@msolga,
Nope, you were right the first time. It's my mother. As of April 2nd, she's now living in a care home and doing okay.
Now that my mom has been placed, both Vivienne and I are a bit more relaxed, although there always seems an obligation to visit (or perhaps an expectation?). I make a point of giving myself a break on weekends.
Yes, I have started looking for work again recently, but I think that it's not all that likely that I'll find anything, at least in the short run. I am 61, too, very soon, and employers tend to ignore us "oldies" in favour of the younger folks for most jobs.
Sophie (good memory!) is coming up to 4 next month and she's the sweety as always. Doing well, but she still has the occasional habit of trying to lick water in sinks. Can't break her of that. You would think we never had a bowl of water down, eh?
Glad to read that you have found your niche employment-wise. I, too, am not rich, but seem to be doing okay. I really would like to find something very part time to bring a little extra money in, but may have to settle on staying retired.
I do online surveys for small amounts of cash and chances at draws, but no jackpot yet.
I am actually around every day, but as you've noticed, don't post very often, and when I do, it's nothing of great consequence. I'll try to make more of an effort.