
by Margaret Mendel
Who wants to cook in the summer? I sure don’t and I do everything I can to get out of standing over a hot stove in the warmer weather. Some days the best I can do in the summer heat is boil water. That’s when pasta salads begin to appear on our dinner table in the evenings. I like to cook a large batch of pasta and then divide it into a couple of meals depending on how many family members will be home for dinner.

by Brian Wall
As a kid I always loved it when the power went out. It was exciting! Life was acceptably unpredictable and a tinge out of control. It was fun lighting the candles, peering out the window at the pitch black outside, gathering together as a family and talking or playing cards until PG&E could get things figured out – usually an hour or so later.

by Diana Bulls
Any child can tell you that Moms know everything there is to know about anything, and Moms have been reinforcing this belief for eons. Up until now, the big file vault of Mommy information has been a well kept secret. That is all about to change. This reporter and Kings River Life are actually going to let the world know the whereabouts of a potential mom information stash!

by Margaret Mendel
In 1914 Woodrow Wilson set aside the second Sunday in May as the National Holiday to honor mothers. That seems a simple and contemporary concept. Yet, much more had come before this declaration.

by Sheryl Wall
Many studies show how important being fit is to you and your dog. According to Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook, approximately 20 percent of dogs are obese in the United States. They also state that it causes complications for those with several diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. Exercise also helps avoid a dog’s destructive behaviors such as digging, barking, and chewing that occur because of boredom and it can build confidence, and strengthen the dog and owners bond with each other.

by Joyce Brandon
When you are involved in animal rescue, very often if feels as if you are fighting a losing battle. Too many animal owners are oblivious to the fact that their actions or inactions, as it may be, have long reaching and long lasting effects. The story of our little mountain puppies demonstrates this so clearly

by Margaret Mendel
Once Daylight savings begins, I start planning my Easter dinner. We usually have between 12 and 14 people sitting at our table on that day. It used to be a big deal and I’d spend long hours shopping and preparing special dishes.

by Margaret Mendel
Everyone seems to be “going green” these days. Even the United States Postal Services has taken major steps in reducing its carbon footprint. In 2009 the Postal Services voluntarily conducted an inventory of their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that resulted in findings that prompted them to make changes in the way they do business.

by Justin Kamimoto
Today, yesterday and the days before yesterday all had a consistent epidemic at hand: bullying is happening and leading to destructive consequences. Bullying is the leading crisis in schools and communities across the nation where children of various ages are the main victims.

by Diana Hockley
Having a pet is a commitment. It is not something for which you beg your parents and then, two weeks later, have to be forced to care for. And parents, always remember that you will ultimately be caring for the animal. A decision to have a pet therefore needs to be a parental decision!

by Dewi L. Faulkner
It’s amazing to think that “green” was once just another ho-hum color on the crayon box. These days it’s impossible to even hear the word without immediate images of recycling, composting, and carbon tax credits floating across your periphery.

by Sheryl Wall
Most dogs love going places, be it a walk, going for a drive, or just playing in the front yard. So why not actually travel with your furry friend. If you are prepared, this can be a great experience for the both of you.

by Steven Wright
The season of joy, forgiveness, thankfulness and hope is upon us. In a perfect world, we should celebrate the birth of our Lord every day, be ever mindful of his sacrifice and be generous with our giving.
Unfortunately, this is not a perfect world and very often we find ourselves in situations that cause just the opposite to happen. Sometimes no matter what we try to do things just do not go how we hope.

by Sheryl Lewis
Holidays can be a fun time of year, but if we aren’t prepared it can turn into a miserable time with your pets. With all the presents, holiday treats and small Christmas decorations, your house could become a holiday tornado.