Hopefully you are starting to get back into your routine. I suspect you have a lot ahead of you, but I've been thinking of you.
FYI: IF (know its a big if) you think you may be able to attend the Midwest Meeting, I have a 15 seat passenger van and will take passengers! Just a thought. No problem picking you up and dropping you off (Wifey is welcome also). My schedule is good for any departure/return.
I did both the tube and the blank. It was a tight fit, but it made a big difference. No shadows, no glue visible, the extra minutes was well worth it. I actually drilled 6 Sierras, painted, left overnight and glued the next day with epoxy. Turned one the next 6 days.
These blanks are nice to work with, but ever so slightly translucent, so I'll take the time to paint!