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In the very early years of writing this column, I attended a gardening function, meeting and speaking with other gardeners and exchanging information and ideas.

It’s that time of year when permission is granted to pull out all the stops. Even the most minimalist among us are tempted to add some sparkle and light and seasonal trimmings.

Dear Reena: I have laminate flooring in my living room and leather furniture. Every time we sit down, the seating slides a bit. How can I keep them from sliding? Randy Purchase rubber gripper pads; they stop furniture from sliding.

Dear Helen: I’m often intrigued by the vegetable, herb and flower varieties you describe. My question: What catalogues do you use to find new and interesting varieties? E.P. Here is a basic roster of catalogues that I’ve used regularly for years.

Dear Tony: We are at an impasse with our strata council over Christmas trees.

Dear Reena: I have taken on the daunting task of removing carpeting from my basement floor. The carpet came up like a dream, but the foam underneath is stuck to the concrete.

I may have discovered the secret of perpetual life, or close to it, horticultural style. In the fall of last year, I seeded a large pot with mizuna, a lacy Asian green vegetable that I relish for its lightly tart flavour.

Dear Debbie: Our kitchen is desperate for a reno, but our budget is limited. Lots of action with a young family. We replaced the fridge and stove with white ones. I want a bright, happy space.

Home-renovation stories are rarely without their dark moments — delays, frustrations, regrets. So it’s delightful to hear a homeowner whose experience was purely positive.

Two-storey penthouse atop Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver’s Coal Harbour hasn’t sold since January, and is reduced to $29.9 million