David, LOL! Didn't we have fun in Tennessse! I miss you and would love to see you soon. I really wanted the front seat! I am telling all of you, it was so exciting to share snow with my Maggie. DH took a test tube of snow and froze it so Maggie would always have her "first snow" (rolling eyes). You guys, it really is a big deal that we got snow!! May (lowspark), I thought of you during the day ;-) Annie, I like our "dusting" of snow. I am not prepared for 30 inches. We would be land locked and not know what to do with ourselves.

The Johnson kits are pretty decent, but I never use the 'pre-framed' ones. I build out a thicker wall (about the same as a wet wall). This allows electrical boxes to be installed. Johnson has a number of different ratings on the hardware. The 111PD line is more than adequate for most interior doors and keeps the track under 1.25 inches wide. One of the 'tricks' is to never mount the track directly to a weight bearing header. The header should be moved up a few inches, then a section of 2x mounted with clearance from the header, and the track attached to the 2x. This is not required in non-weight bearing walls, but avoiding any sag in a weight bearing header will ensure the pocket hardware functions for a long time. The only other problem I encounter is the plastic tabs used to prevent the door from swinging. They tend to scratch the portions of the door that rub against them. I put aluminum angle in the bottom of the pocket and cut a matching groove on the bottom of the door. If the groove is stopped before the 'show' edge of the door it cannot be seen. Another trick for panel doors is to add a strip of wood to the pocket edge the same thickness as the door and about 1-2 inches wide. This allows the full width of the door to be used while leaving some in the pocket for noise and swing control. Adding a stop on the non-pocket jamb also helps with sound and blocks sight (if you really want to reduce sound 'brush seals' or even felt seals around the door can help). The split trim jamb on the top of the door should be mounted with screws (on at least one side). You will need to remove it to get the door off the bogies. Trim head square drive screws provide a good option here. Pocket door hardware is definitely finish carpentry, not framing. Make sure you have the correct kind of carpenter.

A little late to the party but what incredible and joyous news! I can imagine how thrilled you and your husband are and the doll story really made me smile to know that he's as thrilled and involved as are you. They sound like wonderful children. So sad about their eating problems in the past and yes it'll take a while to get over that but you're clearly taking great steps to help her and them settle in and soon they'll know that this is a different and better life. One suggestion, take it for what it's worth. How about letting them help plan out meals? Do a menu for a week or so and let them help. I would think that would relieve some apprehension about whether they will eat and it's never too early to let them help in their own way on the meal prep. BTW, don't forget about the library! That can be a regular outing. One thing I want to say though, there's a lot of comments and I'm sure even more thoughts about the natural parents and I want to point out how many people give children bad lives but WON'T give them up. I want to give credit that the mother realized she couldn't handle them anymore and willingly gave up her rights. That must be difficult to do. And the fathers gave up their rights too. Kudos to them too. I hope they're not left out in the cold. Not suggesting visitation or anything but maybe an update occasionally to let them know how the kids are doing could be nice. Just something to think about... not that there's anything else on your mind now!!! ;) They'll probably ask about their parents sometime and should know the full story age appropriate and I have confidence you'll do what you feel is right. I have the utmost confidence in you and your husband, respect for you for doing this and taking all three - not everyone would take on a chore like this, and it really is a win-win-win situation. For you, the kids and yes the bio-parents. Make that a win-win-win-win, since they didn't wind up in some shelter, orphanage or something. Really puts a warm fuzzy feeling in my heart. Good for you and all of you. So many things to do, so much fun too. Of course there'll be ups and downs but I can tell you'll do just fine and be one big happy family. My best to all of you!

Poor birdies. I don't care what it would look like I would have to put some stickers on it or I couldn't live with myself lol. Google 'bird strike stickers' there are tons out there.