Kiss the Earth

Now that I've rejoined the living, friends and colleagues are freely sharing their thoughts about the flower show, much to my amusement. Read these comments and you'll see why ...

The show was "over the top," too full of exotic flowers and landscapes, out of reach for the average home gardener. Not enough practical information offered.
No, the show had too many ordinary plants, like azaleas and rhododendrons, not enough exotic flowers and landscapes.
The show was wonderful. What a disappointment!
The Irish entertainment was fantastic. Not sure how it was - couldn't get close enough to see.
It was crowded. Parking was ridiculously expensive. Food was ridiculously expensive - and lousy.

I went to the show for eight days. Two days of set-up, every day last week, and Saturday with family. I checked out the exhibits, the window boxes, tables and miniatures. I examined the competitive classes, went to the lectures, ate the food and bought from the vendors. I parked in two different garages, in sun and snow.

Yes, parking and food were expensive. Yes, it was crowded. No, I didn't like everything. But if you spent enough time there, you could find, learn or buy just about anything you'd want for your garden.

And no, no, no, you can't please everyone!