I was looking for something small a few months back. I ended up buying a smallish system ($50) from Target that looks like a 7 inch cube plus speakers. It has radio and Cd player. I'm not an audiophile. I just want music to listen to while I'm cleaning the house and don't want it to take up valuable space or cost a fortune. Probably still not what you're looking for, but I think I understand your motivations.

I checked my local garden center. They have a large selection of pots of many types but most are either solid color or the multi colored Mexican type. No blue and white to be seen. However since you both suggest trying garden centers I will try some more. Wow Dally, some of those 'fishbowls' are gorgeous! A little pricey for me, but really lovely. Thank you. I am going to save the link so that if my boat comes in......!:) Les, the link you gave has pots that are more in my price range, but I will try to find some at my local garden centers first to avoid the shipping charges, and support my local businesses if possible. Thank you for the link.

I don't know if there's a dealer near you, but The Bedworks of Maine has pretty much what you want. I think the "Yarmouth" or "Freeport" are probably just about right. The trundle is purchased separately, see under "bedroom furniture". The furniture is very sturdy, made in Maine instead of China, and well priced.

Thanks to everyone for your input. So many helpful suggestions. I have ordered a bunch of samples -- Duro and a couple other kinds of cork, two brands of linoleum, and... rubber! nosoccermom, I will also think about a painted wood floor. It's a look that I love, though it may be a bit "country" for our apartment. Interesting to hear from checkerboard-floor folks who regret the decision... we have B&W vinyl now, in our "before" kitchen, and we have never had a problem keeping it clean. Maybe I just have lower standards than most! ;-)