My parents BEGGED me to stay at home, to avoid rent, etc (save for my future). Before they got ill, I had all the freedom in the world. No curfews, ever, a gazillion friends, never home (a phone call to say I was safe was sufficient).

When I got Cody, I knew he was MY dog and anything they did for him, was as a favor for me. I also thought they owed me payback for all I gave up for them. Plus, he was a family member.

I do not regret one thing (well, almost), but if I lived my life over, I'd be OUT OUT OUT! The difference between my "lived away from home" friends and those of us who dutifully stayed home is astounding.

I'm ranting on to tell you, you're not alone. I know how you feel, believe me. You are like me, giving in to forgo arguments. Bless you for staying with Hank. However, I'm guessing that your mother used guilt tactics to make you do it. Forgive me for admonishing your mom. but to give you such short notice, on a birthday weekend, is rude. It's called a boarding kennel, or pet sitter. I understand how your internal anger is raging havoc with you and Mike, 'cause it has to come out someplace, and it's with Mike. IMO, guys don't get the same crap that girls do, hence, very little "I get it". If I was my brother, my folks would never blink an eyelash.

Please try and have a Happy 1/4 century! I hope for innocent- in- all- this- Hank, you see it as a un-regretable situation.