I finally made it over, ignoring the threats, begging, and even the offer of 2 slightly used “Flame Hardened Crystals” (that was hard to give up).
It's been hectic for me recently but now life is more stable and I desire to rekindle the electronic companionship of many I've come to know and whose knowledge, wit, and joie de vivre I rely on to make it through the daily grind.