Of course I had to ask it, I was in such a mood when I wrote that -- I never believed for a moment that you actually "boarded" her. Congratulations on her ball work. Is she considering eventually going into the WNBA? I think that's such a cool thing they've finally done for women.

That idea of a house-sitter is not a bad one. You'd want to interview anyone as deeply as you would a babysitter for your daughter, but there are many services that do that sort of thing. Ask too if they are bonded and insured and request a copy of the paperwork showing that, so you can check on it. Also, request references and check them out. Could be less expensive in the long run and the animals are home and fairly happy (I'm sure they're never really happy when Mom and Sister are away).