Gender Challenges

And I thought I had a parenting dilemma. On many occasions I have written about my 6-year-old daughter’s repugnance for princesses, the color pink and anything that could be construed as being even the least bit girly girl. As a parent I pick my battles very carefully and my daughter’s desire to dress like a boy is not something I make an issue of… at least not out loud. I do get slightly annoyed when she places her hands on her throat and makes loud gagging noises when we enter the girls clothing section at Macy’s. And I do find … Continue reading

Dental Insurance for Pets?

If you are a pet owner, you may have at least considered getting pet insurance. Pets need checkups, and shots, and to be neutered or spayed. Sometimes, pets will get sick, or injured, and require medical care. Pet insurance is designed to help a pet owner pay for some of the bills associated with the medical care that your pet needs. Did you know that some pet insurance policies also cover dental care? There are many things to consider when you decide to purchase a pet insurance policy. If your pet is a breed that tends to get a particular … Continue reading

Meanings of Family Crests

What do the symbols mean in a family crest? There are hundreds of different symbols, and each one has it’s a specific meaning behind it. The science of heraldry involves learning about all the meanings of each symbol. There are plenty of websites that contain a list of what all the symbols mean. Experts in heraldry have been known to disagree about exactly what a particular symbol means. There are some commonly held beliefs connected to each symbol, but there are also disputes about those meanings. Each coat of arms will have it’s own colors. The color gold means generosity. … Continue reading

Take Stock III

On a snowy or rainy day (and boy have we been having a lot of those here on the east coast), consider taking stock of the items in your home. You’ll be sure to save some money, such as in finding new storage or finding free meals thanks to extra food you forgot you had. There are many different areas of the home in which to take stock. If you missed the first two posts in this series, be sure to check them out. The bathroom Lotions and potions and creams, oh my! All sorts of things tend to pile … Continue reading

Affordable Ways to Keep Kids Busy This Summer

Studies show that the current recession has caused many parents to forgo sending their children to expensive summer camps. Instead, moms and dads across the country are being forced to come up with their own means to keep their kids entertained during summer vacation. If you are looking for inexpensive projects to keep your kids stimulated during the dog days of summer, consider this simple idea: TREASURE BALLS These fun homemade balls are ideal for family treasure hunts. You can hide clues in the balls or use them as a container for small gifts. Another idea: Place different colored marbles … Continue reading

Zoo-rific Summer Travel Ideas

What a zoo! Life can get pretty chaotic, especially if you are juggling kids, a house, pets and a paying job. But with summer just around the corner, why not consider taking a break from your personal zoo to visit some of the best animal facilities in the country. A number of top-rated zoos are featuring special exhibits this summer—-everything from Mammoths to Micronesian kingfishers. If you are looking for super summer fun without having to travel abroad, then check out what’s new at the following zoos: MINNESOTA The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley is debuting a $1 million, nature-based … Continue reading

Having Fun in Indianapolis

The Indianapolis 500 roars into the Midwest on May 24th. While the race is one of the biggest events hosted by the city, it is not the only reason to visit. With the economy still in disarray, Indianapolis tourism officials hope budget-conscious travelers will consider the city a gas tank getaway. More than half the nation’s population lives within a day’s drive of Indianapolis, according to tourism officials, which is why the city is nicknamed the Crossroads of America. In addition to the iconic speedway, which remains the world’s largest spectator-sporting facility, Indianapolis boasts a plethora of other fun family-friendly … Continue reading

‘Twas the Night Before Halloween

Here’s something way, way, way off the normal course of offerings from me to you here in the Pets Blog. My attempt at paying homage to a classic holiday poem, “The Night Before Christmas” by Clement C. Moore –but with a twist. And it stars my three little monkeys: Murphy, Mr. Meow and Tabby. (Along with some seasonally appropriate Halloween cohorts, of course.) I’ll warn you now I’m no poet. Most of the rhyming is a stretch, the meter’s off, and who knows if any of it makes any sense, but this is what taking a nap the day before … Continue reading

Why Parents Should Say “NO” to the Real Life “Wonder Pets”

“Wonder Pets Wonder Pets We’re on our way To help a friend and save the day…” Parents with young children feel free to join in: “We’re not too big And we’re not too tough But when we work together We’ve got the right stuff… GOOOOOO Wonder Pets… YAY!!” I dare you to watch even half an episode of the popular animated Nickelodeon show about a determined guinea pig, an independent baby turtle, and an adventurous duckling without humming the theme song for the rest of the week. I should know. My preschooler has been a fan of the show for … Continue reading

Are Your Pets on YouTube?

When Wayne bought me my new digital camera last Christmas, I knew it spelled trouble for Murphy, Mr. Meow and Tabby. Because not only could I take pictures without having to hassle with film anymore (which freed me to snap, snap, snap as many pics as I wanted), I could also take video. An Amateur Pet Film Maker Is Born I had such high hopes that I could capture Mr. Meow doing his maestro show on the air vent or the cats chasing each other, but so far no luck. I quickly found out what a tricky business capturing pets … Continue reading