Thanks for all the considerate replies... we went with one of the tables from overstock.com (thanks creede; with a 20% coupon too!). This one...

http://overstock.com/?page=proframeprod_id=1775962

Very pleased with it, btw. Heavy, substantial feeling. Thick gauge aluminum legs. Looks/feels like one of those much more expensive models. I'm guessing it will last, we'll see (gotta keep that wood top oiled).

Thanks again,
Michigan Mod

On a related topic, I've been looking to purchase one of the retro-styled round, flat, adjustable shade umbrellas that I've seen lately. I don't know what they are called, which makes it that much more difficult to find on the internet... Does anyone know what these are called and/or where I can purchase one?

http://www.modernica.net/browseProducts.asp?Catid=1004#

If anyone is interested, we've opened a website that discusses patio wrought iron furniture and other backyard creations. We're at http://patiowroughtiron.myniche.biz and we're fairly new and getting more content up.

I noticed you were talking about aluminum made furniture. Do you think this is preferable to wrought iron? I was just wondering what the consensus was.

Erich