Well, the only reason why I put the heat mat in the bin is because mine is a weak one. It does not have a thermastat either. But I have taking the temps and it was still in the 70's inside. But then I should caution~~~~~ Depending how hot your heat mat gets, will determin if your mat should be in or out of the bin! I only had mine in the bin since it put off a very low heat and did not have much affect on the outside when I tried it. SO PLEASE TEST YOUR HEAT MAT TEMPS when deciding to put your mat in or outside your bin! Thanks for pointing that out to me :) Christy

If it has been outside all this time, I would probably allow the leaves to fall off naturally, allowing it to go dormant. Then I'd place it in an unheated garage where it will remain dormant until next spring, watering only once a month or so, just to keep it from completely drying out.

Cali - Dubois, Pa in north central Pa. Island - this is the 2nd time in 3 years my banana has seen snow on it with green leaves. Brooklyn - I get a lot of comments, slow downs, drive bys and double takes. I also end of giving a lot of tours and a lot of plants and cuttings away which would otherwise be wasted.

Congrats and enjoy turning your new house into a home! SS or black appliances would definitely work with the maple, but making the switch to Energy Star would be low on my priority if the appliances are in decent shape. First thing I'd change is the wall color, and agree with Teacats that a white like BM White Linen would be great but could go with a deeper Bone White. I think the white appliances will look much nicer and like they belong. If you prefer a light blue or other color, that could also look nice. Whatever makes you and your family feel optimistic and says "home", but that would not be most shades of green for me. If you're the type that can be happy working with your existing kitchen, wander over to the kitchen forum for inspiration on how small changes can have big impacts, but don't go there if you're likely to succumb to kitchen envy as many have big budget kitchens. Since design is an aspect of what I've been involved with professionally and I really enjoy decor, I can look at and appreciate lots of different styles, knowing they wouldn't work for me. I like your existing, and know with a few updates like new blinds, paint and adding art, I'd love it! I don't know that bar seating will be so great for your son or for family communication while dining, so I'd opt for an expandable pedestal round table or an expandable square under the chandie and not go with a fan. Could you be happy with a small loveseat and one or two comfy chairs in the adjacent carpeted area serving as your family room? If you'll use the computer station, fine; but if it doesn't suit your needs, you can always take it out. Patching the walls is minor. Many here have found great quality, solid or veneered furniture that's far superior to much that's mass-produced today, on Craigs List, ebay, estate sales, consignment shops and Goodwill. Trick is to take your time adding wonderful pieces as you find them rather than trying to get all the furniture at once. Happy nesting!