Laurel Elisabeth Stevens

My nine year-old girl and six year-old boy have enjoyed discussing what they want to be when they grow up.  It’s been a hot topic of late, and when kids get to talking about it, there’s no limit.  Elisabeth’s list changes from day to day, but most recently she wants to be -a vulcanologist -a biology teacher  -a teacher at a museum who teaches kids about animals,  -a veterinarian -a writer, or -a veterinarian who writes books Henry also wants to be a writer, or, if he can figure out how to make money this way, a lego collector.  As a writer he will write 3 books.  One will be 435 pages long, one 646 pages, and one 108.  The topics range from planet exploration to large dinosaurs. Being the proud parent I am, I think our kids could do any of these things.  John even thinks Henry could figure out a way to make money selling legos.   Today Elisabeth showed a trait that is valuable in just about any job, but especially...

It isn’t just the dog who needs to get used to her owners. A crate provides protection for both the dog and the house. Chocolate labs are beautiful.  Ours has a graceful, lilting walk that deserves a stare. A 9 year-old daughter who will pick up dog poop without complaining will be a good dog-owner. Boys learn the firm, commanding tone of voice very early. Dogs can’t climb out of pools without the steps, or without someone pulling them out. Vacuuming and mopping can be extra satisfying after owning a dog for five days. We will spend a lot of money at the pet store. A plastic bag with a hole in it is a whole lot worse than no bag at all.  Typically-walk-averse children don’t complain about the length of the walk when going with a dog.  A thunderstorm can be exhausting.  Kong Frisbees don’t float.  Swimming with a dog can make kids forget that the water is only 64 degrees Fahrenheit.  But you must learn to stay away from her claws.  Goo...