Loved this story, Kit-- I completely relate. A few days ago, I received a Chronopost delivery with a box full of plastic bags containing dried brown strands that, I'd only know from the label stuck to the plastic bag, will one day become Asters. I'm not holding my breath--I didn't know until I read your story that they were supposed to be soaked in water before planting. Now I'm going to dig them up and stick them in water. Next time I order, no bare roots.