Hi Dena! Welcome(official like)! It is funny, I noticed most of us are in the same age group, though thankfully we have a few "youngsters" here too! You must plan on attending a swap with us. The next two scheduled swaps a a bit of a hike for you but maybe you can still get to one. I'm glad to know you, congrats on the great "kids" you have raised! Boy, I could use a few pointers, 'nough said!
Kat

Thanks BG,
I am hoping to attend one soon, I had to miss Ricky's because of family problems. My kids didn't have it easy growing up, but to hear them tell it it was the best ever. I believe it made them the people they are now, just look at Paris Hilton, has everything money can buy and doesn't have a clue. Glad to be aboard.
Dena

Dena-so glad you introduced yourself! Welcome. This is a great place to hang out, learn and laugh. I have met some of the most kind, generous and fun loving people on this forum. Our plant swaps are always more than just swaps, they are about friendships, sharing and learning new things. I would not have the variety of plants I have without learning from everyone here. Good luck and again, welcome.
Cindee

Welcome Dena! We are a wild and wacky bunch here. I've learned so much from this group. I've made some wonderful friends and had so much fun at swaps, plant sales and touring each others gardens. You are gonna like it here.
I take it you are a crafty person...I see you over on the Garden Junk forum as well. Glad to meet ya and hope to see you at a swap someday.
Marion

Welcome Dena,

I'm also a newbie to these forums, love them so far. Everyone is so helpful.

Kitiera

Welcome, Dena along with Kitiera. It is so nice to have new peoplw join out madness. Yes, we are absolutely mad, whacko, lonney for gardening. Sometimes I think we live in dirt and grow only when watered. Some of us grow when even neglected. You have every right to be proud of your children. Sounds like you were a major influence in their lives.

One of our mottos around here is "Carpe Car Kete" Grab those car keys and go to where the plants and friends are. I am waiting an invitation from Treefrog, Marion, Kat and others when they do another garden party and they know in advance and it is on a Sat or Sun. Of course for me it would have to be in the fall, winter or early spring. Can't handle the heat. *roflmao*

A word of caution = be careful around Lisa *hug* or she will have you growing all manner of edibles both fruits and veggies. She has corupted almost all of us. I had to tell my hubby that I do not know how that varigated lemon made it into my yard. He laughted and said, Lisa made you do it - I know. He does enjoy the benefits though.

Once again, welcome and we hope to hear more from you. Linda

Welcome!
I know a little about your transition from PA because I moved to Orlando from Baltimore. Definite planting zone shock. I've been back in Orlando for a little over 9 years and learned a lot about Florida gardening from the great people on this forum.
Glad to have you join the group!
Not only are many of us very close to your age (I'm 54) but there's also quite a few with February birthdays. Can we add you to that list too?
Kate