I don’t know about you, but I definitely consider my animals as part of The Fam.

They just are. When I’m asked about my family, I include status updates on how the animal brood is. I’m sure plenty of people think I’m absolutely loco for this, but that’s okay. I am loco.

In the cool way, not the weird way. Or so I like to believe, so don’t burst my bubble … at least not yet.

Anyway. I just adore when my animals come and curl up with me … or they sit with me while I yoga, or watch while I cook. That one is probably because they’re afraid I’ll burn the house down … but regardless, their company is always welcomed.

There’s just something so calming about having them around me.

Take little Bennny B. Look at him. All that orange fur, cashed out while I read my book today. Such contentment when I look at him.

I feel like he always has this expression on his face that says, “slow down and relax with me.” How can I resist that? I can’t.

He helps keep me in check … to sit, even for a few minutes and just … be.