I'm in no way an expert, never imported bulbs from "down under", but I did import orchids from around the world including the southern hemispere. Orchids do have a natural rest period like most other plants incuding hippeastrums. So I will deal with my new hippies in the same way I dealt with my orchids before. Maguire's hippies are hybrids and these plants are evergreen and should be kept growing year round, at least so says V. Read in her book on page 192. Many have of you have also said so on this forum before me, and this is what I also do. Of course, they don't bloom for Xmas but naturally on their own schedule. This way of doing is not that bad I suppose, my Rapido that is starting to bloom has 2 scapes, the first one carries 7 buds and it's too early to tell what the 2nd one holds in store. So, what will I do with my Maguire's hips? Pot them up as soon as they arrive, water them and put them in a bright and warm place away from direct sun rays so the growth gets going again. They should make leaves during the summer, the bulb should reenergize itself and bloom next spring. I wouldn't be surprised to see some of them bloom this summer, but from them on, they will be treated like any other house plants and do what other house plants do. Through obsevation, I will care for them in the way they tell me they want me to care for them. My way is certainly not the only one, may be not the best way either, it would be nice to hear how other peoples intend to deal with their new bulbs. What do *you* intend to do upon the arrival of your new kids? Laurier

Hi, Some vines have tendrils, like Clematis for example, that grab onto a trellis, fence etc and grow up. Others like virginia creeper have disks that adhere to structures. Some need to be trained and mounted to the trellis, like climbing roses. It all depends on which vine you get. You may have to start it out by training it around, or it will do its own thing. the little wood trellis is just to support the small vine until you plant it and it has something bigger to climb. Good luck, and let us know which vine you choose! Bet it will be beautiful. Jen

Thanks Marie. I am in therapy and go each week. I think you're right in that he is scared he's going to lose me too. My therapist has suggested that when I do speak to him to see if he will get help since this is so overwhelming for him. Thanks for your reply.

Shelf life on a hot water heater is 15-20 years so yours has had a good life It would be cost effective to replace it. That said it sounds like you may have sediment in your lines that is slowing things down. I would venture to guess the bathroom with the most hot water is/was the one least used. So that would lead I am sure to how to fix it and that would depend on many thing like the age of your plumbing and what kind of pipes they are. There are a few things you might be able to have a plumber do but not many so your water lines may need replaced also. If you got a home owners warranty when you bought your home it may cover both the tank and any water line replacement Good luck Amy