Spring into Summer 2014...

[mitch777]

I know, I know, Spring isn't technically here yet but it felt like it today for the first time this year. Sunny and in the mid 60's! Yay!!! 

Rain tomorrow and snow flurries on Thursday with low temps back into the teens. 

What a lonnnnng winter. Wishing it a fond kick in the butt farewell!

[hope_for_a_cure]

Are the daffodils pushing up through the ground in your area yet? 

[Jeff G]

YAY for spring ( almost ) . I was able to get out and do a little gardening today and it felt greeeat .

[mitch777]

Are the daffodils pushing up through the ground in your area yet?

lol. I wouldn't know. We still have snow covering most of the ground but much of it melted today. I think after tomorrows rain we will see the lawn for the first time in months.

[mitch777]

YAY for spring ( almost ) . I was able to get out and do a little gardening today and it felt greeeat .

I did too although I was pruning while standing in the snow. I couldn't help myself. lol.

[BT65]

Yesterday it was in the 50's.  Tonight, winter storm warning.  5-8" forecasted right now.  So, so sick of winter!

[Jeff G]

Its 78 here right now and I'm loving it . Tomorrow night its back down to 28 but that is common here this time of year .

[mitch777]

Yesterday it was in the 50's.  Tonight, winter storm warning.  5-8" forecasted right now.  So, so sick of winter!

Oh no!!! I heard from my sister a few days ago in Minnesota and she said they still have feet of snow. I feel for you Betty. Now get back on your walker and leave the shoveling to someone else Wonderwoman!

ps- I'm headed outside to soak in what's left of the day.

[WillyWump]

It was 84 here today in Gods country.

[mitch777]

It was 84 here today in Gods country.

I guess I'm in hell then. 

[buginme2]

It was 84 here today in Gods country.

Ugh. That sounds nice.  Today was a rare sunny almost spring day.  I was at the gym earlier and it seemed that everyone had a spring in their step.  Walking home it seemed like everyone was wearing shorts and just happy the sun had finally come out.

It was a balmy 55 degrees. 

Back to rain tomorrow..the ten day forecast shows rain mostly.  It could be worse...could be snow.  I'm tired of winter.   But, I'm heading out of town this week to a sunny paradise..it's the only way to survive in rain land.

[wolfter]

It was so nice yesterday and today.  I think this has been the longest I've ever went without riding my bikes. 

depending on the channel you watch, we might also get hit with a bunch more snow starting tonight.

[tednlou2]

It got up to 77 here today.  You could get a sunburn today.  But, cold is back tomorrow and wind chills in single digits.  Oh, and snow showers.  But, it is suppose to warm back up by the weekend.  All the spring bulbs are coming up now.  The hyacinth were first, but now the tulips have caught up.

[Theyer]

London is bathed in Sun and has been for a few days. I completely overdid it on Sunday and am paying for it now.

[BT65]

Yesterday we got 5" of snow, and the temp dropped to 3F overnight.  That was without the wind chill. 

I went to Kroger and don't have a garage, so had to clean off the car.  The stuff was frozen, and I had to use the snow brush like a hammer, to get through it and get it off my car. 

WHEN IS IT GOING TO BE SPRING?  The weatherman said he believes it's going to be a cooler summer than normal with all the ice on the great lakes.

[hope_for_a_cure]

We will drop into the upper 20s here tonight.  March living up to its true nature. We have had so many blooms come out during the past week.  The Bradford Pear trees are popping with blossoms and of course the Forsythia is going crazy. 

[Theyer]

Yesterday we got 5" of snow, and the temp dropped to 3F overnight.  That was without the wind chill. 

I went to Kroger and don't have a garage, so had to clean off the car.  The stuff was frozen, and I had to use the snow brush like a hammer, to get through it and get it off my car. 

WHEN IS IT GOING TO BE SPRING?  The weatherman said he believes it's going to be a cooler summer than normal with all the ice on the great lakes.

I don,t know where to begin.

Why don,t you just go clime Everest know you have some time off work coz you broke your hip.

[hope_for_a_cure]

Today we got a taste of the 30s again with rain...uuugh!   Friday will be the day...72°F (22°C), sunshine, and morning coffee on the porch with my kitties. 

[Miss Philicia]

PLEASE NOTE: DC Cherry blossoms usually have a "peak" bloom date of April 4. Last month they predicted it would be delayed until the 9th this year. They just updated it to the 13th.

Also, it's a lesser known fact that 15 years after Japan donated trees to DC they also did the same to Philadelphia's Fairmont Park (the largest landscaped urban park in the world -- sorry, Wumpy) and our "peak" bloom is usually 10-14 days after DC so I guess we're looking at the last day of April.

[hope_for_a_cure]

PLEASE NOTE: DC Cherry blossoms usually have a "peak" bloom date of April 4. Last month they predicted it would be delayed until the 9th this year. They just updated it to the 13th.

Also, it's a lesser known fact that 15 years after Japan donated trees to DC they also did the same to Philadelphia's Fairmont Park (the largest landscaped urban park in the world -- sorry, Wumpy) and our "peak" bloom is usually 10-14 days after DC so I guess we're looking at the last day of April.

When I worked on K Street (DC) we would walk down during our lunch break to see them.  Driving would not be possible unless you have several hours to deal with the traffic.  West River Drive in (Phila) or even a drive through Kenwood (Bethesda, MD) will give you a good dose of beautiful cherry blossoms and you don't have to deal with all the 'tour-ons'. 

[BT65]

I don,t know where to begin.

Why don,t you just go clime Everest know you have some time off work coz you broke your hip.

I'm actually working somewhere else now.  I facilitate a women's group, and arrange speakers (doctors, drug reps since they provide dinner), plan outings, etc.      Myself and an old friend will also be forming an activism group in the future, after he gets his hips replaced (what is it with everyone's bones).

[WillyWump]

Weeeee! Here we go....

[hope_for_a_cure]

95!!!  Its summmmmmmmmmer  !!!

[WillyWump]

95!!!  Its summmmmmmmmmer  !!!

BREAK OUT THE CORONAS!

[Theyer]

BROKEN INTO THE MID 50,s but very sunny in London today , can get away with just a tee shirt and jumper. The heady freedom off it all . The best bit about not living in constant rain ,February, is that the dog does not have to have a shower after each mud splattered walk.

[Miss Philicia]

Weeeee! Here we go....

95F is too hot, not just for late March but for any day.

[Theyer]

I was wrong today we soared into the mid sixties and it was bliss , so good to see my lypo tummy on no arse chopstick legs reflected in shop windows , time to head for the Orkney,s and quickly Tonto.

[tednlou2]

Made it to 80 here today.  And, it was a beautiful day-- barely a cloud.  But, around 7pm, we got thunder and lightning with some rain.  And, the Today Show was here LIVE this morning, reporting on Louisville being ranked worst city for allergies.

[mitch777]

So, I bought these at BJ's of all places. I couldn't resist. 

[tednlou2]

Mark,

You seem to know a lot about plants.  Our tulips did not come back very well this year.  I've always heard you really need to plant new bulbs, especially tulips, every fall to insure a good display.  Tulips need a lot of phosphorous or something to continue to do well.  I noticed only the yellow came back, which makes me think the other colors need more food to come back.  Otherwise, why only the yellow coming back. 

[Miss Philicia]

Ted, we used to dig our bulbs up annually and store them in basement, then replant them.

link

[Theyer]

Mark,

You seem to know a lot about plants.  Our tulips did not come back very well this year.  I've always heard you really need to plant new bulbs, especially tulips, every fall to insure a good display.  Tulips need a lot of phosphorous or something to continue to do well.  I noticed only the yellow came back, which makes me think the other colors need more food to come back.  Otherwise, why only the yellow coming back.

Only if you believe the people who sell Tulip bulbs.

[Theyer]

Ted, we used to dig our bulbs up annually and store them in basement, then replant them.

link

Ditto

Smaller bulbs can be left dug up the grown clumps separated. Lots off work saved if bulbs planted in containers.

[Jeff G]

I have been spending a fortune every spring replacing plants in my containers and pots outside ... I have huge pots . Today I will finish up the task of planting things in them that will come back next year ... I'm using hosta and native southern woodland ferns and Autumn ferns as well as hydrangea . A big showy pot of hosta will come back and get better every year and then all I have to do is add smaller pots of plants for color every single year . By the end of today my yard will have over a hundred new plants in pots or growing in the ground, its been allot of work but it will done and mostly maintenance free for years to come .   

Edited to add . The squirrels have thrown almost every thing I planted yesterday aside and made a huge mess . Its on now . I will be adding bone meal and red pepper to all my plants today .

[Theyer]

My sister has 6 very large Pots off Hosta,s which for 20 years delight , wise move , plus there are many leaf varieties , Very useful elegant plant.

[Jeff G]

My sister has 6 very large Pots off Hosta,s which for 20 years delight , wise move , plus there are many leaf varieties , Very useful elegant plant.

They are so lush and easy ... one of my favorite backdrops in the garden .

[Miss Philicia]

By the end of today my yard will have over a hundred new plants in pots or growing in the ground, its been allot of work

Gerrrrlllll, you must be super-jacked up today on the synthetic white horse.

[Theyer]

Gerrrrlllll, you must be super-jacked up today on the synthetic white horse.

Well if that is the case lucky him , the Garden benefitted , neighbours the world. A day not wasted.

Off course it could be sheer bloody will power and still the above stands.

What ever way aintnobodiesbiznezzif i do or dont.

As well bought up folk say.

[Jeff G]

Gerrrrlllll, you must be super-jacked up today on the synthetic white horse.

This thread is for people who can feel and express joy for other peoples interest and may not be the right fit for you . Its really our fault for not making this clear from the start so don't despair .

[WillyWump]

This thread is for people who can feel and express joy for other peoples interest .

Look what I made!

[Jeff G]

Look what I made!

Excellent point . Its not always easy to express joy .

[Theyer]

Look what I made!

 I have an interest in Naieve /folk Art . It has a certain charm.

But mostly I like unfettered enthusiasn therefore the piece should never be divorced from it,s title.

Look what I made !---------pure joy.

[wolfter]

The flower garden that I didn't even know I had already bloomed and died.     They bloomed for one day before the snow storm killed them.  I didn't even get to take a picture and now I'll have to wait another year to find out what kind they are.

The Lily garden might actually be too full.  No flowers yet, but lots of greenery. 

[zach]

today i gardened! in our zone, it always worked to put the spring annuals out on easter. crawled around the mostly, must look the fool to passerby. but i did it, and got it done. now i can barely stand. planted the annual beds in front, a large elephant ear at the end of one bed of impatiens. put out all of grannies bird seed feeders, and hummingbird nectar, and and suet blocks. the dogwoods are in full bloom. the cherries had their show last couple weeks. the daffodils over my dogs grave are fading. all the azaleas are blooming. forsythia everywhere. this old bungalow may be decaying, but i'll spruce it up my last season here, just for my grannies memory. its a cute place really

in the backyard, i have had some cut stumps of white oak i cut down years ago, air drying for woodworking. i inoculated them about three years ago with turkey shelf mushroom spores. today i noticed the first flush of shelves covering some of them. the mushroom is inedible, but has a strange biological way of staining its territory black, blue, purple, violet, and each growth stays in its own area. it creates wild markings on the wood, can't wait to see the figuring.

losing the ability to walk normally, temporary hopefully i recover more mobility, has made me remember the things i used to do more. if i have my arms and hands, i can still work wood. i can still garden, may have to change some techniques. maybe ms p is right, i should be an industrious hillbilly and grow gourmet mushrooms for profit and not just pleasure

this place has been good to my family. finally selling it will be a little heartbreak. four generations raised here, and this is the house granny raised so many of the cousins at the same time, she did it alone. heathens and hellions. selling this house, cashing out bonds my grandfather set up for me still in the womb. it all makes getting a place possible. and paw did it all when i was just a baby. its kind of heavy thinking how much i owe my grandparents.

[Miss Philicia]

I can look out my window and see three trees amongst the concrete, bricks and asphalt.

[mitch777]

Mark,

You seem to know a lot about plants.  Our tulips did not come back very well this year.  I've always heard you really need to plant new bulbs, especially tulips, every fall to insure a good display.  Tulips need a lot of phosphorous or something to continue to do well.  I noticed only the yellow came back, which makes me think the other colors need more food to come back.  Otherwise, why only the yellow coming back.

I think we talked about tulips in last years spring/summer thread. Summary from what I can recall:
I don't grow them even though they are beautiful. Voles! And yes, they do take effort. I've heard that digging them up as referred to by Miss P. but there is no way I'm doing that for a week or two of blooms. Also remember Mecch talking about them I think the perfect mix of soil conditions might make life easier but alas I don't live in or near the Alps.

I have been spending a fortune every spring replacing plants in my containers and pots outside ... I have huge pots . Today I will finish up the task of planting things in them that will come back next year ... I'm using hosta and native southern woodland ferns and Autumn ferns as well as hydrangea . A big showy pot of hosta will come back and get better every year and then all I have to do is add smaller pots of plants for color every single year . By the end of today my yard will have over a hundred new plants in pots or growing in the ground, its been allot of work but it will done and mostly maintenance free for years to come .   

Edited to add . The squirrels have thrown almost every thing I planted yesterday aside and made a huge mess . Its on now . I will be adding bone meal and red pepper to all my plants today .

Good move! Perennials are cheaper in the long run. I think I spend about $25 a year on annuals for some splashes of constant color. Never had a squirrel problem here. Will this be like Caddy Shack?

today i gardened! in our zone, it always worked to put the spring annuals out on easter. crawled around the mostly, must look the fool to passerby. but i did it, and got it done. now i can barely stand. planted the annual beds in front, a large elephant ear at the end of one bed of impatiens. put out all of grannies bird seed feeders, and hummingbird nectar, and and suet blocks. the dogwoods are in full bloom. the cherries had their show last couple weeks. the daffodils over my dogs grave are fading. all the azaleas are blooming. forsythia everywhere. this old bungalow may be decaying, but i'll spruce it up my last season here, just for my grannies memory. its a cute place really

in the backyard, i have had some cut stumps of white oak i cut down years ago, air drying for woodworking. i inoculated them about three years ago with turkey shelf mushroom spores. today i noticed the first flush of shelves covering some of them. the mushroom is inedible, but has a strange biological way of staining its territory black, blue, purple, violet, and each growth stays in its own area. it creates wild markings on the wood, can't wait to see the figuring.

losing the ability to walk normally, temporary hopefully i recover more mobility, has made me remember the things i used to do more. if i have my arms and hands, i can still work wood. i can still garden, may have to change some techniques. maybe ms p is right, i should be an industrious hillbilly and grow gourmet mushrooms for profit and not just pleasure

this place has been good to my family. finally selling it will be a little heartbreak. four generations raised here, and this is the house granny raised so many of the cousins at the same time, she did it alone. heathens and hellions. selling this house, cashing out bonds my grandfather set up for me still in the womb. it all makes getting a place possible. and paw did it all when i was just a baby. its kind of heavy thinking how much i owe my grandparents.

I can't believe you are out there doing this after what you just went through! Hats off! Must be hard to let go of your grandparents property.

After an extra long winter here I jumped into applying mulch with too much gusto. My back has been a mess for over a week. The weather here has been so nice and I feel helpless to do more than pick up a few twigs. I hear you loud and clear about your wanting to exceed your limitations.

The mushroom stuff sounds fascinating.

The flower garden that I didn't even know I had already bloomed and died.     They bloomed for one day before the snow storm killed them.  I didn't even get to take a picture and now I'll have to wait another year to find out what kind they are.

The Lily garden might actually be too full.  No flowers yet, but lots of greenery. 

Greg,
No, the lily garden is not too full. Sit tight and wait till July to enjoy the blooms.

I can look out my window and see three trees amongst the concrete, bricks and asphalt.

How about putting two potted plants on your steps? You could wear gloves during the process to keep your manicured nails clean my dear and you will enjoy them from now til the first frost. That's what city folk do to beautify the neighborhood.

Look what I made!

Very nice. lol.

[Jeff G]

I put pepper and bone meal around and in my plants and nothing was touched last night . The squirrels dig in my planters every single morning the whole 6 years I have been living here ... but this seemed to work . 

[WillyWump]

I put pepper and bone meal around and in my plants and nothing was touched last night . The squirrels dig in my planters every single morning the whole 6 years I have been living here ... but this seemed to work .

I use bird shot in my squirrels asses. It seems to work.

I do however have a couple squirrels that have taken up residence in my attic. They can chew through wiring so I need to evict them soon. But its a pain in the ass to get them out.

OH PS: Tonight I will be absent as I will be attending the 70th annual Texas Cavaliers River Parade (part of the 18 day Fiesta celebration) on the world famous San Antonio River Walk! This Isnt some cheesy "Mummy Parade" or whatever they do in Philly, THIS IS THE REAL DEAL PEOPLE!

[Theyer]

I use bird shot in my squirrels asses. It seems to work.

I do however have a couple squirrels that have taken up residence in my attic. They can chew through wiring so I need to evict them soon. But its a pain in the ass to get them out.

There is evidence off fairness contained with in .^^^^^^

[Theyer]

http://cavaliers.zenfolio.com/p124812270/h210159bc#h210159bc

My favourite pic from the not at all camp as a row off Tents Day off celebration web site, which my thanks Mr Wump it has truly cheered and I have sent it to many off my friends.

Is it not full off Joy , its my new screen saver.

[Miss Philicia]

Tonight I will be absent as I will be attending the 70th annual Texas Cavaliers River Parade (part of the 18 day Fiesta celebration) on the world famous San Antonio River Walk! This Isnt some cheesy "Mummy Parade" or whatever they do in Philly, THIS IS THE REAL DEAL PEOPLE!

Looks like one of those "whites only" organizations.

[Jeff G]

How did they get that many concierges with the same uniform to march in the parade ? Its a marvel of planning I say . 

[Theyer]

I feel what with my blessing and the probability that the real Military where displaying there presence Mr Wump I hope is happy doing war work and being the cause off R/R to a Gallant young Man or inposing elder off steel.

[Jeff G]

Looks like those first 3 guys on the float the fatty triplets been battling at out it the dinner table and winning .

[WillyWump]

Looks like those first 3 guys on the float the fatty triplets been battling at out it the dinner table and winning .

One of the floats was listing pretty badly. That was probably the one. We are not even sure they made it all the way down the river.

[wolfter]

OK you fine flower knowledge folk.  I planted my first ever bulbs last summer to honor Miss Lily.  I invited family and friends to contribute and I think we may have planted too many.  If it wasn't for the bed border, I'd think these were just weeds which is why Bill prohibited me from ever using trimmers.   I still contend that exotic grass is just weeds...but anyways.

Why don't I have any lilies on these weeds?

[Theyer]

Greg no no no Grasses are my favourite , One off the joys off Orkney for me are the many varieties off Grasses.

[Jeff G]

OK you fine flower knowledge folk.  I planted my first ever bulbs last summer to honor Miss Lily.  I invited family and friends to contribute and I think we may have planted too many.  If it wasn't for the bed border, I'd think these were just weeds which is why Bill prohibited me from ever using trimmers.   I still contend that exotic grass is just weeds...but anyways.

Why don't I have any lilies on these weeds?

I cant name it but if its what I think it is it blooms later in the season .

[mitch777]

OK you fine flower knowledge folk.  I planted my first ever bulbs last summer to honor Miss Lily.  I invited family and friends to contribute and I think we may have planted too many.  If it wasn't for the bed border, I'd think these were just weeds which is why Bill prohibited me from ever using trimmers.   I still contend that exotic grass is just weeds...but anyways.

Why don't I have any lilies on these weeds?

Those are Day Lilies. (they don't have bulbs) Most bloom in July. If you planted different varieties in that patch you will most likely find that the blooming times will overlap a bit. A few varieties will bloom more continuously but with most it's a 3-5 week bloom bang for the buck. The flowers are edible. 

[Dan0]

In case you were all getting nostalgic for Winter......this is what I encountered through the 'pass' on my way to southern Oregon two days ago. Almost May and it's STILL HERE!

[buginme2]

In case you were all getting nostalgic for Winter......this is what I encountered through the 'pass' on my way to southern Oregon two days ago. Almost May and it's STILL HERE!

Welcome to the Pacific Northwest.  Summer doesn't start until July 5th (it always rains on the 4th). 

Spring...depends on the day. 

However, they state it may reach 80 degrees here on Thursday!!!! Lets see...there are many years where it never gets up to 80.  So we may be off to a good start!

[mitch777]

Spring has finally sprung here but I over did it spreading mulch a few weeks ago and put my back out. Thought it might only be a week or so delay before I could get moving again but alas it was not the case. Frustrating!! Time is running out to get things done.

Luckily, a cute hard working employee has helped out a bit. He is only 18 years old but has manners and a work ethic that is a rare find these days.

No plant deaths after this long winter except for a patch of forget-me-nots that the rodents ate. I will try to remember them.   

[tednlou2]

Spring has finally sprung here but I over did it spreading mulch a few weeks ago and put my back out. Thought it might only be a week or so delay before I could get moving again but alas it was not the case. Frustrating!! Time is running out to get things done.

Luckily, a cute hard working employee has helped out a bit. He is only 18 years old but has manners and a work ethic that is a rare find these days.

No plant deaths after this long winter except for a patch of forget-me-nots that the rodents ate. I will try to remember them. 

We had a hot neighbor boy of about 18 come over and ask us on 3 occasions whether we had any work for him to do.  When he changed his swim trunks in the backyard for us to see (he was completely naked), we realized the "work" he was talking about was something different.  Missed opportunity.  There was no doubt he did that on purpose.

Anyway, all our plants are looking good.  This time of year is when everything is all nice and green.  We did have some die.  Those came from Lowes and they have a year warranty on plants-- even if you don't water them apparently.  So, we will return them.  We did water them, btw.  One of our Cherry Laurels has extensive winter burn.  I hope it pulls through.  I've read you can wrap them with burlap in late fall, to help prevent that.

[Jeff G]

We had a hot neighbor boy of about 18 come over and ask us on 3 occasions whether we had any work for him to do.  When he changed his swim trunks in the backyard for us to see (he was completely naked), we realized the "work" he was talking about was something different.  Missed opportunity.  There was no doubt he did that on purpose.

Anyway, all our plants are looking good.  This time of year is when everything is all nice and green.  We did have some die.  Those came from Lowes and they have a year warranty on plants-- even if you don't water them apparently.  So, we will return them.  We did water them, btw.  One of our Cherry Laurels has extensive winter burn.  I hope it pulls through.  I've read you can wrap them with burlap in late fall, to help prevent that.

Please post some pics . The pics you and Mitch posted was the motivation for me to finish up or get started on my landscaping ... so you guys should do the right thing and chip in for all the money you guys are responsible for making me spend . 

You both are lawn and garden shamers and should pay up .

[mitch777]

So Ted, how much are you sending? 

[Miss Philicia]

Suck it up, bitches: Spring in the city

No fuss, no muss -- all my gardening is done for me by professionals

[mitch777]

Suck it up, bitches: Spring in the city

No fuss, no muss -- all my gardening is done for me by professionals

But you don't get to be creative, get dirty, and bend your body into unusual positions. 

[Jeff G]

The only green thing Miss P cultivates is a shade of envy .

[Jeff G]

So Ted, how much are you sending? 

What you mean how much ? I want ALL my money back bitches .

[mitch777]

What you mean how much ? I want ALL my money back bitches .

I'll try my best to match whatever Ted sends. OK?

[Miss Philicia]

But you don't get to be creative, get dirty, and bend your body into unusual positions. 

That is because the last time I gardened the lipoatrophy in my knees was so bad I had to use this padded thing just to weed, much less do any gardening. And that was over a decade ago.

I APOLOGIZE IF MY ADVANCED HIV NON-AIDS IS MOAR ADVANCED THAN YOURS

If you're out there gardening, your HIV ain't advanced enough.

The only green thing Miss P cultivates is a shade of envy .

The only green envy there's gonna be 'round these parts is when I'm out eating snails with ramps at South Philly Tap Room tonight with my out-of-town guest.

[tednlou2]

I'll try my best to match whatever Ted sends. OK?

I have a 10% off coupon to Lowes I can send.  I have some seed I can send.  I mean, seeds. 

[Jeff G]

I have some seed I can send. 

Sounds like a long shot .

[Theyer]

If you're out there gardening, your HIV ain't advanced enough.

Gardening for all, evan with tubes going in to every orifice , one can garden. Off late there has been a proliferation off small Garden companies . Set up by posh boys who hate the city and remember fondly Old Jacob who tended Mommy and Daddy,s arces all through his childhood. There will be him and Zippo an Australian he met on his Gap year round the world trip and A1 a lad actually born in London related in some nether defined way to Mrs C the lady who 'does' at his families London House.

10 minutes after A1 turns up the pace really picks up , and for an hour and a half torso,s ripple and gleam with sweat.Then suddenly they  run out off steam , so you raise from the recliner from which you have been issuing instructions and make huge strong cups off tea , hob nob biscuits are consumed AI rolls and shares a spliff. instructions are given for more gardening.You leave to answer the phone returning to find all three affected by summer pollens as they are all sniffing and wiping there noses. Within 10 minutes activity is at full speed again and one settles back into the recliner to supervise and therefore garden.

 

[Jeff G]

Gardening for all, evan with tubes going in to every orifice , one can garden. Off late there has been a proliferation off small Garden companies . Set up by posh boys who hate the city and remember fondly Old Jacob who tended Mommy and Daddy,s arces all through his childhood. There will be him and Zippo an Australian he met on his Gap year round the world trip and A1 a lad actually born in London related in some nether defined way to Mrs C the lady who 'does' at his families London House.

10 minutes after A1 turns up the pace really picks up , and for an hour and a half torso,s ripple and gleam with sweat.Then suddenly they  run out off steam , so you raise from the recliner from which you have been issuing instructions and make huge strong cups off tea , hob nob biscuits are consumed AI rolls and shares a spliff. instructions are given for more gardening.You leave to answer the phone returning to find all three affected by summer pollens as they are all sniffing and wiping there noses. Within 10 minutes activity is at full speed again and one settles back into the recliner to supervise and therefore garden.

 

Miss P might feel better if he got some exercise like gardening can provide so I agree .

[zach]

my garden is advanced and flourishing

my hiv/aidsey is less advanced of late, and getting its ass beaten down

this morning, i planted 6 tomatoes, 6 squash/zuch, and 6 pepper plants

than i called in my refills for 11 meds

6+6+6+11=29

cribbage! nobbing jack and taking it to the street

[Jeff G]

my garden is advanced and flourishing

my hiv/aidsey is less advanced of late, and getting its ass beaten down

this morning, i planted 6 tomatoes, 6 squash/zuch, and 6 pepper plants

than i called in my refills for 11 meds

6+6+6+11=29

cribbage! nobbing jack and taking it to the street

According to Miss P's theory you may want to test again as you may not have aids if you can do all that . 

[zach]

oh oh oh, if i test again, can i ask questions in AM I?!?!

will it help if i study? i need a tudor, or a tutor, probably both.

 

[Jeff G]

oh oh oh, if i test again, can i ask questions in AM I?!?!

will it help if i study? i need a tudor, or a tutor, probably both.

 

You know too much now about aids for us to let you go ... the only way out of our cult now is if there is a cure or some of dat Jim Jones bitter kool-aids drink .

You are past the AM I INFESTED forum and heading straight to the LTS forum with maybe a few stops in mental health along the way .

[mitch777]

Had a great day in the garden today. Sunny and warm. My back gave me a bit of trouble but I pursued! It loosened up as the day went on and at least I felt I got something accomplished. Good day. 

[Theyer]

I had the opposite day Mitch, I have to get these sleep a thon days investigated .
continued in LTS.

[mitch777]

Todays purchase. Spinach, fennel, swiss chard, lettuce, peppers (cubanelles and Jalapenos), parsley, basil, some flowers for the pots, and some exotic sunflower seeds.  Just a few more goodies and mission accomplished. 

[mitch777]

Just hate when this happens! 



Spring is slow in coming but the creeping phlox are at least putting on a show. 

[bocker3]

91 here today!  Spent some time in the pool.........  Summer has arrived

M

[mitch777]

91 here today!  Spent some time in the pool.........  Summer has arrived

M

Wow. ^ It was a dreary day with drizzle and light rain here. High was probably around 60 degrees. Next week looks to be warmer. Can't wait!!

[BT65]

91 here today!  Spent some time in the pool.........  Summer has arrived

M

It was 91F yesterday here also!  Though I did not spend time in the pool because: a) I have no pool and the community pools are not open yet (though I would not swim in them because of all the yucky people who do) and b) I ran ladies in my group around. 

I need to put the air conditioner in my window soon.  Though it looks to cool down next week.

[bocker3]

I need to put the air conditioner in my window soon.  Though it looks to cool down next week.

The big downside of summer -- I turned on our A/C last night, for the first time this season.  Between that and the pool pump, our electrical bills more than triples in the summer............  I hate being hot at night though, so I crank up that A/C after 10 pm (much to Sid's constant annoyance)

M

[Dan0]

The weather in Portland is great....a bit 'soggy' but otherwise perfect. No intense heat, no extreme cold. The one added bonus, we get new pets! Not you're run of the mill aquarium snails....we're talking antennae moving, slime-dragging, 'I own you!' Big #%€¥£ snails. Now, how he/she gets on the windshield, I don't have a clue. Jump??

If they jump....I'm moving:

[Jmarksto]

Dan;  That "soggy" is what we call liquid sunshine, and the snails are nothing - wait till you see the banana slugs!

[Dan0]

After it was realized that it was just meandering around the car with so set goal of 'jumping off', we named it Felicia and liberated her in a nice flora-filled oasis at Home Depot.  *BYE FELICIA!!!*

Banana Slugs???  It gets worse??  OH* DEAR* GOD*!!  I just Googled a picture of the heinous creatures.  This is not going to be good.  I couldn't even handle worms when we went fishing.  I've traded Skunks and Possums for animated phlegm. I can't wait to see what you throw at me for a Portland Winter!

The Google page even contained some 'Banana Slug' shaped cookies and a Banana Slug dragon in a Chinese New Year parade.  One man's trash is another man's date!

[mitch777]

The weather in Portland is great....a bit 'soggy' but otherwise perfect. No intense heat, no extreme cold. The one added bonus, we get new pets! Not you're run of the mill aquarium snails....we're talking antennae moving, slime-dragging, 'I own you!' Big #%€¥£ snails. Now, how he/she gets on the windshield, I don't have a clue. Jump??

If they jump....I'm moving:

lol. It looks like a flying snail.

I'm afraid to ask how big the banana slugs get. Connecticut slugs are about an inch or two in length.

[mitch777]

Yikes! I just googled it! Wonder if Miss P. has a recipe? Looks like enough to feed a whole family.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banana_slug

[Jeff G]

Nothing like stepping on a big fat slug while barefoot and feel it squeeze and ooze between the toes ... its a retching moment .

[Theyer]

Tuesday 11 am London. Shaking dog on lap due to thunder clap during hail storm .

[wolfter]

Our lake area is going through its annual flooding.  This year is the worst I've remembered for quite a while.  I performed a test.  True story and I have pics.  since we've not been able to mow, everything that feeds on dirt is tall.  I pulled a beautiful flower out the yard and transplanted it to mother's deck rail planter.  It had some white buds coming out and everything.

I showed my aunt Barb this morning and she agreed to water it.  We've kept it alive and when one of my brothers and his wife stopped over, I asked my sister in law about it and she loved it.  It's a freaking weed for gods sake.  at this point i'm keeping it alive and already had the discussion about procreation.  He's a weed and he better not reproce.  I bought a single tray of marigolds that i might get around to actually planting next to my new favorite perenial.

[tednlou2]

Beautiful and spectacular time-lapse of a super cell storm brewing. 

http://www.nbcnews.com/science/weird-science/whoa-spectacular-supercell-storm-takes-shape-time-lapse-video-n109321

[zach]

beautiful spring day
garden, neuropathic pain
no, red ants attack

[Theyer]

I have done 3 lots off Gardening!!

The front hedge is now clipped and very British, the back a vast mound off vegetation some bagged ,lots to do including the removal off some rotted wood decking.

Going for LOw low low maintenance stone rock terracotta with a couple off chairs & table and a reading lay out bit.

My garden has been beautiful but illness then sadness's let it become a disgrace.
Now like the flat it is to be transformed, eventually.
Have decided I preferr living in do up mess than needs work shabby sadness.
So welcome to my flat in everlasting decoration mode.


If that's a recent pic off you Zach your are looking very well and the new hat is beyound measurement better than the last one.

The garden is a  wonderfully mad size going from 6ft to 8 ft wide by33 ft long.

[mecch]

Its May and its hot as August in many European cities. 

[Miss Philicia]

Yesterday they said it would go up to 78F here today and instead we only reached 68F. Next week, however, we'll mostly be +80F if they are correct. Our long-range June forecast shows only two days +85F so we are still running on average below normal.

[mitch777]

Yesterday they said it would go up to 78F here today and instead we only reached 68F. Next week, however, we'll mostly be +80F if they are correct. Our long-range June forecast shows only two days +85F so we are still running on average below normal.

Shush! It will just solidify Pat Sajak's worldly views of climate change.


And Michael, I need to see pictures! As far as Zach's hat, mini said this latest one makes him look older. I can't decide.

[BT65]

Michael, I would love to see pictures of your garden. 

The temps were supposed to drop today to 60F; instead it is 81F right now.  The temp has been going up.  It's already been like 86F here.  I had to use the air because the humidity here is so thick. 

Of course, after that long, long winter we had, I'm not complaining!

[Jeff G]

I would love to see Pics of Michael's garden . He is an excellent photographer so they should be really good . 

[wolfter]

Currently enjoying the severe storms that are moving through.  Surprised we haven't lost power yet.  It was kinda sad seeing my 30 year old truck getting pounded by huge hail stones.  Then I realized that other peoples' new vehicles were also getting it.

OH, and I pulled my weed flower and decided to actually plant my first ever miniature roses.  Immediately was stuck with a damn thorn.  That flower selling lady should have explained that gloves were needed to transplant them.  Now I don't like them anymore and I might not feed the one that butchered me.

[wolfter]

Damn, did we already start a Summer into Autumn thread? 

Like an idiot, I cleaned the entire fence line last summer upon buying this place.  All it did was allow me a direct view to things I didn't want to see.  Everything grew back with a vengeance including the new ivy plants I put in this Spring.  I also didn't realize the entire back fence line is Raspberries.  Not sure which of these are weeds but I'm keeping them all as it gives me a bit of privacy.

[wolfter]

That bottom picture is my proximity to the lake.  That's the yacht club in the background and the big white building is the new micro brewery.  They've done great and the good news is that they bought the property across the street from me.  That's the only other residence on this street. 

The brick building is for the god fearing Catholics who despise all the wicked ways of those visiting the brewery and the yacht club.  Our Lady of Mount Carmel.  They help by keeping all the wickedness away.

 

[mitch777]

Looks pretty private to me Greg. Yes, those are weeds growing on your fence but I can see why you would want to leave them. That's a nice sized yard! I would be going nuts at the garden center spending my wallet dry. lol.

So nice that it's such a short walk to church for you.   

[mitch777]

This really has been the oddest summer weather that I can remember in ages. I doubt we hit 90 degrees more than 4 or 5 days. The 10 day forecast is for highs in the upper 70's to low 80's. Even Miss P's weather guru doubts that most of us will see temps above 92 for the rest of the summer.

Not a good year for my tomatoes but I'm not complaining. I'm hoping for a warmer than usual winter to top it off.

[tednlou2]

They always say you cannot blame one weather event on climate change.  But, there is no doubt it is happening and I think we are actually seeing it.  We've had all these years with weather that is not the norm.

In 2009, we had a very cool summer.  I remember many people weren't going to lakes or pools.  There were days in July that year, that we had to wear jackets.  Then, we had that winter that didn't even feel like winter.  Winter never really came.  Then, we had a very hot summer.  Then, that Polar Vortex winter. 

This summer has been pretty mild and very cloudy and gloomy here.  We just had days in low 70's.  It is hot and muggy today, but suppose to be back around 72 for highs next week.  And, we haven't gotten much rain.  I couldn't remember the last time it rained.  We finally got some and it was 3 inches all at once.  Back to dry again, though and stretches of days with no rain.

[Miss Philicia]

Even Miss P's weather guru doubts that most of us will see temps above 92 for the rest of the summer.

Yeah, I saw that myself on FB this morning. We've only gone above 95F once this year and that was only 96F.  It's not that it's been cold though, just more in the historical norm or a degree or two under that.

But not a single instance of a week-long brutal heatwave.

HOWEVER on a global scale both May and June were the hottest on record, and the 352nd hotter than average month in a row.

[Jeff G]

Its been so nice here Im getting a I love global warming bumper sticker . Not really but it has been so very nice .

[Miss Philicia]

The long rang forecast on accuweather shows us only going over 90F one day from now until the end of August. If that actually holds true it's as if summer has ended two months early.

I'm not complaining though -- 85F daytime highs with 70F nighttime lows I consider perfect weather.

[wolfter]

I definitely am not complaining about our lower than average temps.  Everyday has pretty much been glorious with nice breezes and low temps at night.  The local farmers are benefiting beyond belief.  The corn fields were not only knee high by the 4th of July, they were taller than most men.

I rec'd email notification that my electric bill was ready to view yesterday.  I cringed at the thought.  Totally surprised that my first full month resulted in an average use of about $3.00 daily.  My home is mostly electric including having a well except for having a gas stove and heat in the winter.  I was not at all happy with my gas bill though.  It is $35 and I only used the freaking stove twice.  Each meal cost me over $17.00 to prepare!   

I contacted them to see if perhaps it was an estimated bill or if I need to have someone check for leaks.  Nope, that is the minimum bill even is you use none.  Am seriously considering switching completely over to all electric.

[wolfter]

I'm so in awe and jealous of Betty's landscaping that I almost pretended I accidentally deleted them.   

[BT65]

Lol.  Thanks Greg for doing that.  Although I did not do that; my friend's mother paid for a landscaper for a housewarming present for us.  That was very nice.  Now we have to keep it up. 

[Jeff G]

I think Betty should host a part for the forum .... Betty, its great you got you pics online . I sent them to Ann the other day and she loved them as well .

[BT65]

I think Betty should host a part for the forum .... Betty, its great you got you pics online . I sent them to Ann the other day and she loved them as well .

I'd love to.   Now, if left to me, the pics would still not be up.  Greg told me he would put them up if I e-mailed them to him.  Now Jeff, you're only 12 hours away, and you could pick up Greg on the way here.  If we could only get rid of this raccoon family living under the deck right by the garage.  It's a mama and 3 babies.  They're pretty fucking awful.  I believe we're going to this farm store to get some repellant; if anyone has any ideas, let me know.  My friend said someone told her moth balls are a cheap repellant, but I don't think we're getting that.

[Jeff G]

I'd love to.   Now, if left to me, the pics would still not be up.  Greg told me he would put them up if I e-mailed them to him.  Now Jeff, you're only 12 hours away, and you could pick up Greg on the way here.

LOL . Im also about that far from Greg . When I drove to Iowa and back to get my friends hitched it damn near crippled me you know . You need to come to bama to see you family anyway .

[mitch777]

Just signing in for a moment. Dinner has arrived. Wow Betty! Beautiful! More later...

[initforlife]

Betty, get ya an old red bone coon dog. that way you can listen to the howls of the dog all night.. LOL  try and animal cage trap and then either kill it or have it moved to another area away from your house! I  happen to love the sound of a treeing dog!  caught my last husband by coon hunting with him .. that's a story for another time lol 

[Jeff G]

Im at my friend Tim's house and there is a family of armadillos living under the deck and they are not scared of us at all and will walk right up to us .

[zach]

cook em, seriously, armadillo is good stew

[initforlife]

cook em, seriously, armadillo is good stew

   YUCK!

[wolfter]

Betty, I absolutely love the serene feel of your place.  I've decided to maybe do some flowers.  I know how to heal animals but damned if i know to feed roses. 

[mitch777]

So Betty, you went from having no garden to this! No excuses now for getting those hands dirty. 

What a wonderful setting. It must be nice to have a view of the lake let alone a dock with a boat. Cool!

I'm not sure what to suggest about your raccoons. I thought the deer had been in my veggie garden the past few days. The swiss chard was chomped to bits. Discovered today that the varmint is a darned groundhog. Grrr... we had one hang around a few years ago and it devoured most everything. Let me know if you find a solution. Maybe it would work for groundhogs too?

Anyway, congrats again!

[BT65]

Thanks guys.  M, believe me, my hands have already gotten dirty lol.

The raccoons are gone.  My friend and I went to the farm store down the road and got this stuff called Critter Ridder.  It worked.  And it's nontoxic, so it won't harm other animals.  I don't know if I mentioned this, but there is a black kitty that lives under the deck.  I guess he's been there for a long time, and the lady who lived here fed him regularly.  So we have been continuing to buy his food, feed him etc.  Anyway, the coons were getting his food, so this morning when I fed him, I checked it a couple hours later, and it was not gone.  And I banged on the part of the deck/outside wall, where I knew their nest was and there was no growling or hissing.

When we were spreading the stuff (Critter Ridder) around yesterday, at the end of the deck where the entrance was they were using to get under it, was one of the baby coons.  He would not move.  I shook my cane at him, and my friend finally nudged him with the broom.  He growled and ran away.  I do know different types of super hot peppers make up part of the stuff we used.  I can't remember what else it has in it.  But so far so good, so M, if you're having issues with a critter, i suggest going to a local farm store and finding something specifically for "critters."  I imagine stores like Lowe's etc. would have something similar.  And you can buy stuff on Amazon, but it's about 3 x more expensive than when you get it in the store.

[mitch777]

Thanks Betty, I'll check that critter ridder stuff out. I'm surprised that a cat and a family of raccoons would tolerate each other. I guess those masked bandits will have their way.

It's great to have another member of the Dirty Hands Club! Welcome! 

[Jeff G]

Critter Ridder works well for my squirrel problem but it is a little pricey . One bottle application will do all my flower beds but only last a little over a month . I need to go get more because I am sick of finding all of my mulch kicked out of the flower beds and into my lawn .

[BT65]

Thanks Betty, I'll check that critter ridder stuff out. I'm surprised that a cat and a family of raccoons would tolerate each other. I guess those masked bandits will have their way.

It's great to have another member of the Dirty Hands Club! Welcome! 

M, the kitty stayed away when the raccoons were out.  They totally bullied him and ate his food, and that pissed me off even more.  They're awful animals, though I would not want to torture any of them. 

Jeff, I have not seen an over population of squirrels here, which is strange, especially since at my apartment, which was more urban, it seemed there was a shit ton of them.  Not sure what the difference is.

It is so humid here, it's like 80 out with 97% humidity.  It's supposed to rain and cool down into the lower 70's here.  Which is fine, I like it a bit cooler.  I don't tolerate heat well.

[wolfter]

I realize squirrels are just cute little rodents but I enjoy them.  I regularly put ears of corn out for them and they don't mess with anything so I prefer them to the nasty feral cats. 

[BT65]

I realize squirrels are just cute little rodents but I enjoy them.  I regularly put ears of corn out for them and they don't mess with anything so I prefer them to the nasty feral cats. 

Hey, hey, watch the remarks about the feral kitties lol.  Actually this kitty is beautiful, pure black, medium hair.  And he keeps away the mice.  As for squirrels...I like to watch squirrels, I can always hear them chasing each other when I hear those sharp little shrills.  The only thing is, they like to get on our bird feeder and eat the bird food.  I have noticed, though, a little metal contraption in the front yard hanging from a tree branch, which I will use for putting in corn cobs for the little varmints.

I don't like to see any animal suffer, even raccoons, however much I despise them living under my deck.  But, there are some I wish would live far, far away from me.  The feral kitty is not aggressive or dangerous.  The lady who owned the house prior to us living here is the one who got the cat dependent on being fed, watered etc.  My friend was telling someone that she and I are so codependent, we feed a cat we do not own lol.  I suppose if he (the cat) were not already dependent on being fed, we would not do it.  But how can we refuse? 

On another note, the weather was unusually cool yesterday, and is this morning.  Yesterday the high got to about 58F.  This morning it is 52F.