George

Kristin van Ogtrop, Managing Editor
One of the sweetest traditions we observe at Real Simple is publishing, each spring, the photographs of babies born to the staff during the previous year. This time we’ve decided to celebrate a different beloved family member: the pet.

My own household currently contains assorted members of the animal kingdom, but the pet who reigns supreme is our 16-year-old cat, George. My husband and I adopted George as a kitten when we were clueless newlyweds; he provided our introduction to parenting, among so many other things. Over the years, George has grudgingly come to share his place in our hearts with three children, a number of hamsters, countless fish, and — horrors — a dog, but he will always remain our first child.

The animal lovers of Real Simple, whose furry pals are featured on the following pages, would love to hear about your pets and the ways they enhance your lives. To share your shaggy dog (or cat or hamster) stories, go to the Your Words Community Area. Whether your children walk on two legs or four, every parent has a right to brag.