Hello, everybody.

Sorry I haven't been posting much this week, but I've been trying to finish a big story for our Sunday Viewpoint section. After I get that done, I'll be headed south to Florida for a couple of days.

But I'll be back to blogging in earnest next week. So enjoy the rest of this week and don't forget to pay your utility bills!

Hello, all,

I've been on vacation since last week, so that's why I haven't posted. Check back within the next day or two as I get caught up.

I was so sorry to hear yesterday that White House press secretary Tony Snow's colon cancer has recurred; Snow had surgery Monday, and will be out for "weeks," he said in a statement.

More interesting was what President Bush said in HIS statement: Snow's going to whip this thing, and we'll keep him in our prayers. No discussion of his leaving or quitting his job. In fact, his replacement, Dana Perino, mentions how much the press office looks forward to Snow's return.

I know they are different people in different situations, but did anyone else notice how totally different the public reactions seem to be? With Elizabeth Edwards, folks, including Katie Couric on "60 Minutes," seemed to expect she'd call off her husband's presidential campaign, and go home to die. No such reaction for Snow, who, from what I've read, might have a tougher time of his treatment, and whose long-term prospects are much more uncertain.

Be sure to look for my story tomorrow in The CA. I talked to survivors of metastatic cancer -- they have LOTS to say about the country's reaction to Elizabeth Edwards. I'll look forward to your comments.

Was scrolling through the channels last night after my exercise class and came across "Workout" on Bravo.

It's a reality show, I think in it's second season, about a fitness studio in Los Angeles. It's really like watching a train wreck. Not like any gym I've been in.

The trainers are the focus, and I have to say, if you're squeamish about "unusual" relationships, don't watch it.

Was scrolling through the channels last night after my exercise class and came across “Workout” on Bravo.

It’s a reality show, I think in it’s second season, about a fitness studio in Los Angeles. It’s really like watching a train wreck. Not like any gym I’ve been in.

The trainers are the focus, and I have to say, if you’re squeamish about “unusual” relationships, don’t watch it.

But if you’re an avid exerciser like me, it’s sort of interesting. I just kept thinking when do these folks have time to work out? And, boy, I would be so self-conscious there. I know my way around a gym, but I’d sign up and never go, there.

So, how about you? Have you watched it? Like it or loathe it? Would you exercise there?

In my Sunday column I wondered what's appropriate for a woman in her mid-30s? Should I cut my hair to my nape? Are those crow's feet? Can I still wear cheery underpants?

Oh, for a guidebook to this new phase of my life. But who needs a guidebok when so many readers offered sound advice? Here's a sampling of the comments:

From a 48-year-old woman: Laugh a lot, take care of yourself, stay active and involved in life, and NEVER give up. It sounds really simple, doesn't it? You want to wear Wonder Woman panties, I say go for it!!!... I never plan to cut my hair, wear dowdy matronly clothes or stop living... The only tomorrow you really have to be concerned with is where your eternity is going to be spent.

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