It's hardly a challenge.(ETA: Making jokes about Cameron and Brown, that is. AKA Constipated and Shifty.)

"British people are too polite and reserved to get anything done in a coalition". I actually read that in a paper the other day.

These people must not have watched any Premier League games lately.

I'm still a little shaky, and there is still eau de smoke permeating my house but, LORD, I am relieved.

I posted the follow up from my friend's computer, down the street. The little guy and I went there to breathe for a while and let the worst of the smoke dissipate.

The cat and dog are okay, the neighbor is fine, but her office and upstairs are pretty much destroyed.

It is a testament to how great this neighborhood is, that I walked out of my friends' consignment shop and three people rushed up to check if we were okay. Some of them I don't know very well, but everyone seems to know where I live!

As I was rushing out of here, I had one of those 'this is it' moments...the ones where you have to make big decisions really quickly. I answered the 'what would you grab' question by taking only Bartleby's park bag...which had some kibble in it, and just so happened to have my wallet in as we had gone to the bank this morning.

Mystery solved, though with a big fat, 'duh.'

What is important to me? HE is important to me...and that's about it.

If I weren't so amped up, I might take a nap. I am simultaneously exhausted and charged. And, did I mention grateful? WAY grateful.

Now to check on renter's insurance...which I have not had for years. Any favored companies among us?

t /frazzled babbling

Thank you, Sparky and smonster, for offering help. It warms my heart to know that there are folks 'out there' for us.

Seriously. One never thinks about how important connections are until your life flashes before you eyes.

bonny, you might try whoever you have your car insurance through.

{{bonny}}. I'm glad it's over, and hope you'll be able to rest soon.

"British people are too polite and reserved to get anything done in a coalition". I actually read that in a paper the other day.

This might be the time to remind everyone that since the Magna Carta, Britain never had a revolution. Oh, and not that I agree with the statement from the article.

bonny, you might try whoever you have your car insurance through.

I don't have any other insurance!

Bonny, renter's insurance is key for situations just like this. Call me a cynic, but I don't trust my neighbors to be as careful as I am :) I have mine through USAA, but unless you were in the service or a dependent of someone honorably discharged, you aren't eligible.

We have gnats. Not just like "Oh, look,a gnat." Like Gnat Sharks and Gnat Jets. Serious gnats. Does anybody know anything that will drive them away? Or at least keep them from hanging out on my food. Cause I find that really gross and I can't eat and shoo at the same time.

Another resume and cover letter sent out, for a decent job. Not one I'm super excited about, but there might be a chance to travel to a sister program in Geneva. Woo!