Karen, I don't think anyone could have put it better than you just did!! Whatever happened in your past has made you into the really warm, thoughtful and very funny person that you are today! I just love this place with all of its people and you are one of my favorites (and so is Marius! LOL! and of course Scooter too [the boy with *the look!*!] LOL! Anyway, it's sad but true. Some people never do grow up and I think they must be most miserable. I really do think that the most critical mean people must have had very little love and affection growing up, and yes, maybe were not even allowed to have pets (like you just mentioned)! When you live with an animal who gives you unconditional love, that certainly sets an example for us humans. OK, I'm off the soap box now!