Well if it is moving OK when the engine is running but won't when the engine is not running, you really are not getting it in the right place. Some of the old ones had a Neutral/Park AND a roll position. IF it is a really old one, there is a finger that comes over against the side of the rubber drive wheel. Try moving the shifter lever in different positions between 1st and notch which I think you are calling neutral but may actually be Park. It should be easy enough to just stand the thing up and see what is going on. Walt Conner

Someone here on this forum had wheeling neutral in their family room/dining area and they paired it with Guilford green. I thought it looked very good; of course she had a lot of windows and a view to die for, which never hurts, but still the colors worked together. I found the picture. See link below--scroll down to the bottom. Here is a link that might be useful: guilford green

I can relate to your struggle because I often felt the same way starting out (especially trying to make my decorating tastes mesh with my husband's often very different tastes), but just want to say I think you can still get where you want to be with your current neutral palette. Keep looking at your inspiration pictures and studying what it is they have in common, and add things you love bit by bit. April's advice is perfect. The rug can be the star if you find one you love that has tons of color and personality, or it can just be a supporting cast member. Here's another recent thread about rugs that might have some advice in it that resonates with you: http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/4848996/rug-ideas-for-bohemian-vintage-mcm-living-room?n=29

It is important to get the right undertone of the paint. To do that, colorists look at what the fixed items are, i.e., the floors, countertops, and cabinetry. The next thing to consider is the orientation of the house and what kind of light does it get? If you can post those pictures and information, you will get the advice you are looking for.... Karen