just a tip

if you ever have plans to go visit someone's home and you are ill--it doesn't matter if it is a holiday or dinner party or what have you--DO NOT GO. call them and tell them you are sick. do not just show up without warning and expect them to happily accept your illness as they would a hostess gift. cancelling the day before may be inconvenient, but not nearly as inconvenient as a week with the flu and having to miss work during quarter end.