In this day and age it’s hard to believe a person doesn’t own an answering machine; my mother is the person. She has never really grasped the concept of the answering machine. When she calls and leaves a message it goes as follows – “Hello, anybody there? (This is followed by a … [Read more...]

In 1972, young and newly married, I adopted a mongrel beagle puppy from the local animal shelter. The caramel-colored pup, no bigger than my hand, licked my fingers and melted my heart. I paid my eight dollars and took my “baby” home. Bubbles, named for her exuberance, was … [Read more...]

(Author's last name withheld by request.) If you can't get your kids to give you the attention you desire, and you are permanently hoarse from screaming, "come here, NOW!", then here is THE way to get their undivided attention; go to the bathroom! Every time I go to the … [Read more...]

I was standing at my doorway talking to one of the other kindergarten teachers about the Halloween parade we would have with the classes on Friday. The children had their coats and backpacks on, and were milling around the room chatting and basically SHAKING with the anticipation … [Read more...]