Onyx says disc needs repair. But how?

New to Onyx, I just got it since Maintenance didn't work with a 10.7 upgrade... it says my startup disk (Macintosh HD) needs to be repaired, and to "restart while pressing command-R," then choose Disk Utility... I've tried restarting, pressing cmd+R at various points, but so far I get nothing. IS this something obvious that I've missed and should already know? thanks!

restart, when the screen goes off (black) then gray, just hold down the left CMD and R keys until it comes up to the repair screen.

hmmm... at what point should i see something? I've done this when black, and after it went to grey, but I end up with my usual desktop (though much slower)...

oh boy. It never occurred to me that holding command R on a bluetooth keyboard that is not yet connected is futile...duh!
done. thanks!

As you see wireless keyboard and mice do not work on Command or Option keys. Bluetooth has not loaded. Always keep a wired set on hand.

yeah I've got a MPB using the keyboard, magic trackpad & Thunderbolt display on the desk-- I realized what was wrong when I just disconnected from the peripherals and tried...