John, best of luck with your plantings! I would suggest the more tender succulents - like echeveria, which would do amazing things for you in your zone, without any fuss!! Bright indirect sunlight is perfect! There are also many sedums from Mexico/central america which are tender, and do well in your zone. Semps for you would be marginal, due to heat, so in your hotter summers they'd need extra attention, but in a more cooler summer they'd be great! And during winter they'd be fine there! All of these plants would want fast draining soil!! You'll love ATP - we're a friendly group - like Lynn says - photos please, before and after are fine! Photos of your pots and artwork would be great