Tamar,
I think your solution worked (I haven't hit all actions that caused the behaviour I spoke of).
I normally invoke vfp8.exe with my shortcut setting current directory to the directory of the application project .PJX file. Then in Command Window I type: 'modify project dd.pjx' (without NOWAIT, which you said is my problem; I think you're right).
Thanks again.
Fred Z
Don