UPDATE: Wow. I just talked to the Apple tech guy and he said that the problem I'm having is a known issue for my model. So the fix is free! I'm just laughing. All my fretting. Of course I'll be offline for a WHOLE WEEK my lord but the experience will be interesting, and when I come back I'll note my experiences and thoughts, if they're worth noting.

What is worth noting is that we (I?) have come to the point where being "offline" for a week is notable! Welcome to the future, Macintoshaca!

Big thanks to Cero for even asking how much the bill was. And for those who expressed concern, in their own blogs, or in my comments. Ah. I love happy endings.

See you in una semana or so.