I agree with ginnibug, diversity in leaves is what really makes the plants attractive since most of the year they don't have flowers. I have one of the miniatures where the entire plant is no more than an inch-and-a-half tall. Variety is Seiryujishi. But my problem is that although the plants grow very well here in north Florida, the hot summers tend to prevent it from blooming except just occasionally; my Neo falcata plants can go years between blooms.

GGG -- How awful! And, it's worse on older folks. My mom got it too (she's 81), but luckily, she only had it briefly. It hit me quickly too. One minute I felt just fine...five minutes later, I was in REAL trouble. Blech. We are all much better now, though, thanks! What kind of tomatoes do you have? I want to start my new veggie garden this year...I'd like to do a four-square, raised boxes thing, if I can get hubby to make with the lumber and construction...and I always love tomatoes, but bored with the selections at the garden centers. I like grape varieties, and I'll do a Better Boy or two because...heck...they taste good. But, I'd love to try heirlooms.

Reading your post, I think I worded my first one badly...My apologies to Buehl if my description of her original plan was offensive. I just meant that Beuhl felt there were problems and others felt the same...That there might be a better layout for that room. At first I honestly thought it would never be a great space, but it was really fun to see the development. Buehl's space was more difficult and had more limitations with ductwork, through traffic, etc., etc. You should take heart, because I already saw one very workable plan come out of your thread, and there may be more possibilities if you want changes. The benefit of being here is that you have people helping you with wide varieties of experiences, family situations, ideas, and styles...So there's a good chance someone will see something new or discover that elusive 'something' you've been looking for to make the plan the best it can be. Ultimately, it's always the decision of the kitchen owner to take or leave the advice, as it should be, since you know your wants and needs best, but usually by the time you're done here, there is no stone unturned to try to make a space into a better kitchen. Every layout in each house seems to be a new learning experience and a new puzzle. If you've read here very long, you'll see that some of these kitchens take several months and several plans before the owner feels they've got the best use of their room. It's a process! But usually worth taking the time to get it right.

I love the swing too! I used to have it on the deck, but it took up too much room, and is a nice focal point in the back. And my neighbor kid, now 6, considers it his own. It warms my heart when I see him out there swinging with his stuffed dog, or hopping along the path. Over the weekend he helped me put some plants in pots, which gave him pride of ownership - yesterday he told his Dad he had to go to Ann's to check on "his" plants. He and I took a tour, and I pointed out things that were just coming up, so hopefully he won't tromp on them - though I will gladly put up with a little damage when he's young, if it promotes a life-long love of the plants and the "forest".