/m283 Sam, thanks for the input. Unfortunately I think I'm actually going to have to get a new computer first! This one appears to be in its death throes. Any advice from you or anyone else on a dependable desktop?

I also have some sad news. My beloved Mollie, whom I've spoken of so often through the years, passed away yesterday morning. She had been through some illnesses recently and Sunday morning it was obvious she had worsened quite a bit so we made the decision to end her suffering. She gave us an incredible amount of joy and was a vital part of our family, so we're really down right now. Her little "brother" Rainer was extremely attached to her so he's depressed too. Mark and I are trying to make sure we give him lots to do to keep his mind active and help him bounce back. Fortunately for dogs, they're able to get through this more quickly than humans can.