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I have enjoyed most of my house sitting experiences. The reason I started house sitting was to get away from home - yes, run away I guess. Somewhere where no one knew me, no one could phone me - I seldom answered my mobile phone, and never gave ANYONE the landline number.

I've done house sitting on islands in Moreton Bay, beautiful seaside homes on the mainland, and friends homes. Mostly it was to care for animals while their owners were away. I've cared for an array of dogs, cats, and tropical fish.

And of course the gardens. I've watered and cared for indoor plants, vegetables, and regular gardens.

For the most part I have found the solitude I was craving to work on my manuscripts. You see, in my other life, or one of them, I am a writer.

I always do research about the house, the family etc, and always always meet the owners, see the house, and consider the whole consequences of my moving into their home. I have refused some.

And there is one that I refuse to go back to. I thought I had done my research but I missed two things. The windows were open - no screens to keep out the marauding mosquitos that flew in and buzzed me and bit me. Drove me nuts. But the biggest issue with that house was the ex-husband. He had the house key, and knowing his ex-wife was going to be away, he chose to move in. He could see no problem with us sharing the house.

I phoned the lady and told her I was moving out. I was not planning to share her house with her ex-husband. She sent him packing, and I moved back in, but I was always uneasy. I was assured he would not return, but I wasn't sure. I felt on edge all the time.

At one I "lost" the cat. It was there one morning - and has never been seen since. I felt so bad!

It might have been different if I was not on my own. But I choose NOT to put myself at any special risk.

I have just completed another house sit - had one organised when I returned from China.

I'm keen to do some in the UK - though will not possibly have the same opportunity to meet with them before hand, but the contracts are usually short ones, and I will probably have my husband with me.

There are a number of websites on house sitting - so do a google and see what is in offer in your country. I use House Carers.

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