ita, it makes me furious that you hurt when there are so many people in the world who ought to hurt and don't. I wish there was something I could do that would help even a little bit. Not as much as you do, I'm sure, but man do I wish it.

OK, these gale force winds can fucking go away now. Also, I've been hearing ominous creaking sounds from my not too stable already porch. I know I didn't pay for the gas grill that's sitting out there, but I really don't want to have to move it or deal with digging it out if the porch roof collapses like it sounds like it's thinking about doing.

Erg, wishing you no falling down. That's creepy.

Years ago, I patronized this czech club that made the most awesome spinach hazelnut burger patties. I haven't had the sublime delight since. I just had some spinach pancake things that I got at the Giant during the storm. They were ok, but not perfect. But it's inspired me. So, presuming a car, I'm going to try to make them. What do people think of 3/4 spinach, 1/4 ground up hazelnuts by volume, lots of parmesean, garlic, breading the patties in toasted crumbs and then baking. Do I need to add flour? Maybe some mashed potatos? I'm concerned about the cohesive properties.

ita, I can't do anything about the headaches but I tried to help a little with the next time you crave certain beverages. Did you happen to get a package yesterday (USPS said it was delivered)? I'm really hoping the contents remained intact.

Aurelia, I didn't get any mail today, and I mean that literally-- not even any ads. I think our mailman decided to take a day off.

That's annoying, Lee. ita's package had to travel ground, so I expected it to take longer. Yours should've been there mid-week.

Aurelia, I did get it, but I got distracted and haven't opened it yet! I mean, I'm assuming that no one else was sending me stuff from your part of the world. I shall open it now, and put stuff in the fridge.

OMG, local news is doing a piece on HOW GROSS it is to take your shoes off in security and walk through other people's foot scum. (Note: I picked up an icky case of athlete's foot at thanksgiving after never having it, but it appeared hours after having to barefoot through security. So stinky and ick. )

I always walk through in socks. My feet get too cold on airplanes so I always wear them.

Aurelia! Thanks! All contents arrived intact, and I'm six bottles squared away for my next down-home drink craving. And just the right flavours too.

sara, stop overthinking it. Do what is comfortable to you. However, if you get stranded somewhere, I'm not that far away and I have no problem helping you out.

ita, "I'm sorry" is so damned inadequate, but it's still very true. It's not right that you have to go through this. I hope you can find some relief very soon, in any form.

So how crazy am I if I go to IKEA this weekend? I can't decide whether Baltimore or College Park will be busier.