[infocus]

Thanks everyone. I called my Visa customer service, and without giving my name or account info, I told them I was a customer and asked them if they would reduce my credit limit if my credit got bad. I explained the whole situation, and told them I had some money coming and was trying to decide whether to pay off some debt or keep it for emergencies. The guy was really nice and said yes, if there were late payments or whatever on my credit report, they probably would reduce my credit limit. So I guess that answers my question - that first check is going in the bank, or under my mattress if necessary (just kidding!) so I have something for emergencies. I will continue to make my minimum payments, and the next two lump sums I get will go to paying down the credit card debt. I will do the best I can with what I can control, and hope for the best with the things that are out of my control.

Thanks again everyone.