Sometimes fate practically plops down on your couch, puts an arm around your shoulders, and says "Guess what!" This was one of those times. Early in the morning I wake up to the sound of yipping. We have foxes that live next door and periodically like to invite one of my cats over for supper. I thought this was one of those instances, though it was bright outside. I stepped out of my door and, much to my surprise, saw three puppies, crying their eyes out. They circled around to the side of the house and joined their mother and siblings. Seven puppies in all and a very hungry mom. We fed the obviously starving dogs and took pictures. My house still has the essence of cute in the air. When we ran out of suitable food to feed them, they took off. But they left one behind. We looked for the rest of them, but it was as though they had disappeared into thin air. So, now we have a very lonely, very confused puppy on our hands. Stay sane, though times are trying.

It just so happens that children are amazing. Today my sister and I met a little girl who astounded me. Not only was she in love with reptiles, but she knew so much about them! My sister, who is better at addressing strangers than I, was totally captivated by the explanation the girl was giving as to what was the correct pronunciation of Gila Monster. This from a girl who looked too young to know how to tie her shoelaces! My sister seems to always be ready to learn, even if her teacher has to interrupt the lecture for nap time. Our animal science lesson that day was from the mouths of babes as it were. It is amazing the knowledge kids retain, when they are barely talking. We discovered this interest in lizards when we found her drawing of various reptiles, which she explained a map to the magical Land of Reptiles. The wonders never cease. Stay sane. (or relatively close.)

Life sometimes seems like a motel. In my case, though, we didn't get good ratings with the critics. Many people enter and exit our lives, some stay longer than others and some make very distinct impressions. The end of this particular summer will leave a few empty spaces in my heart, but the Vacancy sign won't be lit yet. Sadly, as the youngest, I must watch my siblings grow up faster and leave sooner than me. Some how it won't be the same without out their presence in the next rooms, watchful and soothing. But, luckily for me, there will be a visitor this year who, one can only believe, will help to close the gap left by my siblings' departure. They will never be replaced but my heart has room for more. Stay sane, though it is hard, and don't be remiss in your duties of informing your family and friends what they mean to you. Happy Independence Day!

Ah, summer. The possibilities are endless during summer. So many things to do. Unless there isn't anything for you to do. It is the frustratingly simple question I ask myself everyday that makes September look so sweet. The immortal question, "So, what am I going to do?" ruins many a summer for the simple reason that if you have to ask, there is no answer. That is one of those million dollar questions that no one seems to be able to answer, because once you do have the answer, you don't care about the question any more. So it is with increasing disappointment I find myself posing that daunting question. Soon, however, I will have relief. I am visiting relatives, and others are visting me. Hooray for relatives and friends! They keep me sane in these trying times.

Has there ever been a time in your life when you needed to let off some steam? I'm not asking for dates, names, or times, but has there ever been a moment when you need to rant to someone?