Yes, I was finally able to get him a reservation - non-stop to go back home.

After much slobbering over each other - Annie and Rascal said their goodbyes to Mario. Emma would have none of it.

I drove him to the airport and took him directly to board the flight. He threw his arms around the flight attendant and begged her - PLEASE, OH PLEASE, PUT ME IN FIRST CLASS.

Then he mumbled something about me being too cheap to buy him a first class ticket.

He nuzzled up to her neck and offered her some of his cherries.........and next thing you know she is buckling him in a first class seat and SERVING HIM A BEER.

He dismissed me with a wave - saying something like "see ya later" and started working on that beer.

He packed his bag himself - so lord only knows what is missing from this house! (or my freezer)