Greetings, Family & Friends,

The deadline is near. I rushed back from Austin yesterday to get my yard in order and to clean my garage. I drove to Portland to visit with my "other Mother," Willie Belle Buck, and had a lovely time. We even went to a tea party with real scones!

All the last minute obligations have been completed: doctors' appointment;, extra shopping (still no teddy bear replacement for A; a pedicure with Anthony at Mimi's; last minute research meetings; good-byes to the TAMUCC colleagues; and final weighing of the ceremonial suitcases. May I say I had to unpack to reach the allotted 61 pounds? The carry-on handbag and suitcase are getting heavier, but I cannot leave the Valentine M&Ms and napkins behind.

It has been terribly foggy and the weatherman says watch out for floods overnight, but the taxi is picking me up at 9:15 AM tomorrow.

Later...from TAIWAN!