a little late in response - but I am back up and running. I replaced the brake hoses first but there was no improvement. I even cut one of the old ones in half to see the condition of the inside - which was fun. But a new caliper for each rear wheel and I'm back in business. What a difference! it no longer feels like I'm driving with the parking brake on thanks for all the help.

on a side note - I have a horrible rattle that comes from the passender side near the firewall. I have heard that this is common with blazers and just needs a replacement washer on the bolt that holds the hood on. Any truth to this?