Dix, sorry about your mom. Lost mine in April who had been sick for awhile now too. It does get easier with time even tho I miss her tons. Just knowing she is not suffering any more is the most calming to my heart.
Sorry to hear some of you have been sick. Have not been on for almost a week and so much to catch up on.
And as for snakes, mice, etc.....there are two choices....they either die or I move! Hate creepy crawlies!
Found a huge spider in my sewing room floor dead sev months ago and now refuse to go in there barefooted til check all areas. My daughter said it was baby tarantula but to me it was the grandpa not the baby.
I had sprayed for ants the day before and it got it too. Now can't spray or bomb frequently enough (lol).