A local garden center had a koi pond with an underwater bridge made from a large flagstone supported (invisibly) by cinder blocks. They said that it provides a large shelter for the big koi to stay under when a predator threatens. It's a deepish pond, at least 3 feet and when you look down into it, the appearance is that the big shelter rock is on the bottom. They said that it works very well. It sure looks nice. I was surprised to see a few large koi swim out from beneath it. I didn't know that they were there.

I had a suspicion that a heron was eating my fish when I went to feed them and for a few days they would not come out. One morning I sat and watched and sure enough I heard a splash and there were two. They seemed to come at the same time each day. Early in the morning and about two o'clock. So I waited with a hose and shot at them a few times, once causing the bird to drop a fish. I then put two decoy ducks or geese in my pond and they float around slowly. I haven't had a problem since I added the decoys. My pond is about 5000 gallons with a waterfall and small bridge about four feet to walk across. I live in a suburb area so I also get quite a few raccoon's and possums but since I am the only one in my neighbor hood with a water feature I guess it's to be expected. They never go after my fish just drink a little water. Try decoy's they work very well. It has been three months and I have not lost nay more of my Koi or goldfish, and I am proud to say I have a little over 125 now ranging from 8 inches to brand new babies.

You've done nice work so far. The kitchen is beautiful and so is the floor. I just have a couple of comments. I think your current seating arrangement is as good as it's going to get. I wouldn't buy a loveseat if you can fit two sofas instead. Put a sofa table behind the one facing the TV to will help to define the entrance. Square the TV cabinet up to the wall. Then either put the TV on a swivel or on an articulating arm to adjust for viewing. I like whitewashed fireplaces, so I would start there. You can always paint it if you don't like it, but you can't go the other way. As for style and color, save your favorite rooms in your living room ideabook. I see you already have two, both neutral, both transitional. Try to identify what it is about each room that you like. You will eventually either get a clear vision for the space...or be totally confused and run back here screaming and we'll help you sort it out. ;-)

Meh. Interior is too cold for my taste, especially with that depressing grey paint, but that's changeable. I certainly wouldn't describe it as "mini hotel", though.