Hi mg,
If you're only going to be there another 2-3 years I wouldn't bother with hedges either...but...as for no.2 ... hedges actually preserve wood from weather rot so they're a compliment to the stain...but I would go with pre-treated wood anyways.Presently: on the computer taking a break.
Kids: just opened three more Christmas presents I bought today...a very large teddy bear each, lil' brats spring party bags ( dolls n' stuff ) each, a birthstone necklace ( to replace the watch that I took back because it was tooooo big ) and wood jewelery box for Sarah, and pet shop/igloo set cats for Shari.
Listening: in the background I have the T.V. on...TBS I think.
OH...and I bought myself some new slippers...old ones were getting pretty beat up :D
Eg ;)