A walrus bone, the baculum, mounted on a plaque became a traveling trophy for the winner of the annual Illinois-Purdue softball game. When it was stolen, the effort to get it back led to a life-changing adventure.

Lacey heard the tell-tale chirp from her cell phone.

While the wealthy, privileged and middle classes worry about losses in the stock market, the world's underclasses worry about food costs and shortages.

Owners who seek to avoid conflict by meeting challenges head-on actually become part of the problem.

Dr. James Brooks turned over in bed and looked at the clock. It was 8:05 a.m. He was a little late but thought he could make it to the clinic on time. He quickly headed to the bathroom to wash up and brush his teeth. He looked in the mirror — same face, different day. He laughed nervously because it really wasn't the same face. It was a suddenly aging facade marred by the daily stress of being a solo practitioner in a changing veterinary world. He had never married. His apartment usually was a mess — cleaned only when circumstances dictated.

The sun was shining and, although January in Jordan can be surprisingly cold, the dry climate always seems to ease the winter bite. We were up bright and early as the desert sun shone brightly over the port of Aqaba, Jordan. The five us were about to have the farm call of our lives.

Dr. Eb Rouge sat at his desk sorting his mail and bills. His habit was to have an ongoing conversation with himself.

Donna was 30 minutes late but finally made it into the exam room with her new puppy, Rudy.

'Betty, call Junior. I think I want to start a dispensary.'