growlithing, I grew up in an abusive family, with parents who attempted to keep control even after I went to college. It seemed to me that it would be completely impossible to just break away and not return home for summers. I had that exact discussion with my college therapist over and over. Finally, I did just tell them that I was getting an apartment for the summer and not returning to live with them. It was a huge big deal, but in the end, I lived in my apartment and they lived with that fact.

If you want to PM me sometime, please feel free. I just wanted to let you know that although it seems impossible to break away, it isn't. Most universities now provide financial aid and support and there are loans available. Debt is better than death was my conclusion, because I knew that I would eventually die living with them.

I am sorry for you loss of the pig, also. I lost a hamster I adored once and it was hard to deal with the people who acted like she was "just" a hamster and not a real pet.