Kristen - safe travels - we posted at the same time so I missed your sad news. Our condolences on your loss.
M'ellen - you are lucky to be having time with those two wonderful LCT'ers in the Pacific Northwest. Give them a hug. I heard a speech coach speak on Friday about being real and approachable while speaking. While content is important (especially with that audience), the higest rated speakers are natural, genuine and loose.
