Heartzlink, not sure if you were aware, but right under the Winter Sowing title for our forum are several blue links, one of which is the Frequently Asked Questions or FAQ, which will take you thru this step by step. I think Trudi must have updated recently becoz it is now even easier to understand and see what to do. I buy whatever potting soil is available and cheap. If it feels too heavy and clumpy like Hyponex usually does, I don't use that. I usually end up with Miracle Gro, Schultz, Scotts. I used to get the Sam's brand from Walmart which was very good but I don't see that anymore. I don't fertilize, personally, at least in the winter sowing phase. I don't use the Moisture Control, nor the fertilizer-included pot. soil, becoz it's more expensive and not in keeping with what Mother Nature would do via the winter sowing method. I fertilize in the garden beds as I would normally do with either compost or slow-release in spring or if needed in summer. I add soil to my containers, then water them and let drain, then sow the seeds, pat them in, or push them in if they are larger seeds, then cover the container with the top of your jug or in a plastic bag (drainage holes and vent holes needed), tape up or tie up, I label with a paint pen from Walmart craft dept, and place outside. Sometimes I wet the soil in a bucket or bin or wheelbarrow first, but it's messier that way and you can't handle more seeds or markers w/o being wet. Hope this helps you figure this out, and here's to much success. Laurie

I just ordered a Kohler toilet, shower rod and rings from VintageTub.com I'm in Toronto. Best price for the Kohler Bancroft locally was $395 + 13% tax. VintageTub.com sells it for $329 with free shipping. Total cost delivered to my front door is $400. So $40+ cheaper than buying locally and free delivery to my door on top. Just tells me the locals are gouging on Kohler at least. I'm in a huge market (Toronto - millions of people) and the prices I got were from large operations that buy in bulk and get the best prices from the manufacturers. So no excuses when a US company can get me the same toilet, shipped from PA to Toronto with all taxes, duties, fees etc. for less.

When we had cats, this worked for me. Our hamster got out of the cage and our cats were in pursuit in the attic. Calling them did not work so I ran and got the electric can opener. When they heard the noise from the opener, they came running toward me and the hamster was safe. Of course, this will only work if the cat is fed canned food and the cans are opened with an electric opener. If so, it's worth a try. I hope he gets his cat soon.

A little late to the game, but in case you're still looking... here's an idea: have you looked at adjustable louvered roofs? They might be more expensive than what you're looking for b/c they're more than awnings for sure. BUT they last forever, unlike the awning and are a true investment in your home. They're like a pergola but the louvers adjust via remote control 160 degrees to open for sun or close for shade and rain protection. They're super durable and can be clad to fit design styles. But, like I said, they're a significant jump in price from an awning. BUT they're a lot less than a porch (unless you add all the whistles and bells like screening, heaters, speakers, PVC cladding, lighting, fans, etc...in that case, it might come a bit closer to a porch cost) A basic one for your size deck, w/ a fan, would prob cost you anywhere between $7K-15K depending on size of the Equinox and other variables and such. Here's a pic of a basic one from Core Outdoor Living in DC Metro region. You can probably search adjustable louvered roof or Equinox Adjustable Louvered Roof and find dealer/installers in your area. You can check out Core's portfolio too to get ideas. http://www.coreoutdoor.com/equinox/