checking in

[Dollythehun]

Hello, all!

Where to start. First, I was busy, then there was the septic system, which a rainy spring didn't help. Then there was the washer and dryer and the painter from hell. I spent most of the spring with my panties in a bunch and neglecting my orchids, and the OB.

After vicariously following the OB via another member, I decided I probably should let you know I'm live and still attempting to grow.

No one went out side this year, except the cymbs. (Repainting has taken awhile). I think between the painting and the rain, we've sat on our beautiful deck twice. Then there's the greenhouse window that needs replacing $$$$. And the giant maple that needs removal...buying orchids is on the back burner.

Then there's the orchids. I haven't done anything different but, I've pitched quite a few dendrobiums. Bacterial, fungal, IDK, but, I didn't like them well enough to fight it. My oncidiums and zygos are blooming and growing but, the foliage looks like crud, and its depressing.

I've been so careful as a grower. Sigh. I think I'm just going back to basics. Anyway, I've kind of missed you all (except the swearing and insulting part lately, which again, I heard about vicariously). I've lost confidence in my ability to grow or give advice.

Dolly

And, now its canning season...

[Subrosa]

Good to know you're still around!

[Dollythehun]

Thanks Subrosa. It's good to be missed.

[fishmom]

Dolly, don't doubt yourself. You have lots of experience and good advice to give, even if it is not always in agreement with what comes from someone else. I always welcome your posts!

[Roberta]

So glad to see you back! (You did manage the occasional post, but I figured you were mostly otherwise occupied)

[camille1585]

Nice to have you back!! I was actually thinking about sending you a PM to see how you were doing, I did miss you.

Life does get in the way for nearly everyone at some point or another (or multiple points), but it's good that you still come back to the orchids. I actually neglected my collection for 2-3 years, back when I was doing my PhD and just didn't have the time and energy for the plants. I lost most of them in that period, but slowly rebuilt the collection since then.

[Dollythehun]

Thank you. And thanks Fishmom. 😃

[Mountaineer370]

Dolly, you have been greatly missed around here! I'm sure many if not most of us can relate to how everyday life issues of family, work, school, home, health, etc. all seem to occasionally get in the way of our hobbies. Things come up that need attending to and take a lot of our time, or money needs to be spent on essentials and not the fun stuff. So the orchids and the Orchid Board sometimes have to get put on the back burner.

Just know that your name is a welcome sight here anytime that you are able to post.

[rbarata]

Hello Carol

I've thought before where you were...Thought something happened. I'm glad you've show up, hopefully for good.

I have been here but not participating that much, just checking in and give some advise, most of them are "Post some photos, please".

Welcome again

[Dollythehun]

Checking the OB used to be the way I started my day. I've gotten away from that, it had become a "distracting" habit. And I've been despondent over my failures lately. Like you, I think others might have more to contribute than myself. But, I plan on checking in more often.