I have a family (son and grandson), but thanks to lockdown restrictions I have not seen them for around 20 months (they live around 350 miles away in Wales) -- but my two fur babies get mentioned in practically every conversation I have with anyone - even supermarket checkout girls!. They are such a big part of my life, why would I not mention them. If anyone thinks that is strange - that's fine by me - I just dont talk to them again!
You are my type of person - self sufficient, grow your own food, keep chickens, love your dog to the point of distraction and not afraid t