Question for Upgrade to Ubuntu 9.10, from Ubuntu 9.04

[Jay Mistry]

I would like to upgrade from Ubuntu 9.04 that I am currently using
with Windows XP, by using the Windows bootloader to boot into Ubuntu.
For upgrade to 9.10 from 9.04, I would like to know about:

- Is it ok to simply format the / (root) partition and leave /home as
it is (since there are documents, pictures, etc in /home) and then
install the new Ub 9.10 in the formatted / (root) partn. ?

- Will there be any problem with the new GRUB2 in booting from the
Windows bootloader ? Presenty I am using the Windows bootloader to
boot into Ub 9.04, with GRUB (old) located in the MBR of / (root)
partition  - without any problem.

Thanks,

Jay