This past week has been a tempest of chaos on many fronts and in many parts of the world. We are in the midst of very stressful times, and with 24/7 media, it is easy to become overwhelmed by all the crazy stuff going on these days.

While it’s imperative to stay engaged — at whatever level seems right at the moment –, it’s also necessary to step back sometimes, unclench my jaws…

and look at photos of cute pets.

I know, I know… Facebook… Instagram… blogs… they’re glutted with fuzzy/furry/feathered little faces.

But you know what? I’m going to happily and shamelessly add to that glut. I’m going to indulge myself in cuteness overload. My blood pressure will thank me, my jaws might stop aching, and I might even lose that recently acquired eyelid tic.

Here’s hoping.

(BTW: Today is National Dog Day, but we’re going to let a couple of cats slip in here, too.)

Sebastian and Chules are hiding under the bed in response to my rendition of Neil Diamond’s Sweet Caroline.

Finnigan has a very colorful personality.

My cat Thursday is trying to look adorable so that I will feed her a second breakfast.

Chules is learning to play chess.

Bella in the snow

Sebastian is out from under the bed.

Chules and his buddy Brisco

Ahhh, I feel much better now.

I wish you all restful and pleasant moments this weekend.

Shalom.