Stories That Feel Like Home

A growing collection of children's stories inspired by furry friends,
celebrating kindness, connection, and belonging.

The Story that Started It All

Rocket was more than a yellow lab; he was a constant presence in Cindy’s life. Their days were shaped by long walks, quiet routines, and an adventurous spirit that showed up in the simplest moments. Rocket loved the beach, lived for retrieving a ball, and never missed a chance to dress the part for special occasions. He even had a habit of sneaking off for secret strolls to visit his cousin Marley, a black lab who shared his love for play and companionship.

Through every season, Rocket added warmth to Cindy’s heart and home. He offered comfort without asking, joy without condition, and a steady reminder of how deeply animals can shape our lives. Those everyday moments—playtime, companionship, laughter—became the foundation of a story that wanted to be told.

After years of corporate work, Cindy felt a pull to try something new. Writing a children’s book became a way to honor Rocket, to explore her love of storytelling, and to share the gentle lessons he lived so naturally. Rocket Gets a Home is the first step in that journey. A story inspired by a very good dog and written for the children and families who know how much love a dog can bring.

Yellow Labrador Retreiver Comfy and Upside Down with his Paws in Facing You

From Cindy

When the next step isn’t obvious, sometimes the story finds you.

In this first Author’s Column, Cindy shares what unfolded after retirement, loss, and a stretch of sleepless nights, and how an unexpected children’s story written in the early hours became a renewed sense of purpose.

Books

A growing collection of children’s stories inspired by furry friends, celebrating kindness, connection, and belonging.

Available March 2026

Available December 2025

Rocket Goes to School

Rocket Gets a Home

Rocket Goes to School is a gentle, rhyming children’s book about a playful young dog learning new rules at training school and discovering how patience, consistency, and love help him thrive at home.

Rocket Gets a Home is a gentle, rhyming children’s story inspired by Cindy’s beloved yellow lab. Written with love, it celebrates belonging, friendship, and the joy of finding home.

Activities with Rocket

Enjoy a free Rocket Goes to School coloring page, a simple, creative way to spend a little extra time with Rocket as he begins his learning adventure.

Designed for young hands and big imaginations (and the little kid in all of us who still likes to color), this printable page is perfect for a cozy afternoon, a classroom activity, or a quiet moment inspired by patience, learning, and a playful puppy.

Download the free coloring sheet and practice a little patience with Rocket.



Connect with Cindy Metzger on Goodreads

Readers can now find Rocket Gets a Home and Rocket Goes to School on Goodreads. Visit the page to explore the books, read reviews from other readers, and share your own thoughts about Rocket’s adventures.

Let's Connect

A note, a question, or a kind hello is always welcome.

Join Cindy on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for story updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and gentle reflections inspired by Rocket.