That is a very nicely budded scape, and the bloom that goes with it is lovely too! Thanks for posting the photo. I think I will try to add this one and Sellstation Sunset since they are so well budded. Debra

Looks like things are progressing almost like text book here. Babies fledged last Wed. and I'm seeing more of them. I've only seen three at a time and two this morning. I was kind of sad not seeing more, but everyone here said they may be around so I'm keeping my hopes up that more of the five have survived. I'm DIEING to get some good pics of the babies! Moma is eating some of this store brand peanut nuggets. So I'm going to try to lure her to the back deck and maybe once we get some sun I can get some pics with the babies. I've been watching the nest box and I was seeing the beginings of a new nest, YEA! Today the nest looks close to complete... I've even gone out and found grass and pine needles to help out since everything is so wet. I did find a wren in one of my boxes, so it looks like I'll NEED a guard this time around. I tried one last round but took it off since there was already hatchlings and the parents couldn't navagate it. I"m going to add a predator block on the hole, should have it anyways, and maybe that will help them land at the hole. I'll start another thread soon, this one is getting way long...

Once on you tube don't forget to follow some of the related links. Check out the linked "Sandra Lee's Drunk Christmas Tree." Love the caption - "Sandra Lee decorates a tree with empties and calls it a Cocktail Tree. Nothing says 'happy birthday, Jesus' like wiring up some used shot glasses and martini glasses and putting them on a tree. Someone call AA!" Here is a link that might be useful: Christmas Tree

Hi ex007 - it's held up great! I've lived in our new kitchen for a year+ and I have had no etching or staining issues whatsoever. I'm pretty good about cleaning as I go - my husband not so much, but even with him leaving spills, etc on the countertops more than I would, we've had no problems. Let me know if you have any other questions. Good luck!