Funny--if I search as recommended above--I can open those threads that turn up under a specific search within quotes! If you're reading this, then the problem must be fixed! :o)

I've seen this other places too. Squidoo is the only one I can think of off the top of my head. It can be distracting, but understand why they have to do it. Providing an option to opt out is nice, but I probably won't - just don't cursor over the words and it's not a big deal for me. With social media (where transparent identities are not only acceptable but expected) competing for attention and even quality content, it's probably getting tougher to maintain a site so it can function and stay relevant.

Thank you all so much for great ideas and comments. Herbflavor thanks, again...you've been so helpful every time I post! I will definitly think about widening the "u". Eliminating the 4th seat would be a big compromise bc I have 3 kids and my dh works late a lot so I picture us eating there together a lot. But I usually eat standing up anyway so...?! That half of the door is fixed anyway so I think I could maybe still keep a seat there. I was concerned about widening the U too much though because I want to keep a comfortable path to the sliders between seats at peninsula and seats at dining table. But you think I do have enough room to go close to end of sliders? Question...Do I really need the Ref panels? They add 3". I have a wall on one side and a full height turned cabinet on other side. Could I just have the cabinets above the Ref attached to the wall on one side and the pantry cabinet on other side? I'd gain 3" of clearance around the island pinchpoint, worth it? No one has mentioned my cooktop shouldn't be within 4.5" of corner, so I'm thinking it's ok? Sena thanks, I do think I'm going to need to put something in my island. Anyone think I could just have 1 row of deep drawers along bottom of island, then finished open shelf above them, so the island/work table is like half "open"?

Yes, I had mentioned that clustering related garden forums was a desirable thing. One forum missing there still is Soil and Compost...and please remove giant vegetables