Can Cats Treat Chronic Illness?

As spoonies, sometimes (okay, a lot of the time) it's hard to go out and socialize. And even if we're introverts, being alone all the time can have a negative impact on our mental health. That's where pets come in.

Furry friends are great company, and playing with them is known to cause the release of oxytocin, a hormone which increases self esteem, induces feelings of optimism, helps heal wounds and relieves pain [source]. Plus, recent studies show that your pet releases the same hormone when interacting with you. Proof that Kitty loves you just as much as you love her!

So what if you don't have a fur baby of your own?

Fortunately, June is Adopt-a-Cat Month. Each spring, or "kitten season", thousands of kitties are born, with many of them joining the millions of adult felines already in shelters by summer. For this reason, June is the ideal time to find the perfect addition for your family.

Check out the American Humane Association's checklist for adopting a cat.

How does your pet help you cope with chronic illness?

Black & Magenta: What I Wore 17.1.2012

Magenta crinoline & black cat photo-bombing... This shoot was a lot of fun (especially thanks to my cat, Edward, who wanted snuggles mid-way through!).

What I Wore:
T-Shirt: Old Navy
Crinoline: eBay
Leggings: Forever 21+
Bag: Danier

All photos belong to RebeccaEsther.com.

T-Swift, Tea & Terrible Sex: Link Love 3.2.2012

I love that, on a Starbucks run, Taylor Swift looks stylish but casual, like a "regular person".

Thoughts During Terrible Sex is good for a laugh.

7 Reasons You Should Love Tea.

Wolfmother from Adam Bilsing on Vimeo is unbelievable.

These outfits inspired by Marie of Disney's The Aristocats is purrfectly chic and adorable.

Canadian Stopsicle is pretty cool.

I love tights, especially really brightly coloured or unique ones. Some of these are a little too out there, though. What do you think?

Dianna Agron's SAG Awards look was beautiful. Here's how to emulate it.

This letter penned by E.B White is superb.

Have a great weekend, gorgeous!

Link Love 27.5.2012

Lego man in space, slap bracelets, a very smart cat & more!!

It's Friday! Time for some Link Love:

I really like these t-shirts... And if you're fat & fabulous like me, you will, too!

Why I Don't Own a Scale from Lovelyish is great. The way your body feels is more an indicator of health than the number on the scale, so I agree with this article. Do you?

You should follow CatFoodBreath on twitter. He's one smart feline. Check out the conversation we had the other day:

Ooh, these slap bracelets are nifty!

Two Toronto 17-year-olds sent a Lego man into space. How incredible is that?! (The Canadian flag was a nice touch).

Have a great weekend, gorgeous!

Jason Wu for Target

I'm starting to get excited about Jason Wu's soon-to-be-released line for Target, aren't you? I especially love the piece above, the Milo the cat bag.

The Budget Babe has a whole list of the line's accessories (including pictures!). Prices range from $19.99-$49.99US and will be available 5 February.