@becsbuddy, @artist01, and others. Yes, Becky, all my babies, grown from little plants, and I've taught them to survive outside year-round. Several years ago, maybe 10 or so, I had to stop bringing everyone inside for the winter cold spells. I do some years cover them as needed when it gets into the '30-'20s at night, but not this year. I have a touch of frost damage on my Crown of Thorns and on another tropical plant, but all the rest are in pretty good shape and sending out new blooms now.

Azaleas have begun to flower all over the city. That's one of our prettiest bushes usually in early March. late Feb. Have some just beginning to open in the front yard. Brings happiness...also have a camellia bush fairly full of blooms,. I'll take a picture tomorrow and send it via phone.

I loved your beautiful description of the Oregon Coast you call home, @joyces, what a lovely place to live. Sounds wonderful. your descriptions are so clear. I thought you had much colder winters and snow. But, with the ocean, that changes so much, doesn't it? Sounds like you're in a fairly isolated area with elk and deer walking through the yard. Love it, but what a different life from my city life.

Becky, I do enjoy having the view from my den overlooking the flowers and birds. But, it's time to get it cleaned up and paved, planted properly in a walled, raised planting area along the fenceline. I want to do that in March God willing.

On Monday, I'm taking my first fun outing in years! My neighbor/friend and I are going to Lowes to get her tub/shower grab bars and schedule installation. Then, we're having lunch to celebrate my BDay. Pitiful, isn't it? Not much fun in this life since a couple of years before the stay in hospital for heart failure. Then comes Covid of course, and all the new illnesses and diagnoses. About time for a change! So be it.....

Blessings to all. elizabeth