Thanks Julie for making it clear that sanding gives hope to remove lovingly-deposited pet fur.  It never occured to me to leave it there until after baking - always tend to think towards perfect BEFORE hitting the oven.

Off to the groomer to cut down on big, bold, long, thick, Chocolate Lab hair!   

Linelle:

During my darkest hour, my cats stayed close to me and never did that aloof thing that I think is a myth anyway. My cats have earned completed dictatorship over my house. I am their helpless and obedient servant.

We are getting fiercely off topic, but...  when ever I am feeling very bad, if I lay down on the bed one kitty will come and wash my face and another will curl up behind my knees...  our third kitty probably meets the aloof description -- she loves to play with fetch with those fluffballs that come in catnip jars, and she is downright bossy when she wants the maid (aka me)  to come and fix something in her room (aka my studio) but she really doesn't like to be touched.  SHe had a rough kittenhood...

Hi Everyone,  I know I kind of took you all off topic a bit...but I wanted to thank you for your responses and also let you know that I am doing GREAT!!!!  I am going to get back into some jewelry making over the next while and will definitely contact this site for help if and when I get stuck or have questions.

I feel very comfortable with everyone here and look forward to learning more hints and tips on jewelry from your posts. 

Thanks again!

June