Oh, no! I just saw the posts here. I can make the 8th, but not the 15th as I'll be away on vacation in the desert. I have lots of huge plants taking over and need to remove some of them if I can find the roots over in China. If the swap is the 8th, I may need to do some swapping a la carte and will let you all know what I have. Or maybe I can pass off some stuff to someone to take to the swap for me? I don't really 'need' more plants. :) Susan

Fun, maybe we'll see you there. It's a long wait though...but at least it's something to keep us going before the June plant swap in Plymouth. That's one of our big seasonal highlights. Looking out at all this snow and ice makes summer seem so far away. At least there's catalogs to page through!

Oops! My bad. I spoke with my parents last night and it turns out the Kindergardeners' parents are helping collect boxes now. On the other hand, if anyone out there likes this potential volunteer option, call the school--they may need more help!

Before I started to volunteer I would get there about a half hour early. It probably wouldn't hurt to get there an hour before. It is nice that you can get the wrist band and then go look at the vendors that are outside of the building and just keep an eye on the lines to see when it is going to be your turn. It is very organized. When you look at the catalog you will see little trucks by some of the plants. That means that they will be restocked on Saturday. The more rare plants and bulbs go fast.You should also check online before you go to see what did not come in. There are always crop failures. Plus they do have some last minute changes. Since your priority is the natives go there first. The plants are organized in the same order as the catalog so write up your list by the numbers like N103, N105 etc. N being for native. I bring my own cart since they only have so many carts. Then I can take it back to the car with me. Have a list with second choices when something you want is gone. The prices are great and you can still spend an amazing about of money so unless you have unlimited funds figure out how much you want/can spend beforehand since you will see lots of plants you can't live without that aren't on your list. Do have your gardens ready to plant so you don't have to let what you buy sit around in the pots to very long. Consider the plant exchange that I am hosting there are always extra plants having a new house without plants to share all you need to bring is food. I for one will have a lot more to give away then I will choose. My beds are bursting with plants.