So off we go for a couple of days, and an urgent email arrives telling us of my paternal grandmother being hospitalized overseas for unknown causes...she was in the ICU, and not expected to make it. But, hey to a little old lady who's like 98 and a lifelong vegetarian, what's a little dehydration? She was released at the end of the week, so all the worry, planning for the worst were for naught, thank goodness. She's fine and back "home" now (she lives in a sort-of retirement community), and being looked after by some friends she once did a good turn for. (Pay it forward...)

Thanks a million for all your kind words and emails. I truly appreciate it.

Jo