Finally, I'm singing 'Amazing Grace'.
     My machine now correctly dual-boots using lilo.
     It runs Windows 95 and Debian.

     Here's how I set up lilo (i'm lazy & lucky)...
     I copied the lilo.conf file from my angelina (my dual-boot laptop) and
     changed the hard drive identifiers so that they're correct for the sandra box. 
     then i ran the lilo program.  
     Finally, I rebooted, and walla, it works! sweet!