Annie,
I am smiling as I have this picture of you logging on, looking at this thread and seriously wondering if they are talking about someone else:). I get the whole compliment thing, but this recognition is true and so well deserved.
When you write, what comes through is the honest, down-to-earth, very approachable, and very humorous person who leaves a little bit of a warm place for all who read to cozy up to. There is the wisdom and the sound advice of someone who has lived through the horrors of life, but come out with grace, understanding, and a love of life.
Annie, for myself, when I have been in places so dark and hope does not seem to exist, your genuine warmth and kindness have rekindled that hope on more occasions than I can remember. If that is not a form of genius, then I don't know what is.
BTW, don't worry about the math, that is why we have fingers, toes, and calculators!
Deb