Why I Love the Merlin Bird ID App

If you’ve ever heard a bird song and thought, What bird is that? The Merlin Bird ID app is for you. It’s free and it’s fabulous at what it does. (Scroll to the bottom of the post to get the link.)
This screengrab shows what’s currently singing in my neck of the woods. I’ve used this app for so long now, that I can identify most of the bird songs on this list. The Song Sparrow iw always a little … Read More


I don’t know about you, but I’ve had it with ever-rising, never-ending subscription costs by digital monopolies, invasion of personal privacy, and now hijacking of my content for AI training.
The results are in, and for the fourth consecutive year, the French Bulldog has claimed the #1 spot in the American Kennel Club’s registration statistics. While the Labrador Retriever held a legendary 31-year reign until 2022, the “Frenchie” has officially proven it’s more than just a passing trend. Its compact size and big personality have made it the ultimate companion for modern living, but it wasn’t the only breed making …
If you’re considering adding an Aussie/German Shepherd mix (AKA German Aussie) to your family, there are a few things to consider. No doubt, you’re likely drawn to their intelligence, loyalty, and stunning appearance. But is this mix the right fit for you? Let’s dive into what you can expect from this combo and whether it’s a good idea for your lifestyle.
There was a brief window in my adult life — maybe a couple of years — when I lived without dogs. My business had taken off, I was earning a good living, and my house reflected it. I’m talking actual white furniture. A cream-colored area rug that I vacuumed voluntarily. Friends would come over and compliment the place, and I’d do that thing where you wave your hand like it was nothing, when really I’d spent the whole morning …
Why is it that for so many people, the thought of a life without a dog feels incomplete, almost unbearable? (I know I fall squarely in that camp…) Of course, we love their playful energy and loyal companionship, but I think it’s something deeper, rooted in our primal biology.