[BriK]

I went through many of the same things recently so hopefully I can offer some considerations in attempt to be helpful (I know I welcomed tips when I was shopping).

- darker wood will more easily show dirt and scratches

- after shopping around a lot, we got all of our kitchen appliances at ApplianceSmart. We went with the whole suite of Frigidaire Gallery appliances in stainless steel. For fridge, micro, oven, and dishwasher, we paid as much as we would've for just the fridge and dishwasher somewhere else (ie, basically got the microwave and oven free)-- and that's even after updgrading to a french door refrigerator and double oven. And definitely spring for the french door refrigerator-- it makes a surprising difference.

- check out Steve's Blinds for window coverings-- best prices I've found and good quality