I never promised you a Rose Garden

My darling Ivan always promised me a Rose Garden and he has made me one in every single house we have lived in.  My Rose Garden in this house is just outside my study window and the scent and beauty of the roses often inspire me.

This morning, I couldn't resist taking some close-up photos of the roses, rather than the whole bed. 

Then I noticed that there were a number of aphids - the famous rose pest on some of the buds - I went and got the Pest Oil and gave them a good spray.  It was only when I began editing these pictures that I noticed the following - this is an adult female aphid, giving birth to live young.  Luckily I gave her a good spray, so hopefully she and her babies won't be eating my roses anymore - but isn't this just a great photo - pity it is slightly out of focus - should have had the tripod.

For those of you who don't know the song - or who just want to hear it again - I have copied the Youtube link for you to enjoy - I never promised you a Rose Garden by Lynn Anderson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WO4wcNVbYOQ