Goldie, so sorry for your losses. I too am quite attached to my fish. When I go on vacation I get really nervous. I do exactly what you did, measure out the food in little medicine cups, provide detailed written instructions. My wife isn't involved with my fishkeeping at all and several times I've had to go out of town for several days at a time. I talk to her every day and have her check for problems but I there really isn't much you can do when you're not there. It's not your fault so don't be afraid to go on holiday again. It's probably just a one-time round of really bad luck and seeing how you go through the time to educate whoever watches your fish you'll probably never have this happen again. Once more, I'm really sorry for your fish.
