If your speaking of geothermal, take it slow and become informed. Do a google search with geothermal heat pump and go to one of several good geothermal blog sites. The rebates do not always make up for the added hasle these systems can bring. Because the popularity is expanding, there can be a vaccum of qualified installers. As with most systems, the installer is more important than the hardware. I have used geothermal for more than 35 years and can see why it is not appropriate for everyone and all situations. The hardware has made significant progress in the last five years but, there are lots of untrained slick talkers ready to take your money and run. I won't have anything but geothermal but, I am a DIY person that can deal with things the average person would puke over.

Hmm; I didn't see the Blanco message about authorized online retailers before I ordered. I bought our Silgranit super single (and a new faucet) from FaucetDirect.com, which is not an authorized Blanco retailer. Not sure I would have if I'd known -- the sink and faucet were the entirety of my 'reno'. But there were no problems. A good piece of advice from this forum: No matter who you buy from, or where, as soon as you're in possession of the sink inspect it thoroughly for cracks or damage (and document with photos if you find any). This is particularly important for those who, like me, buy the sink and faucet months before they're installed.

I also don't recommend a single bamboo shade that wide. I had the same issue while looking to cover our 74" wide dining room window. I was told the shade will probably weigh over 20lbs and the lifting cords and mechanisms will wear out pretty quick. Window Blind Outlet sells ready-made sizes up to 74" but they recommended to us that single shades shouldn't exceed 60" in width. Especially if the shade will be opened and closed frequently. Hope this helps. Your kitchen is gorgeous.

Gift opening is done. Dinner and dessert is finished and the day was perfect. My kids all picked out wonderful gifts for me. I only had one thing that I asked for, and my older son found it for me: a PSP paddle so I can play games with someone else. Other than that, I didn't ask for anything. My other two kids found nice gifts as well: my son bought me a blouse and perfume from The Body Shoppe. My daughter bought me an M&M's t-shirt from the M&M store when she went to Vegas, some make up and my favourite candies. My husband almost gave me a heart attack. I knew he was buying me a Canon G12 point and shoot. What I didn't know was he also bought me a lens for my DSLR. A 24 - 105 L IS. I was in total shock! I can't wait to learn how to use it properly now. It's the perfect 'walk-about' lens. At the end of the day, if all they bought me were dollar store gifts because it's all they could afford, I would be just as happy. The spirit of Christmas is giving. Not recieving. :o)