MP - wow, massive congratulations! How very exciting, and isn't it amazing how all your well-laid plans have suddenly been turned around. BTW we all know how capable you are and you will absolutely take the learning curve in your stride. I don't think any topic is too off-topic for this thread anymore (speaking as Official Thread Queen of Off-Topic here ). I think we've got a special exemption cos the mods know we play nice in here .

Cass, you sure sound like you're enjoying the place a bit more now. Your daytrip to paradise cove sounds awesome - I do love a celebrity sighting and KS is usually so reticent so that'd be why all the interest. Far out at the medical "experience" - suddenly everything I"ve ever heard about health insurance and health service provision in the US makes sense. Heartbreaking for many and OTT service provision costing OTT $$ for others.

Arte, that's great about the principal, you'll have to report back after you've cornered him at the morning tea.

Oh, and I bought my lotto ticket too. In fact I was only just thinking on Thurs about my long held dream of a thread-family get together. Maybe it's a SIGN??!