While I think that the "FAQ" as outlined by swanoir was presented tongue in cheek ('the humus'), many of the subsequent comments and/or links to threads that could/should be included in a FAQ were presented in a more serious tone. And maybe they do make sense as a foundation to a real LD forum FAQ. But I've also sensed something else in these comments that may contribute to the apparent lack of communication between new posters seeking advice and those that regularly frequent this forum and offer it. And that is that the long checklist provided by Miss R must be (or should be) answered in detail before posting. Well, of course not! But it is definitely something worth reviewing and giving some thought to. This checklist, or something very similar, is what most designers utilize when first meeting with a prospective client. It gives them a feeling for what the client wants to do with the property, how they intend to use it, what they hope to get out of it and how much effort (time/$$) are they are intending to put into it. Hopefully, reviewing an outline or checklist such as this could help to refine and focus some of those blank slate questions and even educate those new posters totally unfamiliar with the process the degree of complexity, the number of variables and exactly what is involved in the formulation of a landscape design. Even DIY landscape texts intended for the homeowner with no previous design or landscaping experience offer similar checklists to get one started thinking about the process. Obviously, this is overkill for those questions that are more issue-specific, but I think very appropriate for those that are much broader and far less focused.

Hi Everyone, Joan... I was so confused as well. When i ordered this "Jean" from Fuzzy, i thought it was a Jean. Well, after i posted this pic to another forum.. I received a post and was corrected that it was a "Jeannie" . I already have a Jeannie from Bud, so i wanted to get a Jean. There is a Jean Jr. (AKA as Jeannie) and Jean Sr. (Jean) So... I contacted Fuzzy and he contacted Richard Criley and said that (Rich) schooled him about the two. Fuzzy had been listing his Jean and it actually was Jeannie. (AKA as Jean Jr.) He was very sorry for the misunderstanding and he has fixed the name on the Ebay website. Rich had mentioned that Jim Little was selling Jean as Moragne # 78. That is all i know. You could ask Fuzzy about the Moragne # 78... I am happy with my Jeannie and will probably just be happy with the Moragnes that i have. : ) Just to know that Fuzzy thanked me and has changed what was listed makes me happy. So here is to Fuzzy to take his time and contact Rich Criley to ask him about my question.. That was very nice of him and i thank him. Now others will get their Jeannie instead of thinking it is a "Jean" Sigh..did you get that? LOL... K, I was talking to James about the Metallica. I had contacted him and had told him about what i wanted and his thoughts. He was most gracious and gave me his valued opinion. So... i was holding my breath that this cutting would root! Oh... "What a relief that was.." LOL... BTW....YOu do have a great "melon"... I always appreciate that you use it wisely!!! Jen... You are more than welcome to use my pic anytime you want!!! I'm glad that it makes you feel relaxed. I love to go outside and mess in my yard. It is my only way to relaz when i get home from work. You know the long hours that i work when im gone.. ARrggg! No CLue... You are welcome to come and live amongst my Plumies whenever you want!!! LOL.. It will give my DH something else to think about!!! : ) As far as the count? I really have stopped counting. Must be a sign of my addiction!! I really think that i have around 90# or so... no more than 100!!! PS.. Don't tell anyone!!! LOL..especially my DH!!! LMAO!! Barbra. I cant wait until you receive your Metallica. I was so excited about this one.. I have never paid a price like this for a cutting and if i knew it would be for sale rooted for ony 10 more dollars... I would have waited. Must less stress on me .. The last few months waiting for a sign of rooting was killing me.... SIgh... I cant wait to see more pics from everyone!! Thanks again for all of the kind comments.. you all are the best!!! Laura

I am VERY late in posting as I have been busy over the holidays but just HAD to comment on these great tables! Betty - Your blue and white snowflake table is so pretty, I can't believe that was for your grandsons! They are so fortunate to have a Nanny who would do that for them and I think the earlier you expose boys to the 'pretty' things in life, the more romantic they are as they get older (which of course, us women appreciate!). Your beautiful table should have made an impression even if it was subconsciously! Keep up the great work! My favourite part is your centerpiece - how smart to put a snowflake box on a cake plate, it really sets the theme! (Glad to hear Alfred is doing well - that really was a scare for all of us last summer!) Dream, I would never have thought to put pink with a snowflake theme but yours turned out so wonderfully and gave it a romantic touch. Your "snowflake" silver angel as a centerpiece is perfect! Love those salad plates! You have a great idea to use those votive holders as individual butter dishes next time (I, too have so many pretties on the table, there is never enough room for food!)I wish I could find those beaded placemats at a reasonable price - way too much even after Christmas! Mo, that snowflake runner is stunning and sets the theme to your table so well. I can't believe you MADE it along with the snowflake placemats! (Professional not amateurish!) Your centerpiece of "snowballs" in a bowl on a mirror is a terrific idea too! Your blue plates go well with everything and I agree that this is your best table so far - terrific! Can't wait to see more in the future!

Yeah what Katie said (whistling...) The steak knives for vegetarins brings up a point that hit home for me....sure, this swap is about favorite things, but I find that MY favorite stuff would NOT be welcome in some places, so I stick with 'what would he/she like?' I'm such a practical person, sigh.