Thanks for the tip. I called the main number for Miele USA tomorrow and ask about the warranty. In the August 08 brochure, these are the differences it lists between the Diamante G2120SC and the Optima G2430SC, but it doesn't always explain what they are. Temperature settings: 5 Diamante, Vario Optima Economy cycle: Diamante China & Crystal: Optima Sound: Q2 Diamante, Q3 Optima Auto Sensor -Optima G2430SC additions ($1679): Removable Bottle Holder 24hr Delay Start Water Softener Detergent Options -Optima G2470SCSF additions ($1899): Hidden Controls Acoustic Function Monitor Optical Function Monitor When I saw the Optima and Diamante, both looked to have the same cutlery tray. I think only the Excelle and LaPerla had the cutlery tray in two removable sections. For Detergent we use the Cascade 2-in-1 Packs (powder) with Dawn. For that, would the Optima be set for Gel or 2-in-1? The manual says the 2-in-1 setting is if it has a rinse aid built into the packet. The Cascade 2-in-1 does not, so I guess the Gel setting would be the best one to use. As posted yesterday, the dishwasher would have to be connected to my Hot Water line. Because of that, it would be around 120F when it get to the unit. It could heat the water even hotter if needed, but I wonder if it would lower the temperature if needed. It looks like the Diamante has 5 pre-set temperature settings (it doesn't say what the are) and the Optima can adjust it to any. I'd have to think about the extra cost for the Optima, as a few of the features would be nice. It's still sounds a bit odd to me that you have to spend over $1679 for a Miele dishwasher just to get a Delay Start, when my GE from 2 years ago had it for $600, and my current Electrolux does at $1300. We like the look of the intergraded (SCSF), but its $200 more just for that. I'm not sure what the "Acoustic Function Monitor" and " Optical Function Monitor" are. I ask tomorrow when I call them to find out about the warranty. When I was at the Miele showroom last week, I brought some dishes, glasses, silverware, and a baking sheet to see how they would fit. The tallest glass that I had just cleared the cutlery rack when the middle rack was in the highest position. Lowering the middle rack gave the glass more room, but then the middle spray was closer to the dishes. We put some of the silverware in the cutlery tray, and it wasn't as difficult to use as my mom thought it would be.

I don't think they will argue with you. I've had pieces come damaged and they've sent replacements out immediately without asking for the broken piece back. These companies know what they're selling. Of course, with Nick and Dan's bunk beds, there was a split (not broken) rail and there was NO information whatsoever in the packaging to contact the manufacturer. I thought that was clever of them. I absolutely REFUSE to buy anymore, assemble-it-yourself, furniture. I have in the past and I have some decent pieces (it does usually look good) but the quality has deteriorated to the point where it's just not worth it anymore. There is always a drawer or something that goes wrong. And drawers are always incapable of actually holding anything besides cotton balls and those bookshelves can't hold the weight of books. Bookcases are literally held together by the cardboard backing (which is never big enough to get attached correctly). I find used furniture is a much better value. They really don't make things like they used to. I only bought the bunk beds because I couldn't find any used and I needed them ASAP. I am always looking for used old sturdy bookcases but they are very hard to find.

paulines - thanks for asking. I'm not sure. I gave them chicken which they didn't like. They both ate some though. Then stupidly I put out the kibble (the high quality brand) around midnight. I hope this wasn't a huge mistake. Bosco hasn't gone poo yet. I fear that I should have kept the chicken going for a few days more. Oh well. Should I take away the kibble and only let them eat the chicken? Or just see what happens? I don't think Bosco's feeling very well, he purred when he ate the kibble, and is now sleeping in his hiding place.

Just wanted to give an update. I contacted our builder rep who said to put in a written request to the warranty department on their website, which, by the way, says it could take between 30-60 days for the scheduled appointment. I did that last night & this morning I got a call from the plumber saying he will be at the house in 10 minutes. I quickly called a friend who has a key to our house & luckily, she was home, so she let him in. It was just a matter of the hot water line not being connected correctly. So all his fixed & amazingly fast I might add. Thanks to everyone who offered suggestions!