I have the following code. I want it just to use InStr to find if a certain expression is contained within the cell, and if so perform a simple highlight action then add the date to the end of the cell's text.

used in the Sheet 'Change' event:
    If Target.Cells.Column = 1 And InStr(Target.Cells.Value,"to be opened") > 0  Then
        ActiveCell.Offset(0, 1).Interior.ColorIndex = 45
        ActiveCell.Value = ActiveCell.Value & " " & Now
        Target.Cells.Interior.ColorIndex = 0
    End If
but i just get the cell filled up with the current date/time until it can't fit anymore repeats

i've tried using target.cells.value instead of activecell, and declaring a variable with the instr value, or using a variable with the cell value inside the InStr syntax, but it always happens

i'm a bit confused

anyone know what's going on?

appreciate any help