I hear you on the curtains - I got some fabric quoted for a set of panels in (two curtains - TWO) in our bedroom, cos I was being picky and didn't like anything in BB&B etc, the price wasn't quite as high as your buddies Ann I think the fabric was around $550 and then they needed to be made.

TBH it was the most stunning material but even I can't justify $750ish on a pair of curtains for the bedroom.

That was back in April, there is still nothing up at the windows!!!!!

Regarding contractors it's tough when you are over here and don't really know anyone to ask their opinion. I don't think we've ever (well maybe once and that went tits up) got someone in we haven't heard of by referral.

I still need to find an electrician to fix some stuff that hubby started - anyone a sparky?????

Really peed off with our contractor today, think we need to get shot now and we still need a sparky too, we have a bunch of wires that go nowhere (not live, so it's probably ok) and lights that we have no idea how to turn on. Today I hate this house

These curtains come free with a big case of beer.
http://m.flickr.com/photos/edge2400/...2614/lightbox/