Plant Swap

Daniel and I went to a plant swap yesterday. We started attending these events back in 2000 and try to go to at least one each year, just to see friends mainly. It is so much fun. Arranged off the Pacific Northwest Exchange forum at Gardenweb, most folks make prearranged trades and then bring extras to swap on the spot. We always end up with a big 'free pile' at the end that everyone sorts thru for goodies they can use. Potluck food is brought along as well, and has always been fantastic. I had nothing to take but some leftover irises and a few dahlia tubers, but came home with the car packed full.

I forgot the camera so no pics of Mark and Lanelle's beautiful garden. It has grown so much since the last swap held there 3 years ago. Got to see some old friends (missed you Doris!) and made some new ones. Our dear friend Kellie loaded us up with seemingly endless pots of vine maples, among the other treasures to be had. I am most excited about the 3 native dogwoods we managed to come home with. It will be great to get those in the mix of trees around here, as we were disappointed that none were to be found growing wild. Here's a shot of the booty. We'll be doing alot of planting today.



There's just one thing about the day that could have been better - traffic. Note to self: next time there's a swap at the same time as the Puyallup Fair and in teh same general area just beg off for another day. Dinner at Volaré later that night with Joey and terry was also a treat. Good food, good friends - all in all a great way to celebrate my b-day.