Here's to the many kind responders:

Corri: Gawd, do I know about muddling. I have a tendency to lapse into a depressed apathy when confronted with chronic issues that take two to solve. Keeping the pot stirred and dealing with whatever floats up (or occasionally explodes out) isn't fun, but it must be done if things are ever going to change. And the scariest part of all, is that we can't control the direction of the change since there are two people involved. I'm glad NOP decided to strap mondo-sized spoon in hand and step close to the boiling water. He's a tenacious guy. I admire tenacity and I see that trait in you.

Annette: There were times when the heat from my head could have melted metal - so I can understand when Corelle can not withstand the occasional unleashing of the maelstrom that is within!

Choc: Thanks for the kind words - and don't you have good taste in music? OTOH, we could have been one of the top ten national nominees for the SSM What Not to Do poster-couple of the decade.

HD: Bedroom? Has NOP mentioned the computer he's setting up in there? {Suddenly, the light dawns upon me...}

Honeypot: Many good thoughts and wishes on your upcoming event - I adored being a mom and would have had a houseful of children had nature allowed. Homeschooling was a very good thing for us.

MrsNOP -