"I am one of your original members, in Corning, California.

I thought perhaps other members would enjoy this unusual picture a friend forwarded to me. Best and Merry Christmas! P.S. We also have five cats!"

From Marshall W., a 75+ year-old N. California farmer (only 113 acres and "Poor Farm" since there is no profit in farming anymore after 60+ years). Also a WWII Vet (Tank Commander/ Squad leader at age 18!).

From our now famous Bethoven (a dog that can't seem to get enough visibility!), who owns member Karen C.

"I tried to laugh/smile really big on this one. Just for you. ps--they had one big heck of a time getting this shot. It took four humans 40 minutes. The thing they could not understand (because they did not ask) was that I needed a drink. I had no water for 9 hours waiting for my hair appointment. That tongue hanging out is a very DRY tongue! Keep hissin' Guido!"

From member Cat B.

"Hi Guido! Here are pictures of two of my beloved cats, sent as a memorial. The calico is Esmeralda, also known as Noona. She was my friend for 17 years. I found her living in a hole in the ceiling of the laundry room of the apartment complex I was living in. I took her home and she became my friend & confidante. The silhouette is Angel. I found her living behind a hospital. Some nuns were feeding her & her family until the hospital administrator decided that having cats behind a hospital was unhealthy. She was one of the "family" I took home."

From member Mary B.

"Attached is my companion, my friend, Toby. I got him from the local pound. I've had him for 6 years as of the first of the year and he is a wonderful and very loyal friend. He goes everywhere with me. I own my own business and he goes to work with me each day.

But, by far, the favorite place to him is the woods of our home in the hills of West Halifax, VT where he puts the old nose to the ground and ferrets out all manner of creatures. He's the best, very smart (he sings on command among many other tricks) and lives to love me and be loved by me. It was a great day indeed when I met and invited home my dear friend Toby."

This is another picture from member Yvonne A's "How do you sleep?" set. A good way to ring in the New Year, don't you think? ^..^