James,

Don't get depressed, it is all part of life and if viewed correctly, from
just a little distance (like that provided by the Internet) it is pretty
funny.  Some of the chuckles I had over the last few days rival those I get
with Art's succinct comments.

As for shell related.  I just used some clay to make a replica of
Thalassocyon bonus -- a very rare fig shell.  The result looks very much
like preColumbian art, done by a child, a non-artistic child, a non-artistic
child with bad eye sight... well you get the idea.  Was fun though.  Gives
one lots of respect for the life-like sculptures we saw at COA in
Louisville.  Can't remember the name of the gal who did them but they were
great.

Tom Eichhorst in New Mexico, USA