Life is about choices. A recent search for a durable chew for dogs led us to Appalachian Tails of Glastonbury, an independent business started in 2005 by a former corporate business analyst – aided by his black Labrador pup, Tuckerman.

From the store's blog by Bryan Winoski, owner of that store: “There’s always something new in the world of dog chews. From edible natural chews to durable man-made chews . . . we all know how important it is to give our dogs something safe to chew on . . . ”

Three choices are then detailed and that includes American Antler Dog Chews, sourced from naturally shed antlers of deer, elk, moose. Lightly sanded to remove points, a large antler is $16.99; medium, $13.99.

Note: Supervision with a pet – as with a human toddler – is an essential component of trying any product. We've linked a helpful article written by veterinarian Dr. Sherry Weaver about chews and diversions – all of which can be potentially harmful – here. If in doubt, talk to your own vet.

Dog Days for members at Old Sturbridge Village (OSV) is a privilege on Saturday, Jan. 7 and Sunday, Jan. 8 (also in February and March). Canines must be leashed and respect guests and OSV livestock. For well-behaved dogs and their owners this is a nice perk, especially to walk the grounds in winter. Membership starts at $50 (one person; $90 for a family) and supports this nonprofit educational institution. OSV collections, exhibits, and programs present the story of everyday life in a small New England town during the years 1790 to 1840. Note: Owners must present valid rabies certificate upon arrival and dogs are not allowed inside the buildings. No guest dogs.

Choices lead to responsibility – being a pet owner, as a parent, or a member of the community. Each adds or subtracts to life overall.

A sustainable lifestyle is “satisfying, fulfilling and rewarding because it is environmentally, socially and economically responsible,” according to the National Network for Sustainable Living Education.

The Middletown Regional Agriculture Science and Technology Center will offer a lecture series to grow knowledge of soil and helpful creatures, create awareness of invasive species, or enhance beauty in life – or your yard. Classes are free and meet Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m. at Middletown High School Agriculture Center, 200 LaRosa Lane.

Jan. 17 – “Composting and Vermi-Composting” with Charles Tefft, master composter and advanced master gardener. Basics of recycling organic household wastes into a rich soil improvement; composting with worms (vermi-composting).

Jan. 24 – “Homeowner Tree Care” with Dr. Jeffrey Ward from the Connecticut Agriculture Experiment Station and specialist in native trees and shrubs. Basics of planting, maintaining and pruning trees and shrubs in a home landscape.

Jan. 31 – “Creating Your Own Herbal Body Care Products,” Anne Buchanan, owner of Anne’s Good Stuff. Learn how to use the herbs in your garden to create herbal infusions; make salves, lotions and lip balms. Each participant will leave with recipes and samples in addition to the products created in class.

Feb. 7 – “Soil and Earthworms,” Dr. Wade Elmer from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. Earthworms and their importance in processing organism matter, increasing soil health and suppressing soil-borne diseases in vegetable gardens.

Feb. 16 (Thursday) – “Invasive Insects that Threaten Connecticut,” a special presentation by Dr. Kirby Stafford, entomologist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. How to identify insects that threaten landscapes and what we all can do to prevent them.

Call (860) 704-4599 for details. Note: If Middletown public schools are closed or dismissed early due to weather, the session for that evening will cancel.