I'm writing this partially to explain why MBC hasn't been updated much... I've found a new hobby. :)

African Violets for Petz Fans

I've recently gone head over heels for another new hobby that I think all petz fans will love. After all, why are most of us playing petz? Something (like allergies, parents, or common sense) keeps us from having real dogs or cats and doing everything we want to with them (showing, breeding, etc.). But some of us outgrow "virtual" things and long for something real. What if I told you that there was something in real life that anyone can grow, that will let you do the same things?

African Violets are the answer! They're easy to grow --- a plant requires less work than updating a webpage --- and there's something for all petz fans. If you love breeding mixed breeds to see what you'll get, hybridize your own varieties by growing plants from seed. If you love breeding purebreds, registering, and showing them, get some named varieties and join a local violet club --- because there are even african violet shows where your plants can compete and win awards. And trust me, you can waste just as much time surfing the web --- and making wonderful friends, all over the world --- growing violets as you can with petz.

Best of all, your friends and family members may understand this obsession a little better. My mother just rolls her eyes at "Look! My virtual sheepdog completed his PKC championship!" but she'll join me in gushing over a pretty plant. :)

To find out more about african violets, surf the web... my favorite website is Rachel's Reflections. Join their mailing list, Violet Reflections, and sign up for the "Share the Joy" program if you're serious...