The cat has helped keep me sane (well almost) in a year when I have had to close two businesses and fire ten friends, including my own daughter. It has also made me realise that there is more to life than grubbing for money - music, for example, and helping people out.

Just wish I could get to meet more of my Mudcat contacts for real. I've met a few UK 'catters (Liz the Squeak, Morticia, Gervase and Micca, for example), and Dick and Susan of the DT when they were over here last year.

I shall always be grateful to Kevin (aka McGrath of Harlow) who introduced me to the site in the first place.