Hi friends,

This summer didn’t quite go according to plan. I’m an art teacher, and I usually bridge the summer months with art contracts — but this year, the grants fell through and enrollment dropped, so those gigs vanished. That left me in a bit of a scramble, and now I’m playing catch-up on bills while also caring for my sweet pup, Rhonda.

Rhonda is more than just a pet — she’s my four-legged roommate, comfort-giver, and the one who listens patiently to all my half-baked lesson plans. She’s been diagnosed with kidney failure, which means more vet visits, special food, and meds to keep her comfortable.

The good news: I have a new teaching position starting at the end of August. The not-so-good news: my first paycheck won’t land until nearly three weeks later. In the meantime, the bills don’t stop coming, and Rhonda’s care can’t wait.

If you’re able to chip in, even just a little, it would help us both breathe easier through this tricky stretch. Every bit goes toward keeping the lights on, food on the table, and Rhonda comfortable.

Thank you for reading, for caring, and for being part of our little safety net.

With gratitude (and a big bulldog smile),

Karen