[docmartin]

My wife's away for a few nights and Crystal has only slept with her, apart from regular afternoon zzzz's with Dad, since she arrived June the 18th!

So last night I wondered how she'd determine her newly circumstantial presentiment. Despite all doors being open, so both our rooms were accessible, she selected to not only sleep with me, but to get just as close as she possibly could all night, like a little hot water bottle!

I don't sleep well when Irina's away, so watched half an hour of TV around 5am! Consequently I slept through this morning. No problems for my little girl, who adjusted perfectly. Thank goodness though she eventually woke me - at the crack of noon - with lots of kisses accompanied with an appealing head to one side, one paw up, gaze of pure adoration.

Surprisingly, she's hardly been to mum's room / bed at all. Perhaps they realize the reality of separation better, when at least one of their 'human's' is about. That's why we would never leave her alone over a few hours (twice) and never overnight, as some of our neighbors seem inclined to do?

I spent 4 years alone, after my late wife died and now in contrast would have found her company priceless at many times, I'm sure. I can see now, how they make such wonderful companions for singles - as long as you stay with them?