20 Legs: 20 of 31

The Hubbard house has 20 legs worth of pets, and we love it. 

During the pandemic, we needed joy, like many families. We got a dog. Getting a dog when you cannot socialize or properly train may not be a great decision. However, we all made it through, and Cassie, in many ways, saved us. 

Look at that face. I love her so very much.

My youngest has wanted rats, well, for a while. We babysat some school rats over winter break and decided they might be one of the best pets around. So, now we have four of our own rats to shower with love. If anyone would have told me that I would be loving on rats every night, feeding them chickpeas, salad, and dehydrated vegetables with grains, I would have told you right to your face, "NEVER!" Yet here I am, just having finished giving four baby boys their dinner and cuddling each one. 

Left-Cinnamon (he's my rat)

Center-Blue (that's Shawn's rat)

Right-Gurgle (Arie's rat, the youngest Hubbard)

This is Hawking, my son's rat. He is named after Stephen Hawking. 

I don't think I fully grasp the importance of pets for my family. It is a way to give love in a way that requires nothing in return. I have no expectations. I know these pets will never do as much for me as I do for them, and I couldn't be happier about it. They just provide entertainment, laughter, and a little love once in a while. You know, when they feel like it.