It’s a very rainy day here in Vermont, which is a little fitting for the way I feel today. Animals have a special way of taking hold in our hearts, and many of us find great comfort from having them in our lives. I think for anyone who has had pets in their life knows that unique bonds are formed with each one, and for some the bond runs deep. I’ve been around and owned horses for my entire life. I have bonded with several horses, but one horse holds a very special place in my heart, Skye. I am blessed to have been able to share 30 something years with this wonderful animal. I was able to grow as a rider thanks to him and in later years he helped my girls learn basic horsemanship. Yesterday I had to say goodbye to my lifelong friend and the grief over his loss is enormous. But, I have to keep moving forward. I have two other horses who need me and at the end of a long day, I can count on my pups, Piper and Tyson, to keep me company at night.

Don’s been out this week at CES. I’ve seen a few Facebook posts from the show and it seems robots are the big theme this year! I’ve had a hard time accepting the idea of drones, I can only imagine how long it will take me to adjust to robots taking care of people or as a partner in a round of scrabble! Thankfully, I’m confident in saying it will still be sometime before I have to be concerned over the idea of robots in my life. Who knows, maybe by the time that happens I will have become a fan of drones! Robots are happening right now, so I guess I need to get used to the idea! I’m looking forward to Don’s report on new products that will expand our home automation offerings, as well as other new product offerings to add to our Small Dog line up.

For this week’s Kibbles & Bytes exclusive I feel the need to crank it up! Music and movies really are a way to relax, focus or just take some time to distract your mind. I am a huge fan of my Sonos speakers for my music and movies. This week, I’m bundling a white Sonos Playbase with a pair of white Sonos Play 1’s. This trio of speakers normally costs $999.99. I’m making this bundle available to Kibbles & Bytes readers for $875.99!