I've been hearing from a lot of people who regret having signed up for one of those bundling offers - you know, phone, DSL and TV, all from a single carrier, often at a low rate. Here in Malibu, a communications company lost some fiber optic cables in the fires, and bundled households have been left without internet, telephone and television ever since. Triple whammy.

"We've been cut off when we need information the most," Susan e-mailed via a borrowed DSL line. "Please tell your readers to spread the wealth."

Done.

Now, for a change of pace, here's the little dog in one of her favorite spots, keeping cool up at the barn.

maisie multi-tasks - drinking and soaking.