That's better than any price I've found so far. I was just browsing around looking for something to use with a gnome door as an entry to a cave. Bird houses from gnarled wood sound interesting. Do you have pictures posted here? We put our pond in three years ago; a 220 gallon preform. Then last year we took it out and replaced it with a 500 gallon liner pond. I would have liked to make it bigger, but we were restricted by the area it's in. Now we keep talking about putting in a gazebo that's encircled by a pond, with a bridge access to the gazebo. We may have to keep talking for a while, though, because it will be a big, expensive project. Ponds are a lot of fun and definitely addictive!

Ophelia, we use MiracleGro or MG for Roses, whichever is cheaper. We feed on the light side. I've never hurt roses feeding them too little. Besides that I'm a tightwad. They get epsom salt and chelated iron in spring. I topdress the beds with screened (half inch screen) compost from our pile in spring too. Thanks for the compliments :) Strange thing is... the garden itself is much more impressive than the pics are. I try to be pleasant with all visitors but sometimes I have ask them if I can come visit their roses and see how much better their foliage is. Hi Kathy :) I'm outta here before dawn to go to work weekdays. I've thought of washing the roses early on weekends. That would get the lawn wet. We spend a lot of time on our hands and knees out there on weekends. It is nice having a climate where I can get them wet in the evenings. I get home from work and that is my presoak before I take a shower. It is very enjoyable seeing the clean, shiny leaves. Of course we won't mention the windstorms that come through and the dust on the wet leaves becomes mud :) Ya gotta have sense of humor to grow roses in Montana. I keep telling myself that.... The clematis foliage responds to the washing even more that the rose foliage.

Eloise yes please do tell about what the *shooting* is all about lol. There is no fireworks inside city limits. Now if I had Maddy I would go somewere with her to see it. I get to call my german relatives 7 hours before WE have New Years. Barb I can see them with pistols and shotguns...From the New years Celebrations in Germany I am glad that I do not have to be out there anymore. Way to many people get hurt. It is a lot nicer to just look and watch the fireworks. Now that I am more set in my ways lol Bob are you ok again? I still love it that you shared that special party with us. Now 2009 can come. After all the road trips will be great and you have it a lot easier to stay in touch with the ones you love...US :-)))))) Dorothy who won the paintball fight? Sure would like to know. Do you play also? So nice that they are coming back to start the New Year with you! What else do you need! gg so sorry to hear that you are sick :-( and have to work. I hope that you will get better soon. The softnes of the picture came about because I am playing with the new camera lol. Kristy yours are sure taking their time. How far along are they? I ones read that a Amaryllis should always get the stem first, bloom and then have the leaves grow. Only the one from Deb did that. Is there a difference? Susan yes I do NOW. I am doing catch up on all the things I had no time to do while getting ready for Christmas. This one is called Appleblossom and was a medium tall growing Amaryllis. Which made it a LOT easier because the stalk did not want to fall over. No tying it on the basket lol. So Susan I will see you here on New Years Eve and we party lol. Cause I think the kiss for me will come the next day since Hubby loves to fall asleep while watching TV . Which is ok for me. That way I can be here in peace rofl. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009 to ALL!! Lucy

You are very welcome :) Love that fragrance here too. Reckon I should post a warning... Sweet Arlene came through winter great and started the spring 2 feet tall. 15°F weather a few weeks ago didn't slow her down. (it hammered some of the other early starters) I'm afraid there will be more Sweet Arlene photos coming soon.