I have been a member of PT for just over a year. It is the only "forum" I belong to or chat on AT ALL. I don't need to go elsewhere; this is where I feel I belong. I have grown very fond of many people and their pets; I've hosted a party that I hope will be at least annual and I've learned how these PT people can pull you through a rough patch. Yes, it is like family. It's funny (to me) the squabbles remind me of my husband and his siblings. They're all VERY DIFFERENT personally and especially politically, and things can get heated. I know they'll iron out; I know they will here, too. I know some of the people in those PT squabbles, and they're reasonable adults whe are solid in their convictions. They also have a bit of an imp in their personalities, so they push peoples buttons; it happens. As I said; it'll iron out.

Anna, thank you for the thread, it was needed. Karen and Paul; thank you for a great family!!
Maggie