Thanks for the replies
Schraders weren't working - I was getting lots of flats - then again this is not an auspicious start for the Presta's (less than 100 miles)
yes the little valve was tightened
there is a rug rat but she doesn't get into the basement
maybe it is a bad tube - I just checked the bike in my office and the tire is getting softer - must be a really slow puncture or something to get me 10 miles to work with no noticeable loss in pressure.....
anyhoo I have a spare tube in my bag - I guess I'll fix it before I leave the office and hope I don't get another flat on this freezing DC day