I went out to give the tortie more food and fresh water - she's eaten at least three times what I feed my boys! and as I placed the bowl of water and food down, I noticed she wasn't under the steps like she's been all morning, so I whispered softly "Oh, sweetie, where are you?"

I got an answer! The answer was (in a male voice) "I'm right here!" I almost fell over. I stood up, and looked over the tall bush blocking my view to see a utility guy standing at the utility box making repair work! I then had to explain why I was out in my socks and no shoes on a chilly morning calling for my sweetie... goodness I was caught off gaurd.

Well, no wonder she wasn't around, because the utility guy was right in front of her hole under the porch. I hope he didn't frighten her away permanently.