thanks again, guys. really do appreciate all the input. well, we decided to do a couple of things. the wife found a 3¢ per minute plan with no additional fees -- can't for the life of me remember the name of it (i'll ask her tomorrow) -- to sign up for. basically they bill you online, and you pay it online, so that's how they can save a bit.

we're also headed to sam's club to pick up a card there. i guess they have a cheapie one with no fees.

if/when our situation changes and i get another cell phone plan and she finally foregoes the old landline connection on her computer (when it lives again), i'm sure we'll be looking around again. but for now we're all set and happy with the choices.

THANKS AGAIN! you guys are terrific.