Hard to believe it's been that long. I have made some amazing friends here and learned LOTS about irises. Thanks to Dave, Trish and family. It's the first place I come in the morning and the last place I visit at night.

I have and continue to learn a great deal from all of the great members on ATP. I have also met some great people who I consider my cyber friends. We have exchanged many irises, asked many questions, posted lots of ideas, shared many laughs and some tears as the years passed. My morning coffee wouldn't be as enjoyable without ATP! Thanks Trish and Dave for your wonderful idea.

I too have greatly benefitted from time spent on this site. I came at first for database, then to have iris questions answered, then because I noticed how much joy and passion everyone had for their beloved plants. The members of this gardening community have been kind, and helpful, and generous. I have enjoyed getting to know them, and - at least in the iris forum - laughing with them as we all share a love of our gardens and of life.
Thanks Dave and Trish!

I also continue to lear here. The most amazing thing is that we can compare experiences. For example, it was amazing to learn about peonies in other northern gardens; when they emerge in spring and how they grow.

It's interesting to see the progression of blooms for specific plants. What works where, why, why not? It truely is a community making it all work.

Sitting on our various porches and discussing some of our favorite things or cutting up and making plans for clandestine garden raids, you all are my second family. Bravo and brava for making MY life a little sweeter and brighter and funnier and MUCH more interesting.

Back at ya Celia!

We started out unknown to each other, with only our love of Irises in common. Those of us who have been here from the beginning have come to know and like each other, sharing the highs and lows of our lives, as well as our Irises. We've welcomed new members along the way, and they've become a vital part of the fabric of our group.

I start my days with a cup of coffee while checking in to the Iris Forum at ATP -- to see how my friends are doing. And I end my days with a nice glass of wine and another visit to see what the day has brought them. I agree with you completely, Celia -- it IS a second family, and all of our lives are richer for it.

Thank you to Dave and Trish for providing the format for perfect strangers to become valuable friends.

A family of choice...

A garden of forums and friends, plants and animals, good times and tears, where even shy lurkers can find their place to bloom and grow.

Thanks to you all.

Well said, Jean.