Her and Her Dogs

plus the cat

A DOG’S PURPOSE

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A Dog's Purpose
Who says only cats have nine lives?

In this beautiful story ‘A Dog’s Purpose,’ written by W. Bruce Cameron, we learn of one dog’s many lives; some lives are brief, and others end tragically.  Each glimpse of a lifetime, however, is heart-warming and provides insight touching on everyday, real-life situations lived by dogs we all know or at least know of.

The story is told from the dog’s perspective.  Perhaps that is why it is so emotionally powerful.  Although there are several laugh-out-loud moments, be warned, this emotional story is a real tear-jerker.

You will want to put this book down several times while ready the story. ONLY to hug your dogs and hold them close

So far, ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ is my absolute favourite book – of any genre.  This book is not ‘a loaner,’ you will want to read this book more than once (and I RARELY read a book a second time).

The Purpose of a dog (no spoilers), is to love and to be loved.

Thank you, Mr. Cameron for writing and sharing this book – such a beautiful gift to the world.

IT’S A SIGN!

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MAKE PIE NOT WAR – introducing handcrafted jewelry by Alana Little

love & protect

love & protect

I love visiting the different shops on Etsy.  I’ll brew a pot of coffee or pour myself a cup of tea or a mug of hot chocolate or a glass of wine -depending on the day, time and my mood.  I can experience a day at the market in the comfort of my living room or patio.  In fact, I’m able to cover more ground this way and discover more treasures than I would on foot.

Shortly after introducing ‘The Awareness Project’ (see tab above), I came across Alana’s site.  Specifically, the ampersand sign bracelet.  My love and protect tattoo is featured on the inside of my forearm.  This beautiful piece of jewelry, also a conversation starter, will compliment the affirmation and adorn the reverse side of my arm.

The shop name ‘MAKE PIE NOT WAR’ is divine, as are the messages stamped into so many of Alana’s pieces

Make Pie Not War started in 2007 when Alana Little just couldn’t handle the corporate circus any longer! Desiring to be free, she jumped out into a scary world and started MPNW! She knew that with her degrees in Accountancy and Fashion Design, she could do it, and do it great! She daily puts on her apron to make gorgeous jewels for the radical lady (and men too! ). She knows that her company is one of many, but she fights through the immersed industry with her classic yet funky jewelry that is all handmade by her personally. She pours her love into each piece and each customer that comes her way! She loves to hunt the world for her treasures she uses to complete the perfect piece. Vintage trinkets, precious metals and gems, random natural elements.

It’s all fair game!


Alana is very generously offering a 15% discount to our followers! 

Use code: sadieandcostudiolove

https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/makepienotwar

 

Thank you Alana for this lovely gift and for telling us a bit more aout yourself:

What inspires you?
I’m a bit of a contradiction; classical art, Motown, geometric shapes, my daughter, vintage finds, the raw materials I use!

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?
I find myself constantly designing pieces that I can wear that have Something on it that reminds me of my daughter or husband. I am obsessed with cool mom pieces….

Where is your favourite place to create?
my newly remodeled woman cave with my lucite chandelier, barn wood, gold polka dots, and gold dipped tables.

Artists connect with the pieces they create. Please share with us the work(s) that are most meaningful to you (evokes positive or negative emotions) and why.
my braille pieces for sure evoke the strongest feelings in me. It started with a woman who had a friend whose husband passed away. She also told me that she was blind. The problem I had is that jewelry is mainly to be seen, so I figured out how to create Braille jewelry. My customer wrote me back a week later and she told me that her friend rubbed her fingers over the bumps and started to cry when she realized it was her husband’s name. Even now that brings tears to my eyes thinking about that woman.

Is there anything (ou would like people to know about Alana Little?
I tell people to dream with a parachute. I was an accountant but now I create jewelry. Anything is possible if you create a great plan, work hard and stay positive.

#SPONSORED
Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received a product discount from MPNW for featuring available items. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

 

 

“if you can’t fly then run,

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if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”

– MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

Role models - Claire and Monty show us how it's done!

Role models – Claire and Monty show us how it’s done!

Who says running can’t be fun?
Especially, when your best friend is your running partner.

I always enjoyed walking; a form of physical exercise that can also have a mentally calming, and a mind-clearing effect.  I would walk forty minutes to work and back home at the end of the day.  I would walk with my husband in the evenings and with friends and friends with dogs on the weekends.  Now, I enjoy daily walks with my dogs.

Even though he’s small, Henry has an abundance of energy, and he loves to run, full throttle along some of the beautiful trails we have in our area.  Unfortunately, he is not so good at recall (that’s me being kind; HE CAN NOT BE TRUSTED).  So, for Henry to be able to fly like the wind, one of his people has to be at the end of his leash!

Anyone, who has attempted to become a ‘runner’, knows this title is not assumed overnight.  It takes time to build speed, and stamina, and proper technique so as not to injure yourself.

I started out by joining a running group and met new friends in the process.  Such groups are becoming quite popular; if there’s not one in your area, why not start your own?  Guides and other tools are readily available online.

One such group is The Running Room.  Although dogs are not invited to participate, there are several groups you and your companion can join later.  When you’re able to keep up with your dog!

For information about upcoming workshops, visit http://www.runningroom.com/

Our friends Claire and Monty, are great examples of teamwork and as you can see from the video, both truly enjoy the experience.   Claire shared with us the following sentiment;

We have been running canicross for about 14 months now. We run as part of Ashridge Canicross Club and we run on a Wednesday night (in the dark) and Sat mornings when my shifts allow. We have competed quite a few races in 2014. 

All our runs are on the trails and many normal running races are now allowing Canicrossers to take part as it is becoming so popular.

The photo and Video is from Ashridge Club race weekend. As a club it was our first race that we had organised and it went really well. We love it because it keeps us both fit, great socialisation for Monty and the bond between us since we started running together is something I can’t really describe.

I thought we had a great partnership before but since being involved in this our friendship has gone up another level. He gives me his all when he is running and when he sees the harness coming out, he goes bonkers! And if he is happy I am happy.

Well done Claire and Monty; you have set a great example for the rest of us!

Photograph courtesy of Houndscape Photography – thank you Vicky Stipetic
http://houndscape.co.uk/

Ashridge Canicross Club
http://ashridgecanicrossers.org.uk/

 

 

circuit training, crossfit & bootcamp

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FAST-PACED, HARD CORE AGILITY FOR PEOPLE – WITHOUT THE TREATS!

NO DEALI could not agree more.  One reason most people fail at resolution #2 is because the reward is not tangible.  Don’t get me wrong, I love how I feel after a good workout – a form of exercise where I feel I’ve pushed myself to my limits, not towards a ‘near death’ experience.  It’s good to feel the reminder of my efforts over the next couple of days, but not to the point where I have to crawl because my legs and back are waving a white flag!

Henry’s agility trainer says

Your dog has to consider you more exciting than dirt!

You may think this odd and yet; it makes perfect sense.  Dogs are easily distracted by scent.  If someone in the agility class prior to us had dropped a treat, and even if that treat had been picked up, the scent would still be there.  Dogs in the following class may find the search and rescue (hope of consuming said treat) far more interesting than you trying to give them a command to do something.  Produce a high-value treat however (incentive), and I can get Henry to do anything I ask.  By simply showing, and letting him sniff that tiny piece of burger, Henry will ‘jump’, ‘dig’, ‘back’, ‘over’, ‘tunnel’ and ‘target (for a count of 5)’ all for that tiny little reward.

I am, like most people, motivated to do something if I can see even a tiny glimmer of hope soon after putting in the effort.  Yes, I realize chocolate and wine are counterproductive incentives.  For anyone who has tried circuit training, crossfit, and bootcamp, you know how much effort is required and yes, the results are amazing.  In the long run.

If you’re also looking for less ‘hard-core’ methods that you can enjoy from the start, why not try agility training?  A form of exercise you can enjoy with your dogs, all year ’round.  We work outdoors for as long as we can and when our Ontario winters kick in we move inside to a dome  Physical activity for both of you.  I know I’m more likely to stick with something that I find enjoyable.

Agility Training 

Henry and I have been attending agility classes for more than a year, and we both love it!

Henry squeals with excitement when we turn into the parking lot.  Veronica Evers-Doyle, ABCDT from Zephyr Canines Inc., is Henry’s trainer.  Veronica has this to say:

“A tired dog is a good dog” may be generalizing, but it often proves to be true. When you share your life with high-energy dogs as I do, you will quickly learn that they are easier to live with when they have a good exercise regime. Every dog has different requirements but most dogs need at least 2 good exercise sessions per day. Some dogs will be content with a 20 minute walk twice a day, while others will require at least 2 hours of vigorous daily exercise. Exercise can be a variety of things. A brisk walk, playing fetch, frisbee, hiking, or a dog sport.

Exercise should also include some daily mental stimulation. Many people work their dog physically, but fail to work their brain. A dog who is tired mentally and physically should be able to truly relax at home. For mental exercise you can do some refresher work on their obedience, trick training, or treat puzzles.

Dog sports can be a great way of exercising your dog physically and have the benefit of involving you in the process. Many dog sports also require some physical commitment from you as their handler, but don’t let that worry you. Most dog sports don’t require you to be a triathlete, just that you be able to direct them as needed.

Activities that are a great physical outlet for your dog while not requiring you to be as active yourself include lure coursing, field (ideal for “sporting” dogs including retrievers, spaniels and setters ) and dock diving. If your dog needs something that is more mentally challenging consider obedience or scent detection.

If you are looking for an activity that will really challenge both you and your dog you might want to consider agility. Agility is a great way to find a balance between working your dog physically and mentally, but it also helps you connect with your dog as you direct them around the designated course. You’ll need to commit to a regular schedule of classes (usually once per week) but the time and effort is well worth it.

A typical agility run will involve directing your dog around a course of obstacles including jumps, tunnels, teeter totter, as well as “contact” obstacles that they must climb. Some agility teams go on to compete in agility trials, but that is certainly not a requirement. Many people do agility just for the love of the game and for the connection they can build between themselves and their dog.

In warmer days

In warmer days

Unfortunately, we’ve been benched lately due to Henry’s ‘condition.’  We’re looking forward to starting back next week!

http://www.zephyrcanines.ca/

ABCDT – Animal Behaviour College Certified Dog Trainer (Private College)

 

puppy steps

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OUR TOP 3 RESOLUTIONS FOR 2015!

RESOLUTIONS FOR THE NEW YEAR

1. Diet

2. Exercise

3. Reduce Stress

Stress reduction is among the top resolutions in researched polls. However, I may or may not have manipulated it into  the #3 position (blogger’s right).

FAILURE IS AN OPTION –  so is success!

Based upon (many) years of personal experience, I site the following two reasons for failed resolutions:

1. Lack of preparation

2. Setting unrealistic goals

3. The third reason and my favorite, from Kristi Hedges, leadership coach, speaker and author

We fail because we always expected to. We live up (or in this case down) to our own expectations. Then we can pull out all of our familiar excuses of being too busy, overwhelmed, or inadequate to face the challenge. It also plays into the cynical zeitgeist which supports the gravitational pull of the status quo.

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

1. Visualize and stay focused on your goals

2. Eliminate the pressure by giving yourself a realistic timeline to achieve your goals.  It doesn’t have to be all or nothing – remember the tortoise and the hare?!

3. Celebrate the small victories.  How many of you have been told ‘you are your own worst critic?’  Give yourself a pat on the back for the small successes.  Recognizing and overcoming a negative thought pattern may not seem like a big deal when in fact, it’s HUGE!

Join us throughout the month of January as we put our best paw forward and share tips on health and wellness for pets and their people.

Practice makes perfect.  Puppy Steps!

http://www.forbes.com/sites/work-in-progress/2012/01/03/why-your-new-years-resolution-will-fail-by-february-1/

I love resolutions #15 and #20, and some made me chuckle (#18) – thank you to the UK survey group for your honesty!http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/best-new-year-resolutions-top-2955595

This is a great list!
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20452233_11,00.html

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/wired-success/201012/why-new-years-resolutions-fail

http://www.statisticbrain.com/new-years-resolution-statistics/

 

obx 2014 – a distant memory

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FEATURING THE COROLLA WILD HORSES

OBX

This year we did something a bit different for our holiday.  A ‘family’ holiday.  Not just the ‘Parker Pack’, the majority of the clan!

Sister, with her husband and two small children, picked Granny and Granddad up from the airport nearest them and also travelled by car to Outer Banks, North Carolina.

Henry, Reese, hubby and I packed up the truck and headed out to join them.  We made one stopover en route just outside Washington.  Next day we collected Father-in-law and his lady friend from the airport a little more than an hour from our rented accommodation.  The long story version includes luggage issues and a second trip to the airport.  We’ll stick with the shorter version.

My husband scored points for finding The Dolphin Inn.  This beautiful seven bedroom home located in Southern Shores, North Carolina  sleeps 17.  Our group consisted of 8 adults, two children, and two dogs.  Yes, The Dolphin Inn is Pet-friendly and has a Fenced-In Dog Kennel Area under Live Oak Tree for shade.

Staying at The Dolphin Inn is like staying at a friend’s place – and from now on when we visit, we will be staying at a friend’s place.  Our host Jorge Herrada checked in with us to make sure we had everything we needed and provided so many suggestions regarding places to visit and things to see and do.  Thank you, Jorge!

Dolphin Inn

The layout is perfect – you certainly don’t feel as though you’re tripping over each other.  The spacious kitchen, dining area with large table and plenty of seating  and great room are all open on the top level.  The great room boasts a selection of books, games, movies, a gas Fireplace, and a Large Screen Television with an abundant selection of Movie Channels (HBO, Showtime, Cinemax), a Tivo/DVR, and free Netflix shows.  If you need to stay connected to work amenities also include free wireless internet.  Budding astronomers in your group will enjoy the 70MM Refractor Telescope on the top level, set up to capture the galactic views on one of the many clear evenings.

Location

The accommodation is situated just over a block to the ocean (a nice little walk with the dogs) and with decks framing the Inn, there is no shortage of picturesque views of the ocean.  The Inn has a private pool, hot tub, volleyball court and pirate ship playhouse for the kids.  View of deer not guaranteed but a definite bonus!

Windblown Pups

Windblown Pups

The Beach

Guest privileges include Golf Club membership at the local Kilmarlic Golf Course, Bowling Club membership at the Outer Banks Bowling Center, as well as free boat launching at a nearby Marina.  There is also free Tennis at the private tennis courts nearby and discounted rates on several other activities such as the wild horse tours.

We made several trips to visit the quaint town of Duck, which is located just over two miles North of Southern Shores.  We rented kayaks from Kitty Hawk Kites (located in Duck) and enjoyed the beautiful views while burning off a few of the calories consumed at some of the local eateries.

Kayaking

One additional shop to mention is ‘Salty Paws Biscuits ‘ for All Natural Dog Treats!

Kitty Hawk, located just two miles south is convenient for groceries and other conveniences.

During our stay, we also visited Currituck Beach Light Station.  Henry & Reese waited with Granny as John (hubby) and I ventured up the 220 steps to view the horizon at the top.  It seems Henry & Reese were as much of an attraction to other visitors as the lighthouse!  I’m sure Henry enjoyed the attention.

Inside the lighthouse

Lloyd Vernon Gaskill (and his companion) - Lighthouse Keeper 1939 - 1940

Lloyd Vernon Gaskill (and his companion) – Lighthouse Keeper 1939 – 1940

Lighthouse

The one definite thing on my list to do was the Corolla Wild Horse tour.  The Spanish Mustangs living in Outer Banks are the last in the world.  We booked our tour with Corolla Outback Adventures.  Proceeds from the tours are used to ensure the herd of wild Colonial Spanish Mustangs are protected, and responsibly managed. The tour company was founded by the Bender family who also generously donated a large portion of land on the northernmost Currituck Outer Banks where the horses roam freely.

Our history began in 1962 when the Benders began taking folks on tours from Kill Devil Hills to Corolla, there was no paved roads past Kitty Hawk to Duck, and phone numbers had 4 digits.

Over the years Corolla Outback Adventures has preserved a family history and tradition that was started in 1962 by my mother and father. Bender’s Beach Service guided fishing, hunting and sightseeing parties, sharing with them the beauty of the area we call home.

Growing up beyond where the road ends has given me an entirely different perspective. Things may change around us but this area remains timeless. Our family donated over 60 acres of land as a Wild Horse Sanctuary and we are fortunate to have exclusive access to observe them in their natural habitat.

I hope you’ll join us on our next OBX wild horse tour!

– Joan Bender, Owner & Jay Bender, Manager

Travel Buddies

Scars of life

Wherever you go...

Cattle Egrets perch on the backs of the wild Mustangs. The horses welcome them as the Egrets feast on bugs, horse flies, and ticks, keeping them away from the horses.

The Other Outfit

Tour

At one time (centuries ago), these tree stumps (buried far beneath the sand) were part of a Maritime Forest.

Maritime Forest
After the tour we enjoyed a beverage in the ‘Beer Garden.’
Beer GardenHenry & Reese were quite happy to relax at the Dolphin Inn when their people were out doing ‘people things.’  As you can see, there were plenty of opportunities to take them out (and wear them out) on other occasions.  OBX offers the best of both worlds.  A ‘dog-friendly’ holiday destination.  We will visit again.

http://www.dolphininnobx.com/default.html

https://www.corollawildhorses.com/

http://corollaoutback.com/

http://www.corollabeergarden.com/

http://www.currituckbeachlight.com/

http://www.saltypawsbiscuits.com

 

 

YOU’RE MY BEST FRIEND

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You’re my best friend

You're My Best Friend
I can relate to the children who struggle with school.  I loved art, english, writing, and music, but math was a challenge for me.  I clearly remember an altercation that occurred one day in school; all the other children were sent out to play after lunch.  I was asked to stay behind by the teacher – Mrs. B.  To make matters worse, the teacher’s pet Tracy was also asked to remain in the room.  Mrs. B. then proceeded to point out errors I had made on a recent math test.

Instead of seeing this as an opportunity to correct my mistakes, I felt as if I was under attack, and the two of them were ganging up on me.  I tried to stand up for myself in one instance where my continental ‘7′ was mistaken for a ‘9.’  The answer was correct, but it did not matter.  I can still see the sneer on Mrs. B’s face as she turned and asked Tracy’s opinion; did Tracy believe the number was, in fact, a seven?  Of course not – teacher’s pet!

I felt humiliated and incredibly angry.  There were other 7’s on the page to refer to.  It was obvious to me that the number was, in fact, a ‘7.’

My parents hired a tutor to help me learn my numbers and would give me math books as birthday and Christmas presents.  These were not appreciated and remained unread.  I wonder where those books ended up.

Library Dogs are near and dear to my heart.  Tails are Wagging would like to become involved with and support such programs.  I have Mentioned Therapy Dog Training with Henry’s trainer and hope to get him into the program.  I also look forward to meeting with the Ontario Provincial Therapy Dog Coordinator, with St. John Ambulance to discuss the ‘Paws 4 Stories’ component of their program.   I hope our book ‘Henry says, “Hello” can help raise funds for this program.

It’s too bad there aren’t therapy dogs for math.  I would have loved a little ‘Einstein’ buddy.  As someone who struggled as a child, and understands the frustration and emotional turmoil of such struggles, I was thrilled to learn about Paws 4 Stories.  This program provides children with a non-hostile learning environment and non-judgmental, patient reading companions.  Therapy Dogs will sit and listen to a child as they read the same sentence over, and over until they get it right.  Instead of feeling stupid, ashamed and discouraged, children receive the support they need to become confident readers.

Check back later for more information about this program.

You’re my Best Friend – illustration

I adore chubby cheeks on children and could not resist exaggerating them in this illustration.

Henry meditates: he cuddles with his stuffed toy and exudes complete calm.  Sometimes I will sit with him and before long, I too feel completely at peace.  This illustration is particularly special to me: I look at this illustration and recognize the feeling of peace that Henry shares with others and the importance of encouraging children to read.

The tales on the bookshelf also have special meaning (more about these later)…

Bookshelf

http://www.sja.ca/English/Community-Services/Pages/Therapy%20Dog%20Services/Paws-4-Stories.aspx

COVER PUP

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The Cover Illustration – Henry and Pumpkins

Henry with Pumpkins - unfinished

Henry with Pumpkins – unfinished

 

Henry with Pumpkins

Henry with Pumpkins

This illustration was inspired by a photo taken during one of Henry’s Birthday celebrations – one of my favourite photos.

Henry is giving my friend Lourdes (the photographer) a huge ‘toothy’ Henry grin.  Those smiles are contagious!

FIRST AND LAST

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Henry in Window

Henry in Window

This illustration (pen and ink, pointalisim with watercolour), was inspired by one of my favourite photographs.  The photo was taken at my parent’s house during Christmas holidays.  There is a big park in the middle of a crescent – I imagine Henry was watching the squirrels frolicking in the snow.  In the story, Henry is watching the children on Halloween night.  Looking to the stars, Henry makes a wish.  You’ll have to read the book to learn what that wish is.

A PAGE OUT OF THEIR BOOK

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Children & Dogs

A page from the book ‘Henry says, “Hello”

The above images are from our photo shoot to create marketing images for the book ‘Henry says, “Hello.”  The children arrived, smiling.  Immediately they started playing with the dogs – it was so natural and incredible to watch.  The dogs appeared comfortable in the presence of the children.  When children behave respectfully around dogs, it is an enjoyable experience for everyone.

These are not only campaign models; they are role-models.  We should all take a page out of ‘their’ book.

My thanks to Ava, Henry, Jack, Alyssa, Jake, Cassandra and Reese.

 

Photographs courtesy of Nexus Photography www.nexus-photo.com

SUMMER – POOL PARTIES

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Let's get this party started!

Let’s get this party started!

What does one wear to a pool party?  If you’re a dog, I highly recommend this high quality, 100% weather resistant and totally waterproof collar by ‘Henry pet products’ (yes, we agree, it is a great company name).

Much research has gone into the making of this product.  The collars have also been vigorously tested by hardcore chewers and pullers, remaining intact and without a scratch or stretching.  Also tested through tough weather conditions, they have proven durable through Ontario winters and the heat and humidity of our summers.  Left outside for long periods, this product does not crack or fade.  Good thing as we love the vibrant pool party colours available; Hyper Orange, Hyper pink, and Hyper lime.  Royal Blue works too.   For other activities, there is also Olive green and Carbon.  The ‘no smell, quick dry’ quality makes the collars perfect for all occasions.

Good-buoy1-620x464 square

Cool Pool

Reese
Great looking, high-functioning collars for dogs!

http://henrypets.com

There is something completely alluring about the cool blue of a swimming pool, in the summer heat.  The way the reflection of light dances right out of the water.  I would be happy spending my days relaxing  in this tranquil environment, but I also love sharing it with friends.  Pool parties in the summer; vibrant coloured outfits and beverages (Cosmo cranberry, fruit punch red, vivid shades of orange, lemonade yellow and margarita lime)  against the blue and complimented further by lush greenery in the background.

 

The only thing missing is the music!

Here’s our poolside playlist – please comment adding your favourite summer song for the party (no explicit versions please):

1. Honey in The Sun – Camera Obscura (love the album art)

2. Put The Lime In The Coconut – Harry Nilsson

3. Will Smith – Summertime

4. Billy Idol – hot in the city

5. Bran Van 3000 – Drinkin in LA

6. Len – Steal My Sunshine

7. Will Smith – Welcome to Miami

8. Bob Marley – Three Little Birds

9. The Lovin’ Spoonful – Summer in the City

10. California Gurls – Katy Perry (feat. Snoop Dogg)

Pool

#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received collars from HENRY PETS for posting an honest review of this product. The feedback and opinions shared in this post are ours, in our words. We did not receive monetary compensation for this review, and it is our choice to share this product/service information.

Thank you for visiting our blog. We would love to hear from you; please send us a message or leave a comment beneath a blog post. If you know someone that might enjoy or benefit from the information, please ‘pin it,’ ‘post it,’ ‘tweet’ about it or simply share the link via email. Be sure you don’t miss future posts – sign up for email notifications.

 

YOU HAD ME AT WOOF

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'Woof'

The Starbucks in my neck of the woods, is a dangerous place; it creates a ‘relax, unwind, take your time’ sort of mentality. Not the mindset I should adapt when perusing the vast selection of books on display, in what I consider an earthly form of heaven, next door at Chapters. Perhaps I should compare it more to the garden, of Eden; I love reading (when I can find the time) and purchase on impulse, sometimes several delights per visit. As is the case with most of my wonderful assortment of books, they end up shelved, to be glanced at briefly, each week as I ‘swiffer’ over their spines. I make a promise to come back and rescue one from remaining of no more significance than the ornament or framed photo with which it shares the space.

True to my word, I did go back and pick ‘YOU HAD ME AT WOOF’, written by author Julie Klam. I am delighted to share with you my review of this wonderful, incredibly well-written, book.

Reading Julie’s story is like listening to a girlfriend share, first-hand, her hilarious and at times, heart-wrenching experiences with dogs – specifically, Boston Terriers. I could definitely share a bottle of wine and several laughs, or tears, I’m sure, with this witty and kind-hearted person.

We first meet Julie, as a single girl living in New York City.  Her story and life-changing experiences, are shared over a period of more than four years – yet, as I read through the pages, it seemed no time passed before I reached the back cover. This incredibly honest, heart-felt account of Klam’s trials and tribulations, gives much insight about what is involved in working with rescue organizations; a multitude of issues, and inevitabilities associated with animal welfare, rescue, shelters, fostering, and dog-ownership, in general. Anyone who has, or previously had an animal companion will relate – those involved with animal welfare, concernedly so.   When it comes to animal welfare, it’s so often hard not to be judgemental, and react adversely to people.  Julie is relatable to readers; with her her down-to-earth personality and non-filtered sharing of personal opinions, she lends humour and/or empathy to each situation.

In this book ‘You had me at woof’, Julie Klam shares with us, what is in my opinion, one of life’s most valuable lessons; ‘How Dogs Taught Me the Secrets of Happiness’.

 

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