Dear Lynns,
Great idea to relieve some of our sorrow! I got a cat almost 7 years ago because the month before that my boyfriend was tragically murdered and I needed something to nurture (since I am good like that). My son and I were just devastated and I thought it would be great to finally have a pet. We lived in apts and could never have pets. His name is Tigger and he is grey with black spots and black lines on him. I never had a cat before him so I did not know what to expect. He is so great and acts just like a dog!! He sleeps on the foot of my bed every night and in the morning I find him lying next to me or I pretend I am asleep and find him checking on my breathing by being close to me or putting his paw lightly on my bottom lip. He has been such a blessing to me and I know I would never have been able to move on with my life had it not been for him. Plus, now with the RSD he calms me down when my pain is real bad. I just adore him.

About a year ago my son decided to get a Chihuahua/Pomeranian Mix puppy (but mostly Chihuahua) with his girlfriend. They lasted a month and I got him full-time because they broke up. Well, he has turned out to be another love of my life. He is my PT because he gets me up out of bed every few hours and makes me walk outside. He is lying across my lap right now. Now, I have my two babies in my bed each night. Since I am single it is a comfort to have Buddy sleeping next to me. He barks at everything so he is a great watchdog too. I feel so much more secure while he is on duty.

The best part of my day (I know this is sad but it is my life) is when the dog chases the cat up and down the condo (We call this crazy puppy time). They are so funny to watch. Then, the cat lies on his back and the dog nips at his paws. They do this for about 15 mins. then both like to take a nap. Buddy keeps Tigger in shape and when Tigger has had enough he lets Buddy know by either playfully biting him or by giving him the evil cat eye to stop. They are very entertaining. My son tell me I need a life and I tell him "Well, you stay in the house for five years in agony and tell me how you would stay sane."

I just adore my best friends and would be in an asylum somewhere if it were not for them. They get me through each day. Thanks for the idea.
kathy d