Raising Service Dogs: What Does It Entail?

At some point during your life, you have likely encountered someone with a service animal. What exactly is a service dog, and what is their purpose? Service dogs are specially trained to assist people in performing important life tasks. They help with everything from physical disorders to severe psychiatric disabilities. Physical impairments can be defined as any medical condition or disorder that affects one of the body systems. Examples include blindness, diabetes, cancer, and many more. Many people wonder how to raise a service dog and if it is a good fit for their lifestyle. Let's look a little bit closer at what it entails.

Who Can Raise Service Dogs?

Most if not all organizations require you to be 18 years of age or older to raise a service dog. If you're under 18 and you live with an adult as your co-applicant, this can also be approved in some cases. It's also important for the puppy's development to have supervision and socialization throughout the day, so you might need to discuss bringing the dog to your workplace or providing an alternative for socialization and care, according to CCI (Canine Companions for Independence). If the puppy is left unsupervised, he or she must be in an appropriate sized crate. Therefore, it's imperative that your lifestyle allows for these adaptations if you are choosing to raise a service dog.

Does it Cost Money to Raise a Service Dog?

With CCI, those raising a service dog are responsible for providing food, supplies, vet care, transportation, and other related expenses while the puppy is in their care. These expenses are usually tax deductible, and assistance is often given if any large veterinary expenses were to arise. However, every organization is different in what they cover, as well as the expenses that go along with raising a service dog.

Benefits of Raising Service Dogs

Raising a service dog has so many tremendous benefits, not just for you and your family, but for the impact that you're making on the world. You're truly changing lives and making a difference for people with disabilities. If you are raising service dogs with children in the home, you are teaching them compassion and empathy by showing them the sacrifice and hard work that will go into caring for an animal that you will ultimately be giving up in order to positively impact another person's life. Also, who doesn't love puppy snuggles?

How Do I Learn More?

There are many fantastic programs in the US that raise service dogs and match them with future owners. The best way to find them is to do a search and read about the different support, training, and requirements for each. You can then see which one is truly the best fit for your family. Reach out to your network, too, and see if anyone has raised a service dog and can discuss their experience with you! For those of you who are local to Austin, check out Service Dogs Inc to learn more about raising service dogs here in central Texas.

Are you thinking of raising a service dog? We want to hear about it!

About the Author:

Jessica is an East Coast girl originally from Boston, MA but recently transplated to Austin, TX. She is a former OB Nurse Educator turned Content Manager and Brand Strategist. She recently founded Every Mama Birth Education, where she creates customized childbirth education courses for busy moms, in the comfort of their own homes. When she’s not busy blogging or being a pregnancy and birth nerd, you can catch her chasing around her three busy kids and rescue fur baby. You can also follow her antics on Instagram.

Is Your Child Ready For A Pet?

We've discussed why having a pet is good for your health, but how do you know if your child ready to take on the responsibility of pet ownership? With benefits like decreased risk of allergies and lower stress levels, it's no wonder why many families are looking to add a furry friend to their family. Pets are also a great way to help children learn responsibility and empathy, two very important qualities that will serve them well through life. Before you jump in headfirst, though, here are some key points to keep in mind to determine if your child is ready for this awesome responsibility.

Make sure the pet is developmentally appropriate. First, ask yourself whether or not you will be actively participating in the care of your child's pet. For example, will your child be primarily responsible for feeding the dog each morning? Is he or she at an age where they can remember to do so? Is a snake or lizard really the best choice for your curious toddler? Make sure that the pet you are choosing and the responsibility you are bestowing align with your child's developmental stage.

Assess your child's maturity and responsibility level. We can all be a little forgetful at times, but generally, there are key characteristics your child should possess in order to be ready for a pet. He or she should be able to listen to and follow directions, have a generally calm nature, and show love and empathy towards animals. These are all signs that your child is ready for pet ownership.

How Does Your Child Act Around Pets? When you go to a friend or family member's house with a pet, is your child gentle and loving? Does he or she show a respect and appreciation for animals? If your child can't keep her hands to herself or tends to be a little too overly enthusiastic with animals, this might be a sign that she's not yet ready for a pet of her own.

Have a back-up plan. Pets are meant to be permanent members of the family -- think about why you are considering a pet. Is it mostly for your child, or are you also interested in caring for it? What happens when your child loses interest in the pet? Are you going to be there to step in and pick up the slack? If this isn't something you're ready or willing to do, a family pet is likely not a good fit.

Research different pets. Most children are drawn to cats and dogs, but make sure you really sit down and get a sense of this responsibility. Can your family comfortably afford vet bills? Do you have a smaller living space that isn't conducive to large tanks or larger dogs? Are you able to give your dog regular exercise? There are a lot of different factors to consider, and each family is going to have different circumstances to see which pet, if any, is right for them. Here's a great quiz to figure out which pet might be the best fit for you.

Do a Trial Run. Pet sit for a friend or neighbor and allow your child to help with the bulk of the responsibility. What is his or her reaction? Do they seem excited by the possibility of pet ownership, or does it seem like it will be too much work for them? This is a great (and temporary!) way to see if a pet is a good fit for your family.

One important aspect to keep in mind is that when you adopt a pet and bring a new animal into your home, it might take time for everyone to adjust. Your kids might need time to learn how to be responsible and gentle -- and that's ok!

What do you think, Austin parents? How did you know that a pet was right for your family?

About the Author:

Jessica is an East Coast girl originally from Boston, MA but recently transplated to Austin, TX. She is a former OB Nurse Educator turned Content Manager and Brand Strategist. She recently founded Every Mama Birth Education, where she creates customized childbirth education courses for busy moms, in the comfort of their own homes. When she's not busy blogging or being a pregnancy and birth nerd, you can catch her chasing around her three busy kids and rescue fur baby. You can also follow her antics on Instagram.

Introducing Petributes

My photographs have often focused on the concepts of love, beauty, joy and connection– the stuff that I feel is worth holding onto closely. Now, I am bringing in the sounds.

I’m so excited to introduce my new Petribute package. This is a unique package that allows me to combine my long love affair with still imagery with the power of audio.

The inspiration behind this package:

Throughout my more than 15 years as a professional photographer, much of my work has focused on pet portraits. I have been fortunate to meet and photograph hundreds of sweet dogs, cats, horses and other creatures. I have also had the terrific opportunity to connect with many doting pet parents.

As much as I like to focus on the positive in all aspects of my life, there is a harsh reality to being a pet parent that needs to be considered. This is likely known, but it's nonetheless something I’ve had to think much about in the past couple years. The most difficult part about sharing our lives with these sweet creatures is that their lives are never long enough. Even when our pets advance well in their years, it just never feels like enough time. Many of us as pet owners are forced to deal with a pet’s illness -- to say it's incredibly difficult is an understatement.

I’ve experienced this loss firsthand, and I’ve been giving a lot of thought to how important it is to honor our beloved fur babies. I created the Petribute package in order to help honor aging and sick animals that are important parts of the family.

What’s this package about?

Investment in this unique offering includes a donated portrait session for senior pets and those diagnosed with serious illness. In addition to other sweet items, your pet will be honored with a 1-3 minute curated slideshow of your favorite session images, featuring audio of your voice and pet sounds that pay tribute to your beloved pet.

I remember struggling for ways to honor my pets when I have had to say goodbye, and I feel so strongly that this kind of tribute will help heal hearts and honor the memory of pets in a very special way.

Click to learn more about this package offering. If you have any further questions or wish to inquire as to whether this package is the right fit for your family, please feel free to reach out to me.

Best Dog Friendly Restaurants in Austin

Austin has a reputation as a dog friendly city, and for great reason -- you can bring your dog to many places, including restaurants! While some restaurants are pet friendly in the sense that they allow you to take your dogs onto the patio, others have actual dog parks as part of their facility! If you're seeking the scoop on the best places around the city to dine with your pup, here are five of our favorites that we consider to be some of the best dog friendly restaurants in Austin.

Yard Bar. This incredible place is a restaurant and dog park combo, featuring a full bar and off leash dog park. There are even staff called Bark Rangers that help care for your pup while you enjoy your food and drinks! Day passes are only $5, with monthly and annual memberships also available.

Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden. Thirty house made sausages, over 100 beers on tap -- and an off leash dog park! There's even a specialty sausage on the menu made especially for dogs. Both you and your pup will love exploring this option.

Moontower Saloon. If you're a live music junkie, this place is a must for you and your dog. They feature live music four days a week, as well as beer, food, and games. They are very dog friendly, but be aware that your pup needs to be kept on a leash at all times.

ABGB (Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company). This great restaurant boasts terrific food, music, and beer -- with a fun, dog friendly twist! Not only is the pizza incredible, but there are even dog biscuits and watering stations for your pup, as well as tons of great outdoor spaces for you both to explore.

Shake Shack. Who doesn't love these delicious burgers and fries? Did you know that they are also dog friendly? Your pup is welcome on the patio, and there's even a delicious Pooch-ini (dog biscuit, peanut butter sauce, and a little custard) on the menu!

What do you think, Austin pet parents? Are any of your regular stops on our list? 

About the Author:  Jessica is an East Coast girl recently transplanted to Austin, Texas where she lives with her husband, their three human children, and their rescue fur baby. She is an OB Nurse Educator by background, but has worked as a freelance writer, content manager, and brand strategist for the past few years and loves every minute of it. You can follow her on her personal blog or Instagram profile. 

How to Choose A Doggy Daycare

Are you considering a doggy daycare for your pup? Perhaps your work schedule is calling for some backup care, or your pet's personality seeks additional socialization and engagement. Doggy daycare serves not only as peace of mind for busy pet owners, but also as an outlet for high energy dogs to play and interact -- regular socialization is so important for dogs! Whatever the case, it is important to keep some key factors in mind when touring and selecting a care setting for your dog. Here are seven of the ones we feel are most important. They will help you choose the best doggy daycare in Austin, or wherever you reside!

1. Health Protocols. Make sure to select a doggy daycare that requires your pet to have obtained certain vaccinations and a clean bill of health from the vet. This will ensure that your dog is around other healthy pups.
2. Emergency Vet Care. If something were to occur with your pup, does the daycare have a vet or vet assistant on staff? Or is there a quick way to transfer your pet to his or her veterinarian? This is a great question to ask when you're touring.
3. Proper Supervision. Just like childcare centers have ratios and levels of care to strive for when caring for children, a good doggy daycare setting will make sure there aren't too many pups to one supervisor. If you have a small dog that is intimidated by larger dogs, consider seeking a facility that separates dogs by size.
4. Open Communication. Does the facility have cameras where you can pop in and check on your pup whenever you want to? Do you get a rundown of your dog's day when you pick him up? If there is a problem, is the staff prompt about communicating with you? These are all factors to consider when selecting a doggy daycare.
5. Trial Day. It's always a great idea to select a doggy daycare that requires a trial day where they evaluate your dog's temperament and behavior with other dogs. This shows you that the facility prioritizes the safety of the dogs in their care. It's also a great idea to have your dog stay for a few hours before you commit to purchasing a package so you can see if there are any negative changes when she comes home.
6. Cleanliness and Safety of Facility. When you tour the doggy daycare, make sure that everything is clean and well-kept. You also don't want any potentially harmful or hazardous materials near the pets. If your dog will be staying the night, take a peek at where the dogs stay when they're boarded. Are they in cages? Do they have a comfortable, temperature controlled room?
7. Observe the Staff. It is important to choose a facility that employs dog lovers. If the staff members are rough with the dogs, you want to stay away. Make sure you choose a business that will love your dog and dote on her while you're gone.

Remember that every pet and pet owner are unique and will have different requirements when it comes to seeking a doggy daycare. Regardless, these seven factors discussed above should be at the forefront of your mind when you are touring and selecting a doggy daycare for your pup. Whether you are seeking the best doggy daycare in Austin or any surrounding area, it's a great idea to bring a checklist and ensure that the facility is what you're seeking.

About the Author: Jessica is an East Coast girl recently transplanted to Austin, Texas where she lives with her husband, their three human children, and their rescue fur baby. She is an OB Nurse Educator by background, but has worked as a freelance writer, content manager, and brand strategist for the past few years and loves every minute of it. You can follow her on her personal blog or Instagram profile. 

Five Kid Friendly Public Pools in Austin

 

It's no secret that our summers here in Austin are hot! If you're one of the lucky one with a neighborhood or backyard pool, they're a great way to cool off with your kids during these warmer months. If you're not, it's fun to seek out great public pools -- consider it a day trip adventure! There are some great pools to choose from around the city, and we've compiled a list of some of our five favorite public pools here in Austin. Bonus: they're all kid friendly!

1. Barton Springs Pool. If you haven't visited this gem yet, you need to add it to the top of your list. With cool features like a diving board, beach entry, and natural spring water at the perfect temperature, this pool is deeply loved by children and adults of all ages. Make sure to arrive early because the entry line can get long, especially on weekends.

Location: 2201 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704

2. Veterans Memorial Pool. Complete with a water playscape, small slides, a diving platform, and a beach entrance, this pool is one of our favorites around Austin to keep kids of all ages entertained. It's basically a water park and a pool, and it's perfect for all the Northern Austin mamas.

Location: 1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613

3. Lakeway Swim Center. The Lakeway Swim Center is perfect for kids of all ages because it boasts lily pads, slides, a shallow pool for young children, and a deeper pool for adults and older kids. There is also a fun oversized chess set, climbing wall, and even coin operated lockers.

Location: 3103 Lakeway Blvd. Lakeway, TX 78734

4. Scott Mentzer Pool. This quaint pool features a beach entry and the perfect area for young kids. It even has a small lazy river and is adorned with adorable slides, play, and spray structures.

Location: 901 Old Austin Hutto Road, Pflugerville, TX 78728

5. Bartholomew Pool: This great Austin pool features two large water slides for older kids, as well as a toddler slide for ages 2-4. There's also a shallow, shaded pool with a beach entrance for younger kids. The only drawback is that this pool can get crowded, and slides don't open until noon.

Location: 1800 E. 51st St., Austin

Are any of these pools on your Summer Bucket List? 

About the Author: Jessica is an East Coast girl recently transplanted to Austin, Texas where she lives with her husband, their three human children, and their rescue fur baby. She is an OB Nurse Educator by background, but has worked as a freelance writer, content manager, and brand strategist for the past few years and loves every minute of it. You can follow her on her personal blog or Instagram profile. 

How to Choose A Dog Groomer

Your pet is a valued member of the family, so choosing a groomer who will be around your dog with soapy water and sharp grooming instruments can be nerve wracking. Not every groomer is going to be a good fit for every dog, either! Though many dog owners are able to handle a lot of the grooming themselves, there are times when a professional needs to step in. Luckily, we've compiled a great list of tips for you to keep in mind to help you select the best groomer in Austin and beyond.

1. Go By Reputation. Use social media to your advantage and post on a local Facebook group to ask for recommendations. Check out Yelp and Google reviews, too, or ask local friends who they use and love. Hiring a groomer with a good reputation gives you the peace of mind that many have used them before and find them trustworthy.

2. Ask About Experience. Did you know that there's really no extensive training to be a dog groomer? While some groomers do attend professional programs, others don't. This doesn't necessarily mean that they won't do a top notch job, but it's important to inquire about their experience with grooming, as well as with specific breeds and temperaments that match your dog.

3. Cleanliness of Shop. Check out the grooming facility and make sure it is clean and well-kept. Inquire about how instruments are sterilized and see the facilities where the dogs are kept between grooms. You can even bypass this altogether by hiring a mobile dog groomer who can care for your pooch in the safety and comfort of your home!

4. Facility Requirements. Some grooming facilities will require your dog to be up-to-date on specific vaccinations. Consider this a positive thing that these groomers care about the health and wellness of their pets, and not as an annoyance to make an extra vet trip. Some groomers will also require owners to drop off their dogs, while others will not -- your individual comfort with these policies will vary, so choose a groomer whose philosophies align with yours.

5. Positive Communication. Were you treated kindly when you called to make an appointment? Was the shop owner able to adequately answer your questions and give you the information you requested? Choose a groomer with stellar communication skills so you'll feel comfortable leaving your pet with him or her.

6. Pricing and Services. This one's a no brainer, but it's important to choose a groomer with a price point you're comfortable with, as well as who offers the services you're seeking for your dog. Each dog's coat is different, and some groomers might have more experience than others with specific breeds and temperaments.

Do you have another tip that you'd like to share with us? 

About The Author:

Jessica is an East Coast girl recently transplanted to Austin, Texas where she lives with her husband, their three human children, and their rescue fur baby. She is an OB Nurse Educator by background, but has worked as a freelance writer, content manager, and brand strategist for the past few years and loves every minute of it. You can follow her on her personal blog or Instagram profile. 

Five Kid Friendly Parks in Austin

Summer is upon us! For families with young children, summer is typically a time meant for ice cream, playing, sunshine (and sunscreen!), swimming, and PARKS! Living in Austin, we have so many parks because they can thankfully be used year round. If your kids are anything like mine, though, they really benefit from “mixing it up” with parks. The park that is down the street from your home is certainly convenient, but children benefit from different environments, textures, activities, sounds and smells. Before you head to your usual park, consider checking out some of our favorites below for something new and exciting!

1. Mueller Lake Park

Located downtown and convenient to shopping and The Thinkery, Mueller Lake Park has a lot to offer! Their playground is large, fenced in, and has play options for all ages. There is also a lot of nature around for your children to be amused by -- ducks, lakes and ponds, geese, large fountains, and more! I was impressed with how natural everything felt despite being in a very suburban location. Their total span of 140 acres encompasses trails, open spaces, and the park, itself. For more information, check out their website.

2. Bee Cave Central Park

This is probably our most frequented park for many reasons! The first playground, located at the main entrance, is geared more towards the skill set of older, school-aged kids. Mostly shaded, this front park has plenty of things to climb on, under, and through as well as two slides and swings. It is also immediately adjacent to a pavilion with bathrooms, picnic tables, and water fountains. As you continue driving through the park, you see some of the open fields and jogging trails. Bee Cave Central Park offers 50 acres of green space so there is plenty of room to kick a ball, throw a frisbee or do yoga! Towards the back of the park (south end) is a second playground and a dog park. This second playground is where I tend to gravitate with my two girls, as it is a little more pre-K friendly. There are slides and climbing structures that are more conducive to young children, as well as a second pavilion with bathrooms, picnic tables, and water fountains. My only caution is that this park tends to get crowded, especially on weekends, so it is worth coming earlier in the morning to snag parking. Check out their website for more information and directions. It is open to all individuals, and there are no gate fees.

3. Lakeway City Park

Similar to the Bee Cave Central Park, the Lakeway City Park also boasts two playgrounds! The first playground is by the main entrance and is designed for toddlers and pre-k children.

The second playscape is designed for more school age children and has a basketball hoop. Both playground areas have a picnic area. The two playgrounds are located within the greater 64 acre Lakeway City Park that offers nearly two miles of jogging trails, a Bark Park (for your fur baby), grill at the covered pavilion, and the ability to relax by the waterfront. Be aware, though, that there are no lifeguards on duty. Check out the Lakeway City website for more information on the entire park, as well as the playgrounds. It is open to all individuals, and there are no gate fees.

4. Springwoods MUD Park

Conveniently located in northwest Austin off of 183, this park is quiet, offers a variety of play equipment for different ages, and pavilions for picnic lunches. My favorite part is the cute little slide for toddlers – you’ll know what I mean when you see it! The park can get a little crowded on weekends, which makes parking difficult, but on weekdays the park is easy to access. They don’t appear to have a website, but you can find information about the park on Yelp. The park’s address is: 9117 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin TX 78729

5. Trailhead Park

Also located on the northwest side of Austin, this park is a hidden gem! Tucked behind a residential neighborhood and conveniently adjacent to greenbelt trails, Trailhead Park is VERY toddler friendly. The entire park is under a large umbrella which makes it a good option for those hot summer days. A mini climbing wall, two walls of buttons that mimic musical instruments, slides of different sizes and steepness, as well as a walk-up ramp for strollers or wheelchairs makes this my personal favorite park that I’ve discovered so far. There are also picnic tables, a basketball court, and a sports field -- this means your tweens and teens can have age-appropriate fun as well! Get directions and more on their website. It is open to all individuals and there are no gate fees.

May your summer is full of laughs, smiles, and fun with your kids – I hope this list helps you add a few more smiles to your family’s memory bank!

About the Author:

Kelsey Packard single mama of two littles in Austin Texas. She has a masters in Human Development and Family Studies, does freelance work as a Project and Data Manager, and enjoys writing in her free time! She loves supporting other mamas and striving for a healthy, wholistic lifestyle! She can be reached at kpackardmanagement@gmail.com with questions from fellow mamas or with work opportunities!

Five Great Dog Parks in Austin

It's no secret that we love the outdoors here in Austin -- and so do our furry friends! A great way to beat the heat in early morning or evening hours is to take your pup to one of Austin's beloved dog parks. Dog parks are a great way to socialize your pup while providing some exercise in a fun, friendly environment. Are you looking for the best dog parks in Austin? We've compiled a list of five favorites around the city:

Auditorium Shores: This outdoor concert venue has terrific trails for hiking and biking and also serves as a great place to watch the Fourth of July fireworks. This park offers an off-leash area for dogs, as well as a place for your dog to cool off in Lady Bird Lake. You can see from the fantastic photos and Yelp reviews that this is a staple for Austin families with furry friends!

Norwood Estate Dog Park: This completely fenced in dog park gives your dog enough free reign to exercise and tire himself out, with the peace of mind that he's secure. This park also boasts a separate area for smaller dogs, too. There's even a water station and ample seating for pet parents, making it a favorite here in Austin.

Red Bud Isle: Does your pup love to get wet? This lakefront, off-leash park offers your dog a chance to stroll along the shore or jump in the river and go for a swim. The only downside to this great dog park can be the parking situation -- in higher peak times, it can be tough to swing a spot.

Bull Creek District Dog Park: This beautiful dog park boasts a waterfall and other terrific swimming areas. It's great for families and dogs that love to get wet! There are also some great hiking spots, and be sure to bring a lunch for a scenic picnic. This hidden gem is even more amazing on a hot Texas summer day.

Zilker Dog Park: This park isn't just for dogs, but there is a designated "off leash" area where they can roam. Bonus: it's shaded and conveniently located near downtown Austin!

Do you have a favorite dog park that wasn't mentioned here? We'd love to hear about it!

About the Author: Jessica is an East Coast girl recently transplanted to Austin, Texas where she lives with her husband, their three human children, and their rescue fur baby. She is an OB Nurse Educator by background, but has worked as a freelance writer, content manager, and brand strategist for the past few years and loves every minute of it. You can follow her on her personal blog or Instagram profile. 

Tips for Introducing Your Dog to Your New Baby

 

There is nothing quite like your first baby, especially if that precious bundle happens to have four legs and a coat of fur. Caring for a dog can help prepare parents for the responsibilities that go along with new parenthood, but sometimes parents-to-be can feel overwhelmed by the thought of introducing their pet to the new baby. Here are some great tips for a smooth transition:

Plan Ahead

If you haven't had your dog enrolled in obedience or training classes, now is the time to do so. Small behaviors that might seem harmless now, like jumping up onto your lap, can become tougher to handle when you're very pregnant or holding a baby. Try to get your pet familiar with children as much as possible, too. They are tinier and more unpredictable (not to mention louder!) than adults, so taking your dog to a friend's house with small children or to the park to acclimate him or her to small kids can be helpful. Just make sure you're always there to supervise, and be sure to take it slow.

Another important part of planning ahead is knowing who is going to take care of your dog when you go into labor. Do you have a trusted friend or family member who is going to be able to feed and walk your pup? If you're worried about being able to juggle both your dog and a newborn, a doggy daycare environment is a great idea for your pet to get socialization and burn energy while you are acclimating to your new role as a parent. If you're interested in this, start looking early and send your dog somewhat regularly so he or she is accustomed to the environment when your baby arrives.

The First Smell

While you're still in the hospital, consider asking your partner or a trusted friend or family member to bring home a blanket or bodysuit that was used by the baby so your dog can grow accustomed to the smell. When you take your baby home, your dog will recognize his or her scent.

When you first come home, your dog will likely greet you very enthusiastically. When he or she is calm, bring your new baby out of the carrier and sit with them -- then slowly call your dog over. Allow your dog to standby and be part of the action when you're talking to your baby and changing diapers, too. Remember that no matter how docile your dog is, you should never leave your dog and baby unsupervised together.

Set Boundaries.

It's ok to have designated baby gates in your home for areas that you want to declare a pet-free zone for your new baby. Make sure your dog also has plenty of access to his or her own toys and treats so that they're less tempted to chew on baby's items. Teach your baby from a young age to be gentle with your pet, and remember to never leave the two of them together unsupervised.

Do you have any tips that you'd like to share? 

About the Author: Jessica is an East Coast girl recently transplanted to Austin, Texas where she lives with her husband, their three human children, and their rescue fur baby. She is an OB Nurse Educator by background, but has worked as a freelance writer, content manager, and brand strategist for the past few years and loves every minute of it. You can follow her on her personal blog or Instagram profile.