Ouch! Diane I was so afraid of "Mother" back in those days! Although I appreciated her ability to knock heads together and maintain order. I never would have guessed. :-)

I hear you about Sammy. I have the same problem with my 9 year old Beagle Harley, whom I'm sure I've talked about before. We have found a place that nannies your pets which seems to work.

Yes, cats are a trip, aren't they? And Sammy isn't exactly a young fellow, so we're taking care. One day I'll explain the steps we take to keep him as youthful as possible; has to do with specially ordered food, organic this and that, and liquid vitamins.

Good to see you, Kim. It's always impressive, how much you're accomplishing.

I appreciate the loyalty to your cat, Sammy. Whenever we go away, its hard on the dog and 3 cats. The cats don't mind it when the dog goes to the "doggie spa". They love to see him go away. But when we come home, the cats act as if it's THEIR house now and we're imposters, even though I make careful arrangements to have friends and family come by to feed and play with them.