our blog
Scroll For Your Daily Dose
Easter Table 2026
Happy Easter, everyone! I created this Easter Table 2026 to give you some inspiration for some simple ideas and a quick tablescape. I chose these bow plates and green placemats, which are out of stock now, from Hobby Lobby, added a floral arrangement I made years ago when we lived in Missouri, flanked it with two stuffed bunnies from Walmart, and used a curtain as the runner. I used a panel curtain that I had in my dining room when we moved into this house. I added paper napkins with bows...
Can Dogs See In The Dark?
Happy Wednesday, everyone! Can Dogs See In The Dark? I was walking with Maggie into the house this morning. It was dark outside, and I had forgotten to turn the lights on in the garage and mudroom. She was walking ahead of me with no problem at all, and I was wondering…can she see in the dark? I had to do some research on this question and take a perfect opportunity to turn it into a post. Key Features of Dog Night Vision:Tapetum Lucidum: This layer reflects light back onto the retina,...
Maggie’s Nystagmus And Osteoarthritis
Happy Wednesday, everyone! On Monday, we took Maggie to the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center for our surgeon to evaluate her ankle. Before leaving for Columbus, Maggie had a transient episode of Nystagmus. Nystagmus in dogs is an involuntary, rhythmic, and uncontrolled movement of the eyes, often flickering side-to-side, up-and-down, or in circles. It is not a disease itself, but a symptom of underlying vestibular or neurological issues, such as inner ear infections,...
HCAS Rounds For Hounds Fundraiser
Happy Wednesday, everyone! I have mentioned a few times that I volunteer at the Hancock County Animal Shelter. I am part of the fundraising/event team and am excited to tell you about our Rounds For Hounds Bar Crawl Fundraiser going on Saturday, April 18th! I'm writing this post because I not only want to tell you about this exciting event, but also to hopefully get some good fundraising ideas! Fundraising ideas have been saturated and done to death. This bar crawl is a new event for...
What Is the “777” Rule For Dogs?
Happy Wednesday, everyone! What is the "777" rule for dogs? The 777 Rule for Dogs is a simple guideline that helps adopters understand what to expect when bringing a new dog home—especially from a shelter or rescue. It reminds you that adjustment takes time and happens in stages. Why the 777 Rule Matters and what the 777 Rule helps to prevent: *Premature returns to shelters *Unrealistic expectations *Frustration with normal adjustment behaviors *It encourages patience and...
Bows And Hearts Tablescape
Happy Wednesday, everyone! Today I'm showcasing my Bows and Hearts Tablescape in traditional Valentine's Day colors. I found these adorable pink bow dinner plates and salad plates at Hobby Lobby and completed the table with items I had from previous years. I think these dishes would make an adorable Mother's Day and Easter table as well! Stay tuned...I might be creating two new tables with these dishes :-). What are you all doing for Valentine's Day? Mr. TAL and I are staying home,...
What Are The Health Hazards Of Walking A Dog During Winter?
Happy Wednesday, everyone! What Are The Health Hazards Of Walking A Dog During Winter? Maggie loves playing in the snow, but the major snowstorm that rocked our area on Sunday made it hard for us to stay out and play as long as we normally do. We got about 14 inches of snow and ice, and I kept playtime short. Maggie likes to go out every day, sometimes twice a day, for a walk and to play ball. At 8 years old, she still runs almost as fast as she did when she was younger. But during bad...
30 Tips And Statements On What Pup Parents Wish They Knew Before Getting A Dog
Happy Wednesday, everyone! I’ve been volunteering at the Hancock County Animal Shelter and spending time with my cousin’s dog, Jasmine (yes, she is still there). As I watch people come in, I wonder whether they are seasoned dog owners looking for another addition to their family or first-time adopters learning as they go. So I put together 30 Tips and Statements on What Pup Parents Wish They Knew Before Getting A Dog, a fun read, and it gets us thinking about all the things we have said,...
5 Different Dog Cuddling Styles and What They Mean
Happy Wednesday, everyone! Do you have a dog who loves to snuggle, or one who gives you a minute or two of attention and then walks away? Do you think Dogs Snuggle With their Alpha? This article, based on research and from www.paradepets.com, on the 5 Different Dog Cuddling Styles and What They Mean, was so fun and interesting that I had to share it with you. Jake was my cuddler; the one who loved snuggling on the couch while rolled up in warm blankets from the dryer, sleeping on my...
What Your “Hello” To Random Dogs Quietly Reveals About You
Happy Wednesday, everyone! Do you find yourself saying “hi” to random dogs? Maggie gets so much attention when we take her places, but what I really appreciate is when strangers ask if it’s ok to pet her. It gives me a minute to assess the situation, read Maggie's body language, and allows for a comfortable interaction for all of us. I found this article online from Napizza.UK helps us understand the psychology behind the fascination with dogs and the normalization of social interaction...