We, meaning the northeast, had a very mild winter this past year. There is no guarantee that cane, or any other, is going to survive next winter. Given that, I would only prune the tall cane down if it wasn't more than say a third of the bush. You don't want to cripple the rose enough that it might not make it through next winter.

Without seeing it, I'd bet on Salvia Coccinea. While it is an annual where your are, the seeds will overwinter and sprout the next year. When I grew it as a reseeding annual it often didn't bloom until well into July. The general rule with this salvia is to keep it deadheaded. Just about the time that a flower stalk flags there are usually new stalks ready to bloom, and it all can happen within a few days. My own plants have had to be deadheaded numerous times already this summer, and if I keep at it the plants should look good until frost. And one more thing. If you collect or buy seeds and plant them indoors like you would tomatoes, you can expect blooms in June and much larger plants. Your right, Robins site is great. We still have ways to go, or at least I do, on what salvias are hardy for zone 6b. If you start experimenting please let us know how it goes. There is also a lot of talk about salvia on the hummingbird forum.

I will chime in with another vantage point, which is some of the functional issues you raised. Having an impossible to clean sink is something I have dealt with in previous homes and it drove me absolutely crazy. Since you mentioned that, I would want to address the sink and by association the countertops to improve functionality before spending lots of budget on appearances like the backsplash. I might consider replacing the sink and countertops with a nice stainless sink, and whatever is your entry price counter of choice. I am a porcelain tile fan myself. Then I would just elbow-grease the painting needs and yes, consider breadboard on the backsplash as I think it would look remarkably wonderful with your style of home. Regarding your fridge area, if the wall partitions are removed, what is the physical area available? And where was the fridge located before it was there? Would moving it back allow for an all fridge and all freezer? And where are your home entrances and other adjoining rooms? More floor plan info would help us see the flow from room to room better.

I haven't read all the postings, so please forgive if I repeat something someone else has already pointed out. I understand the 'suite' is attached to your house as opposed to a seperate structure on your lot. (I don't know if this makes any difference where YOU live - but it does where "I" live (CA).) Do a search for "Civil Code" for your State. For example - For me, I search "State of California Civil Code". When I get to the right place, I click on "Civil Code", and type Landord, Tenants in the search. It gives all the laws. A LOT of reading, but very informative. Would be worth your while to read and take notes before even paying an attorney or otherwise. I had "roommates" most of my life in the past. The laws have changed here so much in recent years, that I'd 'hesitate' today to get a roommate again. At least, not like in years past where I just ran an ad and interviewed people... Laws are protecting Tenants now MORE than ever. AND, I've heard today, even if you "just let someone move in for awhile", it CAN be VERY hard to get them OUT even if they pay you NOTHING! As you describe your place, sounds like an ideal setup for a retired person or couple. As I scanned some other posts VERY BRIEFLY, I did notice defining as "roommate" rather than "renter" - so to speak. I think I agree - ROOMMATE. But yes, you have insurance to think about. If they hurt themselves on your property...DING! If someone were to die IN you home...police, CSI, investigaters, potential lawsuit? Since your suite is connected - what about your personal stuff inside the home? (What if stuff starts turning up "missing"?) Also...you may have the "surprise" of the renters having "VISITORS". What about that? Family, "overnight guests", friends. OK, fine - they need that. But what if the wild and crazy Grandkids come over every weekend and are loud and obnoxious and cause chaos everywhere? How long would you put up with that? I think it's a GREAT idea - could help you AND some other person to live better, provided the conditions are right. I'd definately read and familiarize yourself with the Civil Codes first. Take lots of notes and take your time. Consider all the possibilities - good and bad. Be Honest with yourself about what COULD go wrong. (Looking just at the extra income - throw that out the window) I'd also strongly consider an attorney. (If you are half-way understanding of laws - less time and confusion at attorny's office! OR, at very least, a little more educated and would know what questions to ASK the attorney.) I know there's a lot of good people out there who would consider it a blessing in disquise to be able to rent your place. But there's a lot of people out there with "other motives" also. (Now, when I have time, I'll read all the other posts! LOL!)