Being 40: I'm a Mom

Many people do not subscribe to the idea that pets are members of the family. I am not one of those people.  Yesterday, I became a dog mom. I had hoped to be a mom before my 40th year ended and, although I didn't anticipate I would achieve that by adopting a dog, I consider the mission accomplished.

The adorable Labrador Retriever/Beagle mixed pup has a shiny, silky black coat and beautiful brown eyes. Adopting her gained me a membership in an exclusive club. It's called The Black Dog Club. The following is taken from the information I received about the Black Dog Club. If you are considering adopting, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for all of the black dogs awaiting adoption.

"Did you know that black dogs are often overlooked at animal shelters?

Most animal shelters find it difficult to place large black dogs into forever homes. Black dogs, especially large ones like Labrador Retriever mixes are overlooked in favor of lighter colored dogs.

Some shelter staff think black dogs are more difficult to see insider their kennels making it hard to connect with the dog. Others think it's hard to see facial features on black dogs and therefore hard to gauge their emotions.

There is absolutely no evidence that color has any bearing on temperament, behavior, or health, regardless of breed."

Being 40: Happy Tuesday

I don't hate Valentine's Day. I hate that everyone else thinks I should.
I don't have a problem with love. I love a lot of people. More than I can count, in fact... I have a problem with being told that I should be sad and angry and depressed because it is Valentine's Day.
I don't resent this holiday. I resent the people who try to make me feel like I should.

The idea that being single is some kind of punishment or prison sentence or some sad relegation for people who are not hot enough or good enough or lovable enough is not only antiquated thinking but it is also, quite frankly, an insult. We are not all longing for love or waiting for Prince Charming to ride in on his white horse to save the day.

The idea of being in a relationship is nice. And if the right guy came along, even if he wasn't on a white horse or wearing shining armor, I would be open to the possibilities. (Note to all the single men reading this: it's probably better if you don't show up dressed as the Tin Man on the back of your strong and noble steed.) But the notion that I am waiting at the window or by the phone or just waiting in life in general for romantic love to o complete me is a misconception. All single people aren't like princesses in a Disney movie. We aren't all sitting around depressed or sad or held hostage by the projected inadequacies of our singleness.

This may come as a shock to all of you conveniently or comfortably or even happily married folks but... some single people are genuinely happy.

So to those of you who have earmarked this day not only for love and affection and romantic dinners and chocolate and flowers but also for reminding your single friends that they are all alone and should feel lonely, I say to you...

Happy Tuesday.

And to my parents, my sister, my nephew and all the other members of my extended family as well as my wonderful friends, I say, Happy Valentine's Day. I love you!