OMG my phone is going nuts. It booted up and damned if if isnt downloading 40 messages (ok 41). It appears to be working. I am so happy about this. I will continue to check it out but for now I am getting texts. I appreciate your help so much on this. I will keep you informed. YOU ARE THE MAN
For the record - I think when I flashed the xtrSense it did a more complete wipe or something. The reason I believe this is that with all the other ROMS I flashed they never asked for my wireless password again; this one did. There must have been SOMETHING which this flash cleared that allowed the texts to come in. Thanks again for all the help.
download handcent. then hit menu and there you go, voice option. i don't personally use this option because my thick southern drawl seems to get in the way.