I missed the fact that it was my turn, possibly because I've been working on my glögg recipe for several days, trying to duplicate the one I remember from my Swedish grandmother's house at Christmas. There are so many completely different recipes that it's taking quite a toll on us to try them all. Burgundy or sherry? Port or brandy? Whiskey or vodka? I'd like to have it right by Christmas, but that means starting the testing earlier and earlier each day. What space do we have left? I'm wondering if we can try hardy kiwi in this locale; although they are hardy to -25, the buds can be blasted by late cold snaps. They might succeed with some shade to the east, which would potentially delay the formation of buds. They could be grown along the fence, with the grapes, but I'll defer to northern gardeners who know if this is unrealistic. Alternatively, if our virtual homeowners are really into fruit, they should probably have some "real" strawberries. They could be grown in a long narrow bed inside the fence (we still have a fence, even though George has banished the deer, don't we? Or, maybe we have enough fruit for this garden. Do we also need to talk about the materials we're going to use, like paving and mulch, and about how this area will relate to the rest of the yard? Is it going to evoke an old New England farm yard and orchard, or be a more formal space? Will we include flowers and grasses, or will it be strictly devoted to fruit? Can we have a table and some chairs out here, where we (um, I mean they) can sit and enjoy this garden?

(((Steph))), you sweet lady! It can't be easy for you to make these posts and we certainly do appreciate the sharing of how you're feeling and helping us to understand this amazing process. My first impression of you still holds true, after several years now; you've always known where you were going and ready to work for what you need in your life. You are definitely brave! Wish I could find it, because I have a picture of my son at Grant's age..almost an identical pose in the crib..Billy always woke up with a smile on his sweet face and ready for his day to begin. Granlan Hugs :)

I have shivers of excitement and anticipation running up my spine as I read this, and I don't even know you personally... only through this website. I hope and pray ALL goes very well, and that it's a total success. My niece had one child, a boy, her first ivf....then twins...boy/girl the last time. I wish you all the best. Shirley

Here's a few more Grant is with my SIL's dog, Captain. She brought him over to play with Grant last month. Grant LOVED having him here and he made me cry because he looks and acts sooooooo much like Dakota. I miss her so bad. I love her baby blues!