Chills: Actually, it would have been better to let it go dormant and dig it, but no sense crying over split mile (as Laurel, of Laurel and Hardy, used to say). Figs are tough, and you may still end up with three trees growing. Regarding the one you planted outside: it had little time to establish its own roots, planted that late in the year, so what you have outside is pretty much what you have inside--a big lump of fig roots and branches. Not rooted, the one outside should be really protected from the cold. Just bury it under MUCH mulch and/or soil, and even put a piece of plywood over the works, if you can. Fig wood buried in that manner should have life in it when you uncover it in the Spring, and should go on from there. Don't forget, the ones you have in your basement still need (some) water--about once a month, or they may dehydrate and die. Just moisten the soil so it's available to the roots--don't soak--and look in on them every few weeks, or so. If there is a possibility of vermin (rats, mice, voles, etc.) getting into your cold cellar, arrange your two potted figs so the vermin can't get to them. They will surely eat the sweet fig bark and wood, if you don't. Things oughta' work out if you do these few things. It'll give you something to look forward to in the coming year--FRESH FIGS!

Oh, also I'd like to paint the metal of the lamp. It's a little gross and rusted looking. I'd like to bring it back to a shinier metal...maybe silver. Any suggestions on how to do this? Spray paint? With a prettier metal finish on the lamp and new upholstery on the seat cushion, I might leave the wood unpainted. The veneer has seen better days, though. Can you use wood polish on wood veneer? Would that be a good option? Or should I sand and paint? Thanks guys!

You take a smple with the least amount of UV exposure to a reputable paint store where the pros shop, like Sherwin Williams. The color sample has to be at least quarter sized, but they can match it, no problem.

I havn't heard of half of the dance styles you mention but DH and I have been going to "Ceroc" classes (CEROC - DERIVED FROM "C'EST LE ROCK! Ceroc is a modern partner dance with the WOW factor. A funky blend of french rock 'n roll that has a latin look and feel.) We've been going since August last year and we just love it! I've had to sit on the side lines for a few months because I hurt my shoulder but I had my first night back on Wed -talk about great exercise. DH just graduated up to Intermediate level with his first class last night but I'll be wallowing in beginners for some time yet! The Ceroc groups around Auckland often run dance parties altho we've only managed to make it to one of them but it was terrific fun!