I agree, but it looks so weird. Not just because of what I'm accustomed to (because I always have to think about it) but because the comma just sort of dangles when its outside an endquote.

Given that putting the comma in the quotes looks weird to me (just as the serial comma looks to me like the author has a stammer), I'm going with, it is just what one is accustomed to. 

No response from her. Zero.

Yeah, that's a sucky (lack of) response. I'm sorry, Steph. 

First off, Kate, I'm so happy for you! I had no idea the wedding was so soon--congrats!

In less happy news, I got a bill from the hospital today. Apparently the July gall bladder surgery that started this whole nightmare has a copay of $1500, which we now owe. So much for having a job with benefits so I don't have to worry about going to the hospital when we need to.

Aims, you may have my brother. I already called Jason Dohring.

KATE! So exciting!

Oh, Pix, UGH.

Pix, that could be a mistake, maybe?? Call and see? Sorry I can't call for you. I just remember so many times I've heard of insurance companies making mistakes.

It wasn't a mistake. I called and check, and apparently we are only covered 80% on surgical procedures. The $1500 is the remaining 20% of the reduced HMO cost. I know that's still so much better than no insurance, but I just don't know where the money is going to come from, and that pretty much nixes my plan to recertify with National Boards this year. That's an additional $1200. It just sucks to have to make these choices. I only have a two year window to recertify or I lose it completely, and I'd hoped to do it this year. Sigh.

Usually hospitals will work out payment plans.

80/20 is pretty standard. That's what we pay. Liv's penny escapade cost us $3K after insurance. She made the mistake of swallowing that sucker so early in the year--before we met our deductible.

Pix, totally make a payment arrangement. My hospital will make arrangements as low as $25 a month. Most hospitals are willing to work with you.

Typo Boy and vw are right. Ask for a payment plan.

I accidentally spray painted my hand metallic green, giving it a startling Visitor look.

I am being 3 years old and I know it. I had told my cousin and the relative that's doing all the arrangements that I was going to visit him yesterday in the hospital. He was supposed to be moved some time this week to a rehab facility, so he can get in good enough shape for chemo. I got ready to go yesterday, then called and called and finally called to get the floor nurse, only to find out he had already been moved. Now I'm waiting to see when anyone is going to tell me about it.

I know I'm being petty, but for the last couple of weeks, my irritable bowel has turned into pissed-off-all-the-time bowel and I'm just weary of it all.