In the 2 years that it has been running I have not noticed any issue with rock in the bottom. I do use a sludge reducer every few weeks to help with the organics in the pond. The fish do seem to push the rocks down the drop off frequently.. I do have to go in from time to time and relocate them up on the upper lever so I don't get that nasty build up in them that smells bad.. Planning on putting a few big rocks there at the drop so the smaller rock cant be moved down the sloap. Troy

Thanks so much for the kind words. This project has been the most fun of all. To answer some questions, the daylilies are just common "ditch" lilies. I absolutely adore them, though! They were in that location before I built the potager since I planted them last fall. I got the obelisks from Plow & Hearth. There was a 30% off coupon that I found, which helped with the price. I got two 8' obelisks and four 7' ones. Happy birthday to me! I know it was a bit of an extravagance, but I really wanted the space to be as much about its ornamental value as its productivity. So far, they are working out really well. I expect to enjoy them for many years. I'd really love input on whether or not to stain or paint the fence. Part of me wants to let the cedar weather. When I first had some portions of the fence installed last fall (I had to gate off some sections at the corners of the property), I bought a gallon of opaque white stain. I haven't used it. Part of the reason I hesitate is that the entire opposing length of fence on the other side of my yard is natural wood and will stay that way since it belongs to the neighbor on that side. I've also been checking out a couple of different fences around my town and have admired one stained a grayish-blue and another a grayish-green. Going with a color stain like that would be less of a contrast between the neighbor's natural wood fence and mine. I dunno. Any thoughts? Picking colors always scares me. Thank you so much again. It's so nice to be able to share this space with people who understand. Lisa

well,I love every one of them.They are all gorgeous,but,looking at your mini climber,I may have to change my plans of where I want to plant mine.I have it in a small pot right now as just got it the end of January.The looks of them canes don't much look like a mini.Guess they get a lot bigger then I thought it would.Its gorgeous tho,and I am happy I have it,just have to figure wheres my best place to put it. Jean

Thanks everyone, I'll try and answer all the questions! Blue, never has been a favorite color of mine... until now! I just love the blue gray colors - but not sure how they work with the rugs - that have no blue in at all. Front porch railing - yes, it was installed Friday! I'm excited about it - took 5 months to get! I posted an update on the front door thread. The SW Creme is in the big white color brochure. It is SW 7556 Creme, it really is such a pretty, soft color! The dining room table is 3 years old, I found it locally and ordered it online from Lexfurniture (saved a lot!!) It is by Lorts (http://www.lorts.com) and available with or without a plank top. Great, great, great suggestions!! I can hardly wait to start shopping, but I know taking my time is important! I need to decide on a mantel... we have been playing around a bit - but a week ago.. DH almost cut his thumb off on a table saw! He had surgery Friday to reattach all the nerves and the tendon, and he will be okay - but it is putting a halt to some of our restoration. homeagain, Coastal Cottage or English Cottage.. I'm not sure! I know I don't really want Shabby Chic, and I love coastal cottage, but I do find I'm drawn to English Cottage as well... a bit of design confusion! So, so much to think about - so glad I have all you helping me along the way!!!