Can you all see me smiling, and hear me laughing?

It really is nice to have time to be here with all of you great people again! The messages above, as well as the numerous emails and PM's have made me truly realize what a wonderful group of friends I have here! You people are just the best!!!
Now, to answer a few of the questions, etc.
Our soft opening was indeed on 1/20 - and right on schedule. The small "catered event" mentioned above was "Family Night" for the families of all the employees, as well as some special invitations which were extended to folks like the Fire Department, Police Department and other local service agencies. It was the night before the official opening to the public.
FLL & Mac -Our "Grand Opening" is scheduled for February 8th, and toward the end of the week you should start seeing and hearing advertisements for it.
Mac - Do we deliver to Alton Bay? But of course we do! We can deliver anywhere in a 70 mile as-the-crow-flies radius, and I can also make accomodations to deliver further than that if the need arose.
FLL - wish I could help you with the "Pepper Discount" but that one's way beyond my authority.

I will, however, send you an email if I see any of those pumps you were eyeing go on clearance!
McD - Indeed it's amazing how many new procedures and policies I'm learning, and how many names are spinning around in my head! I'm absolutely loving it, though, and the rest of the staff think I'm insane because I'm smiling all the time!
R2B - It was gut-wrenching to say the least, but nonetheless a decision I had to make. So glad you and so many others understand the necessity.
SecondCurve - you made me blush!

Thank you.
SteveA - LOL!!!!! Did you come up with that yourself? Or did "she who must be obeyed" help out with that?
LIFR - get that list together and let's get your spring projects started!
RR - I'm allergic to shellfish, but I did take a break and have a huge bowl of ice cream!
IG - Hoping in a BIG WAY to see you and DRH and QL while you're visiting! Perhaps we can all do lunch?????
Mac - tell Mee "Thanks" and tell her I missed her too! Bet she's keeping all snuggly recently!
TR4 - nice to see you again, too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Where ya been?
Lin - It's amazing, baby! I'm sure I'll be seeing you over the warmer months. Give your Mom a hug for me, wouldya? What the heck - give one to the whole family for me!
SS - last but not least, Waldo says to tell you that if you come by looking for a hug, he'll be happy to give you one - just as long as you sit and have another awesome chat with him!