distracted by a film crew. It was "Animal Planet" just finishing up at Marilyn's house. They got pics of her raccoons and possums. They took one look at Margie and wanted to do a segment on her as well. Gomer figured it would be a good idea. Between "Animal Planet" and "America's Got Talent", she would be a "Nashville Star." Who knows, maybe with "The Dog Whisperer's" help, she could have a lifelong career! He had stars in his eyes, picturing her doing television interviews on "Good Morning America", "Oprah", and Jay Leno on "the Tonite Show." Gomer was day dreaming about the talk show circuit when someone tapped him on his shoulder. Gomer turned around and saw it was Pee Wee Herman. Pee Wee said...Gomer..I know what you are thinking but don't do it. I don't want you to get "Caught on Tape" and end up on "America's Most Wanted". Go back to "Mayberry" and forget about this "Star Search". Don't put yourself or Margie through that. Gomer came down from his "7th Heaven" and thanked Pee Wee. You're right my friend...this is not for me or Margie. And with that Gomer and Margie headed towards. The place where they truly belonged, Mayberry. Gomer had experienced so many ups and downs on his journey and finally deemed himself a true "survivor" and often times he and Margie felt like "heroes" to the many people that needed his help. Gomer prayed that Mayberry was still the same innocent place that he had come to know and love. So, "In the heat of the night", Gomer and Margie boarded a bus and headed home. Gomer had just settled Margie in her seat when this voice behind him said "Hi"- my name is 'Joe Schmo' and this is my wife 'Cybill'...where are you headed? he asked. Margie stood up on the seat and peeked at the man and woman behind her. She started barking! She was so excited! They were each holding a little dog and each one looked just like her !!! Whoa, Joe Schmo said. Your pup looks just like our, 'Pixie and Dixie'. Then he frowned. Where did you get that dog? he demanded. Uh-Oh thought Gomer. This is Margie. I got her from the "North Shore Animal League." I've had her for years, and she's my very best friend. Well, Joe said. We had 3 identical dogs and the third went missing. It looked an awful lot like yours. That's impossible, Gomer stated. I bought and paid for her. They were "Absolutely Fabulous" there. We've been together for so long, that "As Time Goes By" she is more and more a part of me. They then wondered if Margie was stolen from them, but ended up at the "Long Shore Animal Rescue." Regardless Margie belongs to Gomer and he couldn't wait to get to "Mayberry" to be among his "Friends" again. Joe still wasn't convinced. Our dogs each had a distinctive tatoo on their bellies. Joe picked up his video camera and said..I want this "Caught on Tape". Gomer picked up Margie nervously...please don't have any tatoos he thought. Margie turned on her back and luckily she had no markings. Gomer was so relieved he said "Happy Days" are here again. Joe apologized to Gomer and said we will continue looking for our lost puppy. As they continued down the road Gomer saw something out of the corner of his eye. why that looks like....yeah ... it is !!!! It was his old friend ! 'Oh, Susanna' he called. The woman turned and he saw that it wasn't her. She walked over to him and said I get that all the time. Ever since my "Extreme Makeover" everyone calls me Susanna. My name is "Allie McBeal". She turned to walk away when Gomer said oh.I thought you were related to my boyhood friends "Starsky and Hutch. Oh, I lived next door to "Starsky and Hutch". We hung out all the time, you may remember me from then. They were sure "Happy Days" for me. I was a real tomboy as a kid, and when I grew up, I was told to start acting like a lady, and I did, cause "Father Knows Best." So now I own a shop called "Designing Women" and it's a huge success. What are you doing these days? Gomer repliedÂ.Margie and I have been traveling around the country mostly. We have met up with old friends and made new ones along the way. It wasnÂt until recently that I realized that I needed to get it out of my system and start to settle down. All this traveling has taken a toll on us. So Margie and I are headed back to our "Green Acres" where we can sit out at night watching the "Stars on Ice." With that Gomer picked up Margie in his arms and said "MargieÂletÂs go home.

Another one-- ...When you attend a professional meeting, and, instead of trading business cards with the other attendees, you talk gardening and composting, and get an offer of leaves from someone who has a great big oak tree in her yard! * Posted by: kdbern Georgia (My Page) on Sun, Feb 9, 03 at 21:54 I can't believe my luck today! I have spent 8 hours mulching and raking leaves to bring home from a friend?s house on a beautiful sunny day, then I find this link and have had the best time reading it. I had even asked my hubby today to pee on the compost and he said I was crazy! I feel like this was such a wonderful day, I can't think of any other way I would have liked to spend it and this definitely was the best way to end it. * Posted by: roselust z10, so cal (My Page) on Sun, Feb 9, 03 at 22:11 ...when you find yourself seated in a chair with a glass of chardonnay in one hand and using the other to hand-pick earthworms from your compost pile during a beautiful sunset, knowing life cant get any better. * Posted by: Okanagan z5-6 BC (My Page) on Mon, Feb 10, 03 at 15:32 Oh I'm glad I found this web site. I thought I was the only wacko who turned the compost for peace of mind, always curious to find out what is going on in there, scavenging compostables everywhere, including the clippings from haircuts and cat-combing, and the dirty dishwater. Now if I can reroute the greywater... A number of people IRL call me "the compost lady" ... but that is not going to distinguish me here, is it? :) ...when your favourite book is "Compost This Book". * Posted by Mountainsong z7b GA (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 11:51 I am going into withdrawal from the compost wacko thread! I tend to be way too serious, so when I first found the thread this fall, and sat there on Saturday mornings reading it and laughing out loud, my family was amazed! Now, stress from my job is reaching epic proportions, and I NEED to connect to other wackos! Where are you? (You know you're a compost wacko if you look for the thread on Saturday morning and are forlorn when you can't find it!) * Posted by: TXDana z8TX (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 12:57 I've been wondering where they were, too! Then I remembered that I consider myself a CW. A few days ago my husband and I drove to a friend of my husband's house. This was the first time I had been to his house and the first time I had met him. Normal people greet people with "hello, how are you?" type of comments. Not this compost wacko! He said "hello" to me, and I responded with "I wish I had brought a bucket so I could have taken some of your horse manure". My husband just sighed and shook his head. He really thinks I'm a nut. Did I help your withdrawal? * Posted by: Mountainsong z7b GA (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 13:54 Dana, thanks for your compassion! I'm going to seek further therapy by checking out the new worm farm to see if any of our 10 cocoons have hatched yet (yes, I counted them, but they were in a large yogurt container at the time, so that's not too weird, right?) Vermiculturists are kindred spirits! :0) * Posted by: Demeter z6 NJ (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 14:34 Alas, with a forum as active as this one, if a thread has not been posted to for more than a month and a half or so, it vanishes off the bottom of the list ... and the wacko threads are so popular that they rapidly reached the 100 post limit and then naturally passed into oblivion. Sooooo..... somebody start a new "You Know You're A Compost Wacko" thread! * Posted by: ryanzone7 z7MD (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 16:05 ...you know you're a compost wacko when you're standing with a group of people who know you are a cw, except for one person and when that person sez something even remotely related to compost EVERYONE looks right at YOU! * Posted by: thorspippi z9 Sac CA (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 16:51 I'm not yet even a certified CW and they're already doing that.... simply because I'm now spinning & weaving my dog's hair! Therefore, I must be some kind of Generic Nature Wacko (GNW). Hey, he is a LONG HAIR german shepherd and he's 100 lbs... that's a LOT OF HAIR. My worms simply couldn't handle all that hair. * Posted by: zabby17 z5a Canada (My Page) on Sat, Feb 7, 04 at 22:50 ... when your dog gets excited if you pick up the kitchen compost bucket. (Not, alas, because she's particularly interested in recycling or gardening, but because she knows her nightly pee outing to the back yard happens when Zabby's ready to take the scraps out to the composter... [hey, I'm not going out there TWICE on one of these cold nights!]) * Posted by: Bostonian z6 MA (My Page) on Sun, Feb 8, 04 at 9:27 The women in the H.S. Cafeteria where I work save me the coffee grounds and veggie scraps. The maintenance men roam through the kitchen picking up the cardboard boxes and sometimes find my scraps and throw them out! Now the women are like no, that?s Kathy?s. Then they give me a look like ?We don?t understand you but we once again protected your trash" * Posted by: PaulNS NS zone 6a (My Page) on Sun, Feb 8, 04 at 10:56 It's late fall. You get on your jacket to go out and empty the compost bucket onto the pile and take its temperature. Then you reconsider and put on a warmer jacket and gloves, so that the experience will be leisurely instead of rushed. * Posted by: plumeria50 z9CA (My Page) on Sun, Feb 8, 04 at 12:43 ...you know you're a compost wacko when you have to wait for night fall to sneak into the front yard to dig a very big hole to put some gross, refrigerator dead stuff in...hoping the neighbors arent going to walk by any time soon. * Posted by: JCin_Los_Angeles z10, Sunset 22, (My Page) on Mon, Feb 9, 04 at 0:29 ...when your DH comes back from the car wash very embarrassed about the horse manure that had slipped out of the box on the way home from the stable. There were horse turds in plain sight and everyone saw them, and he can't see why we had to use HIS car. (Because he has a hatchback and we had to fit the bale of straw in there too.) He complains about having a compost wacko for a wife but doesn't complain at all about the fruits and vegetables! * Posted by: Clare z6 MO (My Page) on Mon, Feb 9, 04 at 10:44 ...when you feel like you've hit the jackpot upon seeing that someone abandoned a bale of straw on the K-Mart parking lot and you get to put it in your trunk and bring it home. * Posted by: Karalyn Z6 W. Boise (My Page) on Mon, Feb 9, 04 at 11:43 Two things I did or plan on doing is; I over heard a woman that I know at church talk to a little girl about coming over to feed her horses. I asked, Hey, do you have any horse poop I can have?" She said, "Oh, do we, my husband would be very glad to get rid of some." She lives close by, so I just need my pick up truck and persuade my 18 year old son that he wants to help me, since we are paying for his first credit card boo boos. Also, when I take my 12 year old son to school a few times, I notice a bale of hay on the roadside in front of their house, I don't know if it is for the garbage man to take or what, but their garbage was out and the bale is still there. So I will check it out later to see if they pick up the bale of hay or straw. I was in my PJ's at the time, so I wasn't going to ring their door bell. Also, I go out in the dark or with my coat on over my PJ's and at night dump out shredded paper, etc. on certain areas of my yard that needs it. * Posted by: ryanzone7 z7MD/ professor dirt (My Page) on Mon, Feb 9, 04 at 12:05 ...you drive by three bale's of straw left over from construction (used as a silt block over the storm drains a year ago) sitting in the middle of Georgia Ave near Whites hardware and you lust for them and are just waiting for the right time to snatch them (before they wash INTO the repaired storm drains and cause a "construction repeat".) Perhaps tommorow. It all leads back to compost! * Posted by: maryann12 7 (My Page) on Mon, Feb 9, 04 at 17:24 You know you are becoming a wacko?.. When your brother and his wife visit from out of state (they have a compost pile), you don't worry about how your house looks, you worry about how your compost pile looks. * Posted by: Harimad zone 7 (My Page) on Wed, Feb 11, 04 at 10:03 You know you're a compost wacko when... ... even though you detest coffee, you consider working at Starbucks for easy access to its trash. You know you're a compost wacko when... ... the weekly pound of coffee goes straight to the garden, never seeing the inside of your kitchen. * Posted by: Karalyn Z6 W. Boise (My Page) on Wed, Feb 11, 04 at 11:02 ...you know you have become one, when you slyly walk over to check out your neighbor's garbage and her recycle bin. Bonanza! The blue bin is full of newspaper. I checked a dog food bag, hoping to see some newspaper waste from her big parrots. I didn't dare lift the lids to the other garbage cans. But I did rake up the leaves on her property next to mine where we share a mutual irrigation ditch plus all the wonderful rotting maple leaves in the ditch. I built a compost bin nearby with builder's block from my FIL's old milk house built in 1929. We have a bunch more to collect from eastern Idaho. Lined it with a some newspaper, then a wet phone book someone threw into our trash can next to our shop doors and also a bag full of apples! Must have been my eldest son or my hubby. I couldn't believe my find. My 12 year old saves the phone books for his BSA camp outs. Good to start a fire with LOL So I guess he missed out on this one. WE get extra phone books from our neighbors who passes them out in the fall. One thing my son did was have the nerve to take one of the blocks from my compost bin to place under his snowmobile trailer's tongue when he got back. I did go out later at night to get the dog food bag and some more newspaper. Then in the morning, I could have gotten more newspaper, but didn't dare. I think the recycle people would be disappointed. Now I'm just going to ask her if I can collect her used paper. The dog food bag was a bust. Oh, well. * Posted by: snowgardener z4 NY (My Page) on Thu, Feb 12, 04 at 14:35 ...you know you're a compost wacko when you make your kids bring home their banana peels, orange peels, apple cores, etc. from their school lunches. * Posted by: Mountainsong z7b GA (My Page) on Thu, Feb 12, 04 at 22:26 ...you know you're a compost wacko when your 8-year-old daughter shows definite signs of indoctrination: upon arriving at Starbuck's, she hurries straight past the plate of amazing chocolate chunk cookies to the "Free Coffee Grounds" basket, and returns announcing gleefully: "There are 7 bags of coffee grounds. Seven!" ... when you're embarrassed that your neighbor returning home at 8:30 p.m. will catch you in the headlights, and see that you are dumping your latest Starbucks cache onto one of the front yard's lasagna beds in the pitch dark. You are not, however, embarrassed enough to stop your chore, and dump three more bags on the bed before calling it a night. * Posted by: ryanzone7 z7MD/professor dirt (My Page) on Thu, Feb 12, 04 at 23:04 ...you think about piles (bins/tumbler loads/whateva) you've had in the past and remember them fondly like some people remember baseball games they've attended or first (second or third) dates they've had. ialbtc * Posted by: TeresaInCAL 9 California ) on Fri, Feb 13, 04 at 17:04 Hey, I thought I was the only one who thought about getting a job at Starbucks, JUST for the coffee grounds...LOL I've also considered buying cheep coffee (on sale) JUST for the compost pile... * Posted by: Linda_8B (My Page) on Fri, Feb 13, 04 at 17:43 Ha! I actually considered a part-time job at a local grocery store, just for the compost materials. Later I found out that they're so strict about not giving out the veggie and fruit waste that any employee giving any away to customers or taking any home can be fired. The dumpsters are those large closed systems, so can't even raid them. What a world we live in! * Posted by: Storygardener 5/6 central oh (My Page) on Fri, Feb 13, 04 at 17:54 I guess I am a compost wacko too...yes, whenever I watch the cooking shows on TV I am just as interested in the scraps of veggies, peels , etc -as I am interested in the finished dish. * Posted by: Alfie_MD6 (My Page) on Sat, Feb 14, 04 at 8:00 ...you embarrass your sister-in-law by waiting until everyone is looking the other way and then whipping out the plastic bags you somehow always seem to have in your bookbag and packing up the amazing quantity of ordered, paid for, and uneaten food the playgroup that just went away left for the café to throw out. (Actually, she was quite understanding; it's just that her particular anti-waste thing is the amount of packaging everything comes in.) ...you ignore all of the plants at the twice-yearly plant swap just so that you can go talk to Professor Dirt about how he gets to compost for a living. * Posted by: Byron 4a/5b NH (My Page) on Sat, Feb 14, 04 at 14:16 Just spotted a new farm up the street (about 2 country miles) That now has chickens, sheep and cows The cow pile has about 3 pick up loads already :-) * Posted by: ryanzone7 z7MD/professor dirt (My Page) on Sun, Feb 15, 04 at 5:19 I miss my windrow turner, I all have now to turn my "big" piles is a farm tractor, and for the task at hand it's like using a shovel to sweep the side walk, it can do it but ......... How's that for being a compost wacko? * Posted by: catfromtex 9 - Sunny So Cal (My Page) on Sun, Feb 15, 04 at 11:50 ...you know you're a wacko when you've accepted a new job w/great $$ and benefits and the part you?re excited about is having access to the muck from your new employer's horse stables. * Posted by: maryslc z5-6 (My Page) on Mon, Feb 16, 04 at 0:10 ...you REALLY know you're a compost wacko when a a co-worker says they haven't been able to bring themselves to spread a family members cremains.............and you eagerly offer to take care of it for them. * Posted by: squeeze z8 BC (My Page) on Mon, Feb 16, 04 at 0:40 they know you're wacky at the stable where you're picking up a truckload of horse biscuits, when they say "can you take this bale of moldy hay?" and you say "yes, PLEASE!!" - and they do look at you funny, when you say "thank you very much!" * Posted by: veilchen 5b s. Maine (My Page) on Mon, Feb 16, 04 at 8:02 That before you even saw this thread, you reminded yourself this morning to check the weather report on the computer before you log off, to see if there is going to be a thaw anytime soon so you can try to turn your compost pile. * Posted by: thorspippi z9 Sac CA (My Page) on Mon, Feb 16, 04 at 14:04 ...when your husband offers to start up a newspaper subscription because you've been bugging him to put his office papers in a separate box so you can shred it. (I told him NO that defeats the whole point!) * Posted by: cherylm z5ma (My Page) on Mon, Feb 16, 04 at 23:24 when you're accumulating a plastic storage boxful in the basement- coffee grounds, fruit and veg peels, a little shredded newspaper and a dab of old potting soil- no smell! and if it ever gets warm enough and melts some snow, i might get it to the real pile! * Posted by: plumeria50 z9CA (My Page) on Wed, Feb 18, 04 at 4:33 You know you're a compost wacko when you are eyeing the neighbors? pumpkins on display for Halloween and wondering how you are going to slyly get some of those pumpkins for your compost heap. Also, how you are going to pick up several on the curb before the garbage trucks come for them...without the neighbors seeing you. * Posted by: Harimad zone 7 (My Page) on Wed, Feb 18, 04 at 11:09 If you're worried about the neighbors seeing you, you may still be wacko-in-training. When you don't care, then you're definitely a wacko. If your neighbors give it to you or put it in your pile instead of in the trash can, then you're a prophet (ie, wacko with following). * Posted by: organic_johnny z6b PA (My Page) on Wed, Feb 18, 04 at 11:57 When you send your teenage son out for leaf bags...(which my mom did to me...I'm a 2nd gen cw). * Posted by: PaulNS NS zone 6a (My Page) on Wed, Feb 18, 04 at 12:34 When you create a 4'x4'x4' pile of crab waste and sawdust compost in a hurry, not mixing the materials enough or using enough sawdust, so that your good intentions turn into a Raging Pile of Stink which drifts clear over to the neighbours' place and lies down heavily on them during a heat wave and they are good neighbours so they only mention it politely after putting up with it for three days and you do everything within your power to muffle the smell including shovelling garden soil on top and surrounding the pile with bales of straw, to no avail, and all the while you're secretly and gleefully gloating over the big pile of rot in your yard which, really, objectively speaking, any normal person would consider smells fascinating. * Posted by: Storygardener 5/6 central oh (My Page) on Wed, Feb 18, 04 at 12:52 ....when at the garden club meeting last night I took all the plant litter from the demonstration and put it in my coat pocket for my compost pile. * Posted by: Nelz z5b/6 NW PA (My Page) on Thu, Feb 19, 04 at 23:49 Your wife mentions horse and pony for herself and daughter, and all you can picture is a pitchfork, a wheel barrow, and a dirty stall, and you smile LARGE!! * Posted by: Karalyn Z6 W. Boise (My Page) on Fri, Feb 20, 04 at 13:58 You are a wacko when....you go to your son's high school for a ski trip meeting and notice the little tractor and flatbed trailer full of bags and pizza boxes! I just grab 2 boxes on our way out, and I think one had spit on it from a student from the above corridor. This was around 7:45PM and dark. Also, the next door neighbor that I took some newspaper from her bin comes over to where I'm adding to the compost bin and I'm in my pj's, coat and NEW BLUE RUBBER BOOTS and asks, "What do I have there?" I told her what I was up to and told her I was raking up the leaves in the ditch, clearing up the grass, etc. She said I could have all the leaves I want and I asked about the newspaper and she said she'll just leave the bin by my compost bin. Cool, huh? ;-) Also, when hubby comes home from Nevada after cleaning casinos and brings me two packets of coffee that will make 4 cups. LOL Not quite the garbage bag full of Starbuck's coffee grounds, but I'm sure it will make a nice tea! I still don't have him "dumpster diving" at the restaurants he takes care of for greens or coffee grounds etc. He says it is very messy! Hah! * Posted by: bakemom z6 Ohio (My Page) on Sat, Feb 21, 04 at 0:05 Beverly - You're HERE! I just hopped over to check out a lasagna thread and here you are. Will you be full of instruction at the swap? I'm just chucking stuff here and there and throwing in a bit of shredded paper work. I don't know what I'm doing but things seem to grow better. Help! I'm a winter sowing junkie and thinking this is right up my alley. * Posted by: Storygardener 5/6 central oh (My Page) on Sat, Feb 21, 04 at 7:24 Hi Bakemom!! Well, I have been composting for nearly two years. Most of what I know - came from this forum. I just keep reading all the time and learning! I have done one lasagna garden. It's a veggie garden that I 'layered up' year and a half ago. I have the book if you want to borrow it. ....Beverly * Posted by: PaulNS NS zone 6a (My Page) on Sat, Feb 21, 04 at 12:48 Karalyn, Queen of the Wackos, composting student spit :) A snowstorm drops 90 cm/3 feet of snow on your area and the compost pile is 30m/100 feet from the house so you toss your kitchen scraps on the snow outside the front door and tell yourself you're sheet composting. * Posted by: Karalyn Z6 W. Boise (My Page) on Sun, Feb 22, 04 at 11:21 Paul, I love it! Tossing your scraps out the door. I do that with banana peelings outside my front door where the rose bushes are and the clematis plants. I understand they like the potassium in them. But now that I've come to this forum, I snip them in itty bitty pieces into an ice cream pail while listening to Dr. Phil, Montel, or Oprah. I'm behind you guys in my composting and need to speed things up! ;-) BTW, there were a lot more pizza boxes but I know DS wouldn't be interested in helping me nor waiting. But now I know another goldmine, the SCHOOL! * Posted by: Nelz z5b/6 NW PA (My Page) on Mon, Feb 23, 04 at 1:05 I have so many (currently 9) coffee ground buckets out (grocery store cafe's, teacher break rooms, church kitchen, etc.) that I need a list to keep track of emptying them. Plus I put my phone number on the lids so someone calls me when it's near full. BTW, most places have appropriate sized buckets so pick-ups can be done at the same time, yet I still have full buckets to pick-up, and I am not taking up extra space under their counter. This spring I hope to get others to start taking those grounds (will replace phone number lids with blank ones) so I can quit the circuit pick-up, now that I have starbucks on the hook for quite a bit 1 or 2x a week. * Posted by: flora_uk SW UK 8/9 (My Page) on Wed, Feb 25, 04 at 8:57 YKYACWW .... you hear a wail from the living room. Your daughter has just puked up on the carpet. You eye it up. Not toooo sloppy. Grab a piece of cardboard, scoop and run down the garden to the pile. Mission accomplished, you come back and start to mop up daughter. Got to get your priorities right. * Posted by: Karalyn Z6 W. Boise (My Page) on Wed, Feb 25, 04 at 16:35 FLora-ROTFL! * Posted by: Karalyn Z6 W. Boise (My Page) on Sun, Mar 7, 04 at 11:26 I scored the other day! I was going to a school meeting for my 12 year old, went through the fancy new neighborhood and saw the grounds workers cutting down tree branches and all the grasses (ornamental) and they were put in piles on the lawn later to be picked up. I made a mental note to go back and ask about the grasses. I took a different route home, but made a quick left turn into the subdivision. I asked the first guy, they are from Mexico and don't speak much English, but enough to direct me to the boss. He said fine and I offered my club wagon to put the grass into. They said "No, they wouldn't fit." I have all my bench seats in it. (I loved how they talked amongst themselves in spanish to decide about taking them to where I live which is behind the new subdivision) They actually loaded all the cut grasses and raked up leaves and put them in their truck and took them to my house and unloaded them for me. I wasn't expecting such service. They said they would just dump them anyway. So, I scored big time in the goal of getting other people's mulch and having it delivered. Where is that thread anyway?! I told them they can dump more of their grasses. They weren't done with this big subdivision and they also mow the shared grassy area and little parks. So I told them feel free to dump the grass too! When the grass gets long enough to mow. Plus I got the main guy's card to have him do some pruning and other stuff for me. I think the crew was amazed that this blonde haired lady, driving a ford clubwagon was willing to load it up with all the tall grasses! Let alone talk to them, as some people in this manicured area probably wouldn't bother speaking to them. Okay, is the yellow ornamental grass considered a brown or green? * Posted by: sylviatexas z8 Tx (My Page) on Mon, Mar 8, 04 at 17:15 One day I was to meet friends for a drink after work. I got there early, &, being a naturally shy & bashful person, I sat at the bar & talked to the bartender about my enthusiasm for Starbucks coffee grounds, other people's leaves, etc. Gary was the first to arrive. Gary's a hoot. He's one of those people who's always sanitizing their hands & spritzing the kitchen counter with anti-bacterial stuff. He sat down next to me just as the bartender said, "I just finished making myself a pitcher of tea. Would you like the teabag?" & I said *yes*! Of course! Thank you very much! So she put it in a sandwich bag for me. Gary eyed it & shuddered. The bartender, seeing his reaction, looked at him speculatively & said, "We roasted some peanuts in the shells earlier today for happy hour. Would you like the shells?" So she & I scooped peanut shells into my sandwich baggie as Gary made faces & shuddered. * Posted by: antic_zone9 z9FL (My Page) on Mon, Mar 15, 04 at 20:13 You know you're a compost wacko (or a wannabe) when: ...you take morning walks on trashday, pretending to be exercising, when you're really scouting the free bags of leaves. ...you walk the same route again, this time with the dog, in order not to arouse suspicion because you want to snag a beautiful closet door that will make a perfect wormbin (because of it's louvers). :) ...you don't worry about working out in a gym because you get your upper body workout by forking and turning your garbagecan compost bin. :) ...your DW is actually proud of you because of your commitment to something worthwhile (although you know she wonders about your sanity sometimes!) ;) ...you're ticked off that you can't compost plastic, because it won't break down within your lifetime, but you are happy that you are composting 60% of your garbage! ...you read composting books in the restroom and wonder if the DW would EVER let you have a composting toilet in the next house. (even if it was YOU that maintained it!) ...you subconsciously thank all of those hard-working neighbors who painstakingly rake up all of their leaves so you can steal their bags the next morning! ;) ...(this has been said before, but what the heck!) You wonder if the next occupants of the house will take advantage of the fresh composted soil for gardening that the previous owner had spent years transforming from a sandtrap. ...you think about all the OGM that is wasted daily and sleep very well that night knowing that you are doing your small part to hug the earth. * Posted by: maryslc z5-6 (My Page) on Fri, Mar 26, 04 at 23:31