I hope this finds everyone well. We have had some illness in the family but everyone is on the mend. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of my computer. It died. A quick and painless death. I have it at the 'puter doc who is trying for a resurrection. He says it appears to be fairly "terminal" at this point. I may have to buy a new one. That would be nice. That would also be impossible for me.

As it stands right now, folks...all my valuable records are on the old hard drive and unavailable to me. While I believe this is temporary, it is impossible for me to send out issues right now.

I have a HUGE favor to ask (actually, several!). Please bear with me as I work my way through this crisis. Also, please remove my name from your joke lists (those of you who send me them) and other non-essential mailings. Working 12-hour shifts makes getting to the library computer difficult for me, so my hotmail account is in a constant state of over-draft (much like my checking account right now after taking my children in to the doctor last week!!!). The last one is a toughie but here goes: if you have wanted to contribute to a2z but have been putting it off...now is an excellent time to do it, friends. I am at a total loss as to how to finance my computer repairs and/or purchase a replacement. Yes, this is MY problem. I do not believe it to be yours. But, we are family here and family helps family when times are tough. Times are tough.

I will remain in contact with you as best I can, given the logistics of getting to a computer. Some of you are remaining in contact with other a2z family members by using the QT link found in each issue. Go back through an old one and you can keep in touch with one another (and me, I hope!).

I miss all of you and appreciate your loving concern. Special thanks go to Charlie and Larry for checking on me, helping me cope and getting word to you. I will return as soon as humanly (and financially) possible.

Love to all,
Maggie