Once we are settled in Portland, I am looking forward to more meetings with Left Coast FodorPals ..

Hi cigalechanta,

Bless her heart, when she was 11 mos. old we discovered that she was born with a genetic disorder called "luxating patellas". Her kneecaps kept slipping out of joint. Our wonderful vet recommended surgery to correct the problem.

She is such a brave little trooper, just an angel, and I feel for her greatly.

She is very content sitting in my lap, and I home, quite willing and able to baby her, so she is there now as I type to you, hee.

Thanks for your concern! T & ((&))

p.s. Say is there anything they can do for your pup? Poor sweetie.

Cig, it sounds like it might be close to time for your elderly pup.

I nursed a 16 year old lab and a 10 year old schnauzer as long as they could have quality of life and have happy days. The loss of muscle mass and difficulty standing were the next to the last sign for both of them.

My heart goes out to you and your Llasa Apso (sic?).

Thanks, ladies, the vet says as long as he is in no pain, eats well and I'm willing to be a caretaker, (I Am) He can go on. He is happy and only now does he like to be on my lap. Friends now visit often since he can't be left alone.

Love the birthday cake story! I definitely agree that there are some wonderful people on thse boards. I have not met anyone in person YET...but through email I feel like I have.

My DH used to tease me about my online axe murderer friends, lol! I had two online runner friends come stay with us, and my DH became friends with them as well. We have also run marathons together since then. So yes, all sorts of message boards can yield great friendships.

Starrsville, of course, you may call me if you're coming near Raleigh...... :-) The Triangle crew MUST have a GTG. I wanted to get one together this past Spring, but family obligations prevented my planning.... but it WILL happen, I promise, people!

Wow, I'm so glad to hear such wonderful stories from everyone, even if it did get into a little political debate off the subject there for awhile!

I would advise....if you plan to meet someone, make it safe for both of you. I merely planned to drop the cake at the hotel, after emailing for several weeks before their trip, we became friends and they asked me to stay for the celebration. We celebrated in the lobby (which was beautiful) and not in a room....which was also safe. Unfortunately, we do have to be careful. Keep up the kindness....even the friendly helpful advice is wonderful! I know I have been helped a lot over the years! Thanks to all of you!!!