Barry, I have just returned from a trip away (minus kilt but I shall be sporting it on New Year's Eve). I thought this thread would have died long ago .... obviously has more staying power than I thought. First of all thanks for your offer of help. A man of your size would be a more than able deputy. Maybe at Loon Mountain next year?

Jeri, you understand what it is all about. And I in return have a much deeper understanding of the sexual harassment that women have experienced for centuries.

Carol, I am not sure that it is the accent. I have almost lost mine after living in the States for two years. Barry Finn will tell you, I sound like a Harvard frat boy.

Morticia, I dont know what the Gaelic for "Kharma" is, but you could be right, these things are sent to try us, and maybe it is indeed just reward return for Andy Stewart et al (Alexander Brothers, anyone remember them? )

Paddymac, there are times I wish I would wake up and find it is indeed a flight of fancy ..........

The one bright ray of sunshine in all this is that 'Spaw has refrained from posting one of his sceptical compositions. I have always said he is a man of deep sensitivity, and it is indeed heartening that he obviously sympathizes with my plight.

AND FINALLY I have just heard on the news that Madonna is going to my own home town of Dornoch in the Scottish Highlands to get married. Now, doesn't that tell you something ????????

Murray