Commitment

I bought a fish. I know that doesn't sound like much to most people. But, with 4 kids and a dog, I was afraid to commit... until my sister called to tell me all about buying a fish for her kids. After going over all the details and taking notes (you think I am kidding), I took the plunge. The kids were thrilled. My #3 asked if we could buy a mouse since we were at the pet store anyway. I explained that I was VERY allergic to mice. I break out in hives just thinking about one being in my house.

The next morning, I jumped out of bed to see if I had killed him yet. He was still alive. Now we are on day 3. The kids named him "Killer". During the name negotiations, I suggested "Sushi". They all got very quiet and my son spoke up and said very seriously, "That isn't funny."

The whole thing was easier than I expected. I used a vase that I already had, put some cleaned sea glass in the bottom and filled it with water. I left it for a couple of hours while I picked up the fish (a betta), food and water conditioner. When we got home, I treated the water, then dropped the fish and a once-a-week feeding pellet in the bowl. I put this wire floral frog-thing on top and snipped a few cuttings of a houseplant to root in the bowl. Apparently, once the plant is rooted and established, the fish can feed off it's roots and I don't have to do anything. I'm a little wary of statements like that, so I'll probably keep up the once-a-week tablets.

I feel so good about this little project, that I am installing a water garden in the backyard tomorrow. Right after I finish the laundry...