Since I was here last, I've added about half my current list that's somewhere on here. Where did I put that? Is it my "plants to trade"? Anyway, they're all there, lots and lots of new beauties. I only started collecting roses in 2004, and I added 50-60 this spring. I could now say that I have my Ultimate Rose Wish List complete. ........for now........*wink* Hey, Carla, I remember you. If it helps, I was the nut-case who collected the giant Rose Questionnaire one year and then never (ahem) got back to it. I still have the intention of doing that, if I can just get my darned real-life to-do list caught up!

Coupla times im my life, I've been able to sit on my hair. One of the times I said I was going to cut, DH said 'Whoa, Nelly!' I explained that he had No Idea what work long hair took, and he could have a say in the matter if he washed, combed out, and braided my hair for 7 days... (insert evil grin). We all know washing is a 'walk in the park'. Combing out takes training and patience and remembering to Start At The Ends! So, three days he did well with all of the requirements, but he begged off braiding. By day five he said 'Okay, I GET it. Do what you want...' I've had my hair long coupla times past that. I went to Colorado for four weeks and took care of my moms farm in mid-summer during the 112* days. I promised myself I would NEVER COMPLAIN about the weather again, and that I wouldn't handicap myself either. I donated 12 inches of hair to Locks of Love; they bound it near the length I was certain I wanted to go back to. They bound and cut, right there. Oooop, toooo late now! I've found good products for lift, and understand how my 32 cow licks work, and explain that style HAS to be cut in on my head. I part on the far right, my hair has a mind of its own, and I will Not Be Happy if you don't 'listen to the hair'!!! Great seeing & MEETING everyone!

Oh yeah, I hear you! First off, I completely agree that sugar is insidious and makes you crave more and more. I do keep the maple syrup in the fridge for a quick hit (a spoonful or two) if it's dire, but honestly, the more sugar you can keep out, the better. I liked the stevia brand called Truvia, but alas I'm allergic. However it's a great taste substitute if DH wants to sprinkle sugar on something like grapefruit or berries that might need a bit of sweetener. I'm down to one or less diet sodas per day and trying to be good. There's lots of Perrier in my pantry and lemon wedges on hand to quench my thirst. I'm sure if you cut your carbs your triglycerides will drop dramatically. A couple we know went on Dr. Steven Gundry's diet and changed the way that they eat. He (the husband) had extremely high triglycerides and some gallbladder issues and now he's a convert! The plan is restrictive, but comes with recipes to help you. Frankly I don't know if a foodie like us could adhere to it completely, but if it's for a reduced time, it's not so bad. Finally, I have sworn off of many sweetened jams and jellies. I enjoy the ones that are naturally sweetened and a spoonful of one of those helps to satisfiy my cravings. I especially like Cracker Barrel's apple butter---ordered six jars after tasting it on our trip to PA! Another arrow in my quiver is Barney Butter, a slightly sweetened almond butter that's delish! I buy the jars and the individual packets (online or at Whole Foods) and if I'm really craving sweets, the sweetened fat in a spoonful or packet can help beat the craving. I keep them in my purse, desk and nearby to help stave off the urge! Good luck girlfriend, it's tough! Here is a link that might be useful: Gundry

Ok it's been a while but the PB is also been taking his time away :) Here is the decking. I went ahead and added another 400 sqft which totaled just over 1100 sqft. I already had 700sqft slate patio. Here is a few photos: I chose the lighter pattern so it would not be so hot on my daughter's feet. Almost there thank god. I think I see a little light at the end of that very long tunnel . :)