I think empty nest syndrom hit my parents pretty hard because it is just my brother and I, so they lost two at the same time (we're twins). They said that they didn't know what to do with all their time because they weren't frequenting the sports events, musicals, forensics, band concerts anymore. It's been three years now and I think they are starting to like having us gone...now they will just randomly decide to do something and they don't have to worry about anything.

As far as the cash card...
I think that's a very good idea. I've never used one, but from the sound of it it seems like a great way to transfer money as well.

Maybe an effective coping mechanism would be purchasing a new snake to fill the void that your daughter left...