roobee, I'll send you an email right now. Kelly (Nebraska)

Sounds like fun! My sister did a similar thing when her daughter was 13, but added a sort of mall scavenger hunt to the mix... I wish I could remember what it included! I know there was a mix of finding information, purchasing small items (some specific candy comes to mind), and getting an "autograph" from some specific person, etc.... They may have done it in two 3-teen teams. I should ask her! I know it was a hit! I think she provided a modest amount of cash to get them started. When I was growing up, we typically had "family birthdays," with one "friend party" per childhood. When I was turning 15, I realized that I hadn't yet had a party, so I choose to have a hiking party. My dad took about 8 girls for a day hike (him identifying plants, pointing out specific peaks with the shared binoculars, us tasting things like licorice fern- your basic Pacific Northwest fun!), then back home for hamburgers, with a stop for milkshakes on the way. It was memorable for everyone (it was discussed at our 30 year high school reunion!).

It does make a huge difference if you spray. Not everyone wants to. If you are willing to spray it will be great, if not, look for a Kords red or an old garden red. Usually they are more disease resistant. But ogr's get huge and aren't always repeat bloomers so keep that in mind. Usually spraying is needed for the more modern "better formed" blooms. Old garden reds tend to be sloppy in form but easier to care for. It's a bit of a trade off.

oh socks, that looks like a very touching book! i do love to read, i'm just not quite sure i'm ready for something so emotional. i will certainly keep it in mind, thanks!