Grrr Deer!!!

Last night deer ate all the buds on my roses that were just about ready to open. I knew it was going to happen but there isn't a whole lot I can do about it. But I have to say that it really is frustrating. I get so excited to see these gorgeous flowers in full bloom (Mace and I have planted some really unique and pretty ones over the years) yet I rarely get a chance to see more than a few blooms in a season. Its just such a shame. I think this fall we need to just invest the money and refence Mace's yard so that deer can't come in. As it is the fence is only about 5 ft tall with a 4 ft gate... certainly low enough for these summer hooved pests to jump for a tasty rose bud treat. I think my roses must taste better than Polly's because her's aren't fenced in at all and the deer never pester them. So not fair. But at least I have my other flowers in bloom right now to keep me happy. Like the columbine, iris, and peony below here.

In other, somewhat related news, our veggie garden in its entirety is now planted, including our giant pumpkin plant. Its really starting to take off now that its not root bound in a pot and getting plenty of love and attention. I'm trying to decide what to name it this year. Maybe George.... don't ask me why. Last year's pumpkin was terrific and really tipped the scales at 272 lbs but I want to grow an even bigger one. We have about a months head start from last year so we should have a few more weeks of growing time as long as we stop having anymore super cold nights. I'm hoping for at least 300 lbs and no cracking. The state record is just over 500 lbs so I figure within a few years we might know enough to do the same or better. Again I plan on making some fantastic design and carving it for all the little tricker treaters to see when they come to Mace's house. Polly is also growing a pumpkin this year but unfortunately she is way behind the power curve. She couldn't get a seed to germinate until this week. I'm praying that hers catches up and she can have just as much fun with this project as we all did last year.