Wow, it wouldn't let me post. I'll try again...
Sportsdude, why did your family let you off the hook?
As far as shade plants under cedar, what is your climate like? How cold does it get during the winter? How many days of frost do you usually get I mean, and what's the lowest temp you usually have to suffer through?
I'll do my best, but I'll bet Gopher could give you a better idea!