We were getting quite a bit of storm and rain activity from Tropical Storm Fay last week and unfortunately a lightning strike hit our house.  We lost our computer modem and printer, big screen television, DVD player, DVR receiver for the television, security system for the house and the most devastating loss - our Internet satellite and modem that we need to get online since we live so far out in the country.  Its been like we're in mourning around the house, you just don't realize how much a part of your life the Internet is until you lose it, especially for us since we work online.  Its been a little over a week that we've basically been unemployed and that can be a serious hit for your mental attitude. 

Getting back online has been a major hurdle since lightning is an "act of god" and not covered by anything, and HughesNet (our Internet provider) is apparently terribly backed up for both new installs and repairs.  Its been such an ordeal getting any kind of satisfaction that I've actually become pretty friendly with the nicest lady named Ellen who works for Digital Satellite Connections.  She put up with a litany of questions from me, numerous phonecalls, and one really gripey (that's the polite explanation) phonecall from my husband, and STILL was so gracious and helpful as to work us in to an already overbooked schedule.  THANK YOU ELLEN!!!  You're the best   And I have to thank Aaron also, the super friendly installer who's actually been out here three times now over the course of the years.   Even though he said "you might be a redneck if you use your big screen as a tv stand" when he came into the living room

Sooooo glad to be back online and back in business!  Whew - got some catching up to do!