Yes, don't BOINK to early. I've been busy with just the topic of your poem so I did not get here for awhile. It was hubby's birthday, so the family came to visit, including the grandchild, the sound of a child's laughter. A bird's nest is growing in our tree, the kitchen aromas were tempting. And yes, a pair of little bitty sandals were parked at the door along with all the "big" shoes. I don't know much of anything about poetry or "prose" for that matter. I'm literal, and you write about things I can identify with.

I agree with that Philosophy. I sent it to a couple of people, including myself that might need some balance in their lives. Thanks

Regarding the recipe, 1/2 cup of 12-12-12 is too much unless spread evenly over an area of, say, 4 x 4'.. For an average plant I apply a handful, less than 3 oz. Chemical fertilizer needs to be applied more than once a year because the nitrogen only lasts 6 weeks, regardless of quantity applied. The bone meal is redundant since the 12-12-12 has way more phosphate than the rose can use in a year. The chicken manure poses a risk of burning if applied along with a lot of chemical fertilizer-- both contain fast nitrogen. Mixed organic fertilizers are usually applied at 1-2 cups per square yard and maybe 5 cups per year for your very long growing season. The main differences (beyond the lower analysis) are that mixed organic fertilizers: 1. contain trace and minor elements 2. contain slow nitrogen that is released over approximately the whole season 3. contain less fast nitrogen, so that greater amounts can be applied at once without burning.

There are a couple of political quotes which hit home today and as far as dogs go, they deserve heaven a lot more than many people.