I realize that there are many weighty things to discuss. However, I think that some lighter subjects should be brought front and center now and then. I was out and about today and eating lunch in my car. While doing so, I observed a man sitting at an outdoor table and as he was eating, he was dropping scraps accidently on purpose for his dog, a beautiful mid-sized all white mutt. I call that type of dog food, floor d'ouvres.

It started me thinking about pets. I live in a 165 year old village, but in the new section (30 years old). There are 285 homes and at least half of them contain dogs, and many cats a lot of them feral. I was impressed by the fact that the entire area didn't smell like a cesspool. Apparently, the pet lovers actually picked up after their dogs. we have every kind, from giant mastiffs, to little lap dogs like Yorkies. I own a beagle which I love dearly. Being a mini-hound the only way to get her on your lap is to put food there, but be careful, she might eat the buttons off your shirt.

This brings me to my topic. I wonder how many Gulchers have pets and who has dogs, or cats or something else, and why. Just curious. But in may be insightful -- about what, I'm not sure.