Hi Gang & Welcome, Bubble, the suddenly white leaves are what we call variegated, not a problem or an ailment, just part of the plant's genetic makeup. Some Hoyas are all green, while other are green & white, which sometimes revert back to green (sounds like maybe yours might have, since the white leaves appear new to you). It's perfectly normal behavior, not to worry. I have a few Hoyas whose white leaves start out pink, then mature to white, normal for those (sometimes called a 'tricolor'). Your watering regimen sounds OK to me, esp. since you're letting it dry out btwn waterings. Hi Janis, If you're just starting w/ Hoyas, Target's probably fine for the more common (& less expensive) Hoyas. They're probably some of the easiest to start off with. Try reading around this Forum & esp. the FAQs, which can probably answer some basic questions for you. We're always happy to see new Hoya friends, encourage your questions, learning & participation.

Very interesting perspective ... thanks for posting. While we still like fireplaces, I think people gather around their 60" flat screens more than the fireplace though....and chickens? Not so much.... The old house that was here (c. 1790) was only 25x25 with a lean-to on the back, but it did go up to 3 stories once they finished off the attic. And the barn has a hatch for the chickens and nest boxes inside...

Wow! These are all truly helpful, wonderful suggestions! I'm scribbling the names down as fast as I can. It will be a fun weekend of the computer on one side and stacks of rose books on the other. Thank you Sheila for your words of encouragement - Oh I forgot about Heirloom - good call! I wil send pictures ... Amazing list Christopher - was hoping you might have some ideas. Thank you! I saw from some other posts you are not too far geographically. The Terrace is about 10 wide. The rose will go in one far corner and I'll train along the back. I love those Hybrid Musks - Ballerina, Buff Beauty, Katherine and Penelope (if memory serves). They were always very solid, dependable roses for me - I'll check out them out. Orfeo in a tree sounds dazzling! I realize (and accept) that it's going tot take time to get the rose to settle in and perform, which is why I'm eager to get it in this Spring. Yes yes Camaieux!! That must be it Carol! I totally agree it's that grey thing that happens as the flowers decline. Yep - fragrant once bloomer. Thank you all for sharing your thoughts and ideas - cheers!

Best of luck to you. Please post a photo of the house so that we can comment.