Someday I will learn not to start typing a reply and leave it overnight to be lost

I hope you're finding ways to get outside without damaging your ankle or knee any further. It's *such* a bummer to injure yourself like that when you've recently gotten into the outdoor exercise habit. I agree with you - the fresh air makes a HUGE difference. Maybe slow microwalks or outdoor yoga or just sitting outside observing could have a little of the same effect?

This offer is their final offer. My friend was pretty clear on that. The initial agreement was between her and I. She didn't have permission (but she had authority). It was charged to her budget, her department.

I really hope that she is not upset with me. I can tell that she is frustrated with this whole thing. She has not replied to my emails and didn't pick up my call just now. They did want me to start on Monday. I said I would, but we are getting another huge storm and I really can't sign this contract the way it is. There's a line in there about providing free warranty service for a year after the engagement ends!

Do you think that you have talents or natural abilities? I am not sure about that stuff. I feel like my talent is saying that I want to do X and then doing it, where other people wouldn't. I feel like I am good at skills acquisition or 'faking it.' It makes it really hard for me to identify myself. I do X and Y, but I don't think of myself as an Xer or Yer. I don't know how common it is to feel this way?