These are great posts, with lots of good information. Chefmama, thanks for the heads up about being able to buy the Martenelli with JoAnn's sale - I just did it too! Also replaced my omnigrid ruler by ordering an Olfa. I've never liked all those yellow grids on the omnigrid.
i didn't know that about hysterectomy/early menopause being linked to osteo arthritis...I hope yours stays manageable.