There's a whole Vermicomposting Forum where they describe the various ways of doing what you described. I have on occassion received plants with worms in them and have left them alone. I don't think they survived too long in the smaller pots, although they may have in the larger ones. Not sure who "convinced" you otherwise but perhaps they were confusing "worms" (as in earthworms, etc) with "larva" (which are sometimes worm-like) of pests like some beetles or gnats, etc.

Hi, I've never actually tried this but read of it several times. Think they used a purchased (wouldn't you know) form of wood for a can. Have most everything going now but will try it when spring work lets up. This is the time of year I wonder about my brain____ 70 daylily, 60 other perennials, rasp and rose beds. Oh well, it will be nice when it is all cleaned off and shining in the sun.

Oops! I seem to have forgotten that I started this thread, but the responses have been very helpful. I think I will definitely to go El Camaguey and buy a tortilla press, although I don't think it has a stainless steel surface like Ann's, which would be nice. I do keep dry masa on hand, but I also keep fresh masa in the freezer - for making what I thought were empanadas, but which are probably quesadillas, at least as they are made in Mexico, and deep fried. As for flour tortillas, since I've found the whole grain tortillas in the market, I probably won't be making too many of those again, although I might want to experiment with some of the whole grain flours I have. I don't especially like tortillas made with all white flour, and corn tortillas are my favorite. When I first visited Vancouver for a long visit (1978 or so), I was shocked that I could not find fresh corn tortillas in the grocery stores (I did find frozen ones, but did not consider that acceptable). At that time, I practically lived on soft tacos (that I made myself, often with tofu), and so I had to make an adjustment. I think I bought some whole wheat crackers instead. I think I will try to find some Hispanic markets, although there aren't any in my immediate neighborhood. There are some in neighboring Mar Vista (where Scott lives), which is less than 2 miles from here. There are several places to buy fresh tamales, but they don't sell tortillas. Anyway, I think I will keep looking and also get the tortilla press. Lars

Liner pools generally have 42" walls in the kit. The walls are either steel or resin. Trying to get custom heights will add Liners will also cost somewhat more as the liner manufacturers also use 42 wall patterns that would need cutting down more than normal. All in ground liners are custom made. Most above grounds are not custom. The same amount of equipment and man/hours (well close anyway) may make this more also. Basically, what I am saying is that since you mentioned budget, shallower isn't cheaper.Many PBs have minimum prices also. Scott You might want to just build a 42" deep pool with some buddy seats. Throw some floats in and a very usable pool is there for you. Scott