Thanks so much ladies for your additional responses. It never ceases to amaze me of the wealth of expertise that lies on this board (besides cycling of course).

DH has been wanted to tear out some overgrown evergreens in the front of the house for a while now. Hmm, maybe if all goes well I will plant some more roses in the front. It's about the only other sunny spot on our property.

It was an interesting trip to the garden shop when I bought the bush... at season's end, the selection was limited. I wanted a yellow rose for my yellow lab. They didn't have any. I think the multicolored one works even better. It's called Mardi Gras. How appropriate for a memorial celebration. Plus, it does remind me of a rainbow (like Rainbow Bridge). So, all it good. Especially now that I have great advice on how to care for it.