Family Pets

For anyone who might have noticed, I have been absent from my blog for the last couple of days - apologies. You might have figured out my why by the title for this post. We have a new member of our family by way of a 3-month old Shih Tzu. And, he is just about the cutest little guy ever - black and white with the most adorable face! Petey (short for Peter the Great which should be Peter the Petite: ) has taken over our household in less than 48 hours. This brought to mind today's post. Petey is adding a special presence to our home, but he is requiring a LOT of care: many potty trips outside; scheduled feedings; lots of play dates; grooming time; already a scheduled visit to the doggy doctor; and not nearly enough rest time for mommy yet.

I think many families can greatly benefit from adding a family pet. But, there are so many considerations that should go into that decision. WHO will be responsible for the various needs of the new pet? A child agreeing to "do everything" in order to obtain the new pet isn't very realistic. Is the pet you've selected a good size choice for your family and living arrangements? Is it a breed whose temperament is compatible with children? And, don't forget any allergy or asthma sufferers in you family. There are many breeds out there that these health issues don't come into play. So, be prudent before adding that new pet so that it will be a sound, healthy and happy decision for ALL!

Fall Outdoors Play

It's gorgeous out in central Indiana today. The kind of day that still carries summer breezes, yet hints at fall all at the same time. This is the perfect time of year to get outside with the children in your life. So, whether it's a rowdy group of 4-year olds, a multi-stroller with infants, or excited 2-year olds, GET OUT THERE! Point out end-of-season butterlies or migrating birds. Start that ever-growing fall leaf collection. It's not too soon to gather leaves in a pile and "have at them". The point is to get out here and enjoy the outdoors while most days are still so very inviting. Never forget that every play opportunity is a learning opportunity for the children you care for, but you have to "play" in the first place to make it happen. Have FUN!

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Today seems fitting to mention a cause that benefits the fight against breast cancer - something that has touched most of us in one form or another: a mother, a sister, a friend, or a spouse, struck by this disease. I lost my mother to cancer when I was 6 years old. October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Join 1-800-FREE411 in the fight against breast cancer. How? For every new person who calls 1-800-FREE411 this month, they will donate one dollar (up to $25k) to benefit the National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund. So tell your friends and family about 1-800-FREE411. Join the fight.