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I didn't mean to, Officer. But you see, I have these gardening friends and they talked me into buying roses...
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![]() It started out as a normal day. I really had no plans to do much of anything, which is a common ailment among those of us who are retired. After all, it was mid February, the worst of winter was surely past, and I ambled around in my cold brown flower gardens taking in all that the sunny 50 degrees had to offer. I spied what surely was a bud on my daffodils, and looking closely I counted eight or ten iris popping up here and there. And oh, my beloved daylilies, they were already reaching their green shoots up to the sun. Tulips, buds on the trees, birds chirping, can spring be far behind?
That was in the morning, and after I gathered up the remains of the Sunday morning paper, I continued to browse through the ads that appeared in full color pages. Next up was the Walmart flyer, it had a few more pages than normal and I caught a glimpse of rosebushes. It had been many years since I had even tried to grow roses, but a rose is a rose and to me it evokes memories of grandmothers and old homeplaces. My first attempt at growing roses was a total disaster. I had growing children, and that involved ball games and swimming lessons, not to mention the fact that most of my yard at one time or another had been a badminton court, a basketball court, a place for practicing tennis, a football field, a spot for attempting back handsprings, a go cart track, and a skateboard ramp had once stood very close to one of those roses that was uselessly attempting survival. I gave up years ago on roses. However, things had changed, and my children were all grown up with lives of their own, so I had plenty of time and space to devote to my garden. I would never have considered roses, but throughout the dreary days of winter I had cultivated some very wonderful friends on Dave's Garden. Many of them grow beautiful roses. And now in mid February, WALMART HAD THEIR FIRST SHIPMENT OF ROSES! I had learned from my DG friends that I should buy bare root roses, and in my ignorance I had to turn to Google to see what that term meant. So after googling roses all winter (lest I be considered totally ignorant in my posts to my friends) I was thinking seriously about attempting another rose garden. Now there they were, only a few miles away. I could already see them in full bloom growing up my brick arches, adajacent to my daylilies, in the farthest reaches of my back corner, along my driveway, in the spot where the recently removed Magnolia had held center stage for 30 years, bordering my deck, and on and on. I would have roses! Off I went to my nearest Walmart store. I was a woman on a mission. I had a plan. I would start with only a few, and go from there. Aha! Jackpot! The newly shipped roses had just been unloaded and were all lined up waiting for me. I had a lot to choose from, but I was in my car and was limited to what would fit. I loaded up on the beauties, reading labels like a pro! Selection made, I headed home, rose bushes resting peacefully in my trunk, on the floor in the back, and also on the floor on the front passenger's side. Music on, green tea in hand, I headed on down the road, just my roses and me. There was little traffic on this 10 mile trek from Walmart to my house. My mind was going a mile a minute, Don Juan would climb up my brick arches. Lady X could go in the south west corner. Camelot near the deck, Mr. Lincoln belonged in the spot left by the Magnolia. I had plans and this was just the beginning. I got about a mile from home, no traffic around me, and was awakened from my visions of gloriously blooming roses by a siren, barely heard over the sound of music that was filling my car. I glanced in the rearview mirror, and to my wondering eyes did appear flashing blue lights. The rose bubble popped! Panic seized me. Where was my license, my registration, proof of insurance? I held my breath, hoping he would go on by but I was the only car on the road. OK, so I pulled over. Flashing blue lights pulled in behind me and suddenly heavy traffic appeared on the road. Trust me, all eyes turned my way. OK, I could handle this, I plastered a quivering smile on my face. Now I rank among those who did not grow very much and in the words of one of those dear DG friends, "OMG, you are Liliputian!" Believe me, that officer who approached my car was anything but Liliputian. He identified himself (as if I didn't already know) as a city police officer and very kindly asked if I knew how fast I was traveling. "No," said I, "please tell me." (Oh gag, what a wimpy reply,) "Well ma'm, you were going 70 in a 55 mph zone. What were you thinking?" I had to lean my head way back in order to see his face, he was that tall. Oh dear, what was I thinking? "Roses," I said. "Roses?" "Yes, sir, roses." I gulped, and he shook his head. Long story short, he needed my license and my insurance card; of course I am not totally ignorant, I do watch TV occasionally, even though I had never been stopped by anybody. Well, there was that time when I was a teenager... Anyway, after what seemed to be a couple of hours but in fact was only a matter of minutes, the giant approached again. "Ma'm," he said, "you have no previous citations, and when I requested information I found that you have not one blemish on your record. I also recognize your address, because I patrol that area. I am very familiar with your house where the flowers grow, and if you don't slow down I won't get to enjoy those roses that you are carrying around with you. I am giving you a warning this time, and I hope you will wait till you get home before you think about your roses. Y'all have a good day now, Ma'm." I simply did not know whether to laugh or to cry: "the house where the flowers grow." Ahhh, what an epitaph! I live in the "house where the flowers grow"! I have not told this story to very many people, but I thought you might understand and keep it secret. Sometime our passion for our gardens takes over our days, our hearts and our lives, but we all need to be more cautious when it overcomes our common sense. But awww gee, that giant of a policeman knows the house where the flowers grow. Y'all have a good day now. 
Thanks to my friend Zuzu for the pictures of the rose and the rose garden, maybe this year I will be able to share my roses with her. All other photographs are from the author's collection.
 | I am a retired high school art and humanities teacher. I grew up in the Appalachian mountains of southeast KY and now I live with my two rescued cats, Jazz and Daisy, in far western KY. I love daylilies and perennials, and thanks to my DG friends this year I am adding roses to my gardens.
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Subject: story by Sharon Brown
Posted by petrrie (from yarrawonga
(Australia)) on March 25, 2008 at 3:07 AM:hi, i am enquiryng about the white trumpet flowers on the bottom of the article by sharon brown , i live in victoria(Australia) and don,t think i have seen these before and i was wondering if some-one could tell me what they are, thanks petrrie ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 25, 2008 at 10:38 AM: Hi Petrrie,
Those flowers are a type of Datura, normally called Moonflower Bush.
There is also a Moonflower vine that has a similar bloom, but this particular one is a bush that I planted from seed.
I am not sure how they would do in Australia.
Hope this helps.
Sharon ...
Subject: Roses
Posted by GEENP (from Ridgeley, WV) on March 24, 2008 at 12:42 PM:I never wanted to grow roses, don't know anything about them, fussy, and I had a patch of ground getting ready for wild flowers But..... Lowes had a whole rack of them marked down to &1.00 that just needed some TLC. I was checking them out and another lady came to look too. I said take what you want because I am taking the rest!!! She walked away, Silly me I bought everything on the rack 18 roses, 3 butterfly bushes, 2 boxwoods, and 3 lilies,
I have an Outback Subaru and it was loaded. These were all 2 year old plants. Checking on things yesterday and everything is budding out. My biggest problem is the japenese beetles. What can I do about them that is organic.
Oh yeah had to start a new bed for wildflowers. ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 2:24 PM: Funny! Sounds like one of my escapades.
I think there is something you can plant with the roses that he beetles like more. Can't remember what it is, but will try to find an answer. I am sure the folks on DG's rose forum can tell you. This is my first year with roses, too, so I will be learning right along with you.
...
Subject: Not the only one
Posted by wratchetwrist (from Little Valley, NY) on March 24, 2008 at 11:48 AM:You're not the only one known in their neighborhood who is unknown to the neighbors EXCEPT as 'oh, you're the lady that has all those pretty flowers in her yard! We love driving by your house! I'm another one in that category! I just wish they'd stop and introduce themselves and chat a minute sometimes! ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 12:01 PM: Or stop for a minute and help weed!!!
Thanks for writing.
Sharon ...
Subject: I Cannot Believe This Story...
Posted by MistyPetals (from North Augusta, SC) on March 19, 2008 at 3:10 PM:made me tear up. I was actually crying. Egads! It's so beautifully written.
I'm going to go back and read some other articles you've written.
I am new at growing roses and this story made me,again,realize how our efforts affect the people arouind us. ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 3:58 PM: Misty, thank you. Actually it made me cry when it happened, too. I continue to see the policeman making his rounds, though, and he does circle my block daily.
You might like my Aunt Bett series, only one has been published, but 3 more are on the calendar. They should only make you smile. ... Posted by MistyPetals (from North Augusta, SC) on March 20, 2008 at 8:33 PM: you better not make me cry again. Oh, my, goodness. What really got to me was how demanding garden work is yet when the neighborhood verbally applauds your efforts, its WOW! time for you the gardener and obviously for them, the gawkers as well. In the long run, it works out. JOY!
Yes, I will take a peek at the Aunt Bett work but if my nose starts to quiver, you can expect an d-mail from me.
Keep up the nice work.
:-) Misty ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 20, 2008 at 8:36 PM: You can d mail me anytime, noses quivering or not!!!
I love SC....I'll bet you already have flowers blooming! ... Posted by sallyg (from Millersville, MD) on March 21, 2008 at 8:02 AM: A really nice story. I can only hope I might someday be the one with the house where the flowers grow to somebody. ... Posted by rubyw (from Crozet, VA) on March 24, 2008 at 9:04 AM: Loved it Sharran. What a wonderful writer you are. You kept my attention throughout and your way with words is excellent. Thanks for sharing this story.
Ruby ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 9:45 AM: Thanks, Ruby...
It was an article that wrote itself, trust me!!!
Funny but embarrassing!
And yes, Sally...that's the way I felt!
thank you all, glad you enjoyed it.
... Posted by Bookerc1 (from Mackinaw, IL) on March 24, 2008 at 11:57 AM: What a great story! I look forward to hearing about your roses down the line!
And I had to laugh at the "house where the flowers grow" part. I used to give directions to my house by saying, "You know the house with all the beautiful flowers?" Everyone immediately knew which house I meant. Then I'd have to follow up with, "Well, that's not mine. Mine is the little one with the bare yard next door." I'm doing my best to change that, though!
Booker
... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 11:59 AM: Ahhh how funny! I am sure you are doing a great job, Booker!
Thanks. ... Posted by paulineristeau (from Warren, MI) on March 25, 2008 at 2:14 AM: I loved your story ! Reminded me of being at the flower store and the lady ringing me up said " Oh your the one with the beautiful flowers on the fence ". Brought joy to my heart : ) Couldn't live without my Roses & Morning Glories & Amaranthus &butterfly bushes and... you get the picture LOL Hubby thinks I'm crazy I already have dozens of new seeds to try this year .
Thank you ...
Subject: Loved it!
Posted by doccat5 (from Fredericksburg, VA) on March 19, 2008 at 2:49 PM:Great story, I love these kinds of articles. Good job, Sharon! Thanks for sharing! ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 3:59 PM: Thank you, Cath. ... Posted by marieortiz (from Tolleson, AZ) on March 19, 2008 at 4:27 PM: Wonderful story thank you so much for sharing! ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 4:40 PM: Thank you, Marie, nice to hear from you again. ... Posted by girlgroupgirl (from Atlanta, GA) on March 19, 2008 at 8:45 PM: Ha! Now, there is a good reason why I do not drive. I have roses and flowers in my head all the time. My husband often "snatches" them as he says them come out my ears.
Overflow I guess!!
LOVED this article!
girlgroupgirl ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 20, 2008 at 2:44 PM: Thanks, GGG...
Hope things are much better for you today. ...
Subject: You speedster you!!!!
Posted by Bettypauze (from Victoria Harbour, ON) on March 19, 2008 at 12:48 PM:How refreshing Shar, lol, can't think of anything I'd rather be known as..a keeper of God's garden...so look forward to your articles...you had me laughing on this rainy day... Look forward to the next one!!! ... Posted by Seedtosser1 (from Glenview, IL) on March 19, 2008 at 1:32 PM: HAHAH, I love it!
Yep, made my day, Shar or I mean Liliputian...How fitting a name for such a cutie.
...Now slow down on the driving and hurry up and grow those roses.
... Posted by lizrainey (from San Mateo, CA) on March 19, 2008 at 11:14 PM: shar, wonderful story and i thought i had a lead foot! lol ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 11:57 PM: You all won't ever let me live this down. I should never have told.
Shhhhhhhhhhhhhh. ...
Subject: Love it!
Posted by cat64129 (from Rich Hill, MO) on March 19, 2008 at 9:58 AM:Great story Sharon. I can see myself in that car! :-) ... Posted by cathy4 (from St. Louis County, MO) on March 19, 2008 at 11:08 AM: What a wonderful story, thank you for sharing! ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 11:11 AM: thanks ladies....
Cat, you would have been hiding under the tons of roses on the floor of the back seat...it really was embarrassing.
And Cathy, thank you. ...
Subject: Great article!
Posted by Zuzu (from Sebastopol, CA) on March 19, 2008 at 4:11 AM:This was really fun to read, Sharon. I'm sure by next year everyone will be referring to your place as "the house where the roses grow." ... Posted by Dutchlady1 (from Naples, FL) on March 19, 2008 at 7:53 AM: What a lovely story and well written! ... Posted by pixie62560 (from South China, ME) on March 19, 2008 at 8:31 AM: Bravo!! Well written, good laugh and your famous and didn't know it. What a lovely way to be known.....'the house where the flowers grow'. I do believe that may be the status goal of all gardeners from now on! ... Posted by victorgardener (from Lower Hudson Valley, NY) on March 19, 2008 at 8:54 AM: Very nice story, Sharon! Maybe you can get him to water the plants when you're away. ... Posted by catmad (from Pelzer, SC) on March 19, 2008 at 8:56 AM: VBG!! I read the article and teared up at the "where the flowers are", and then realized it was YOU!! Wonderful story. Someday maybe I'll be known that way.
Nope. Never happen :). I'll always be one of those old catladies ......:) ... Posted by vossner (from Richmond, TX) on March 19, 2008 at 9:36 AM: I love stories like this! But tell me, how good looking was the cop? (naughty fantasies running thru my head...) ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 10:57 AM: You are all too great! This is one of those articles that I couldn't decide whether to submit or not.
Zuzu, I really hope so, I should have told him it was all YOUR fault!
I am really glad it brought a smile to all of you.
BTW, Vossner, I'd say a 10!!!
Thank you all.
... Posted by JasperDale (from Long Beach, CA) on March 19, 2008 at 11:56 AM: Another great read from one so gifted with telling a story. I loved it ! ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 19, 2008 at 12:03 PM: JD, thanks,
you contributed, you know. ... Posted by grampapa (from Wheatfield, NY) on March 19, 2008 at 8:58 PM: Sharon, what a wonderful story! we would really have missed out if you hadn't written it. and so glad you're joining the ranks of the rose addicted :0)
~ jan ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 20, 2008 at 2:43 PM: Thanks Jan....
I blamed it all on folks like you!! ... Posted by pirl (from Southold, NY) on March 21, 2008 at 8:50 AM: What a fun article to read! It's always fun when it happens to someone else, isn't it? Thanks for a morning smile, Sharon.
Y'all have a great day! ... Posted by Soulja (from Louisville, KY) on March 22, 2008 at 12:45 AM: I LOVED IT SHAR !!!! yours is the house where the flowers grow. just lovely. ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 22, 2008 at 12:55 AM: Thank you darlin.. ... Posted by Starzz (from Newcastle, ON) on March 22, 2008 at 5:15 PM: Sharon..
What a fun article..one that we all can relate to.....dreaming of our gardens........
I look forward to hearing how your roses grow.
Cheers,
Carol ... Posted by flowerhead410 (from Nelson, NH) on March 24, 2008 at 7:01 AM: Oh Shar-your stories make me cry and laugh at the same time. You should write a million stories-I will love them all! ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 9:47 AM: Thanks, Carol and Flower...it was a fun article, even embarrassing. Nice young cop, though.
Yep, I sure hope my roses grow! ... Posted by Soulja (from Louisville, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 11:07 AM: it struck me as the brilliant bubbling mind of the artist often daydreaming through banal chores and tasks...
like driving. {;-D ... Posted by Sharran (from Calvert City, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 11:22 AM: Oh yeah!!!
There is that, too. ... Posted by Soulja (from Louisville, KY) on March 24, 2008 at 11:32 AM:
{;-O ~ [oh no! look out for that tree!!!
...
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