Her and Her Dogs

plus the cat

NOT YOUR TYPICAL WISH LIST

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CREATE YOUR ONLINE WISHLIST – ACCESSIBLE TO FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

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My in-laws will be here for Christmas this year.  It will be the first time in more than a decade that we have celebrated together. In that time, we’ve had the same, traditional gift of a case of wine delivered to them, each year.

SURPRISE! Not.

My husband and I also stopped doing stockings, and Christmas presents, years ago.  We tend to find something we like or need, and say, “that’s your Christmas present.” It wasn’t until asked to provide a wish-list, for my in-laws, that I remembered how much fun we were missing out on.  Last year was exceptionally quiet; undecorated, and uncelebrated.  We had just moved into our new house, the month prior, and I could not bring myself to look at, or unpack, another box.

We had the equivalent of Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree as our holiday decor

This year, as we will all be together, I am going OTT with my decorations, and, according to my husband, our budget.  I’m also looking forward to sharing gifts that, would not ship well.

Initially, I struggled with the task of creating my wish-list. It felt weird; as if I was asking, or expecting these things to be purchased for me.  Another challenge was finding items from, or shippable to the UK (for my in-laws to then bring over in their suitcase).

I changed my approach and started to create MY wish-list, FOR ME!

organizer – on my wishlist

I filled it with things I knew I would enjoy rather than, exclusively, practical, useful things.  ‘Practical’ was the type of things my husband and I bought ourselves, for Christmas.

Just as I was in full swing, and having fun creating my list, I had to stop.   The elves in in-laws needed time to review the list, and should they choose, place their order.

Of course, after copying links to a word document, I stumbled across this WishList site that allows you to create your list(s), and add to it, throughout the year.

There is no charge to create a WishList, with up to 10 Wishes. For unlimited Wishes and cool features, register to become a Premium, WishList member.

Create profiles for yourself, family members, friends, (rescue) organizations or schools.

Ummm, how cute?!

Make beautiful pages with a story, background images, profile photos, and featured images.

Then create multiple WishLists under each profile.

Friends and family can find and access your list by searching your name or email address.  Or, you could be less than subtle and send them a direct link. Click here to view MY CURRENT WISHLIST

(did I mention it’s my birthday next week?!)

There are different ways to add wishes to your list:

+WishList.com Browser Button

+WishList.com app for iPhone® lets you add wishes from your favorite websites or by uploading pictures and descriptions.

+WishList.com app for Android® lets you add wishes from your favorite websites or by uploading pictures and descriptions.

Accept Contributions

Receive contributions for yourself, a cause important to you (Most RESCUES have wishlists), a school, a friend or a family member.

People can contribute money or items towards your whole WishList, a single Wish or a contribution goal you’ve set.

Manual Wish (my preferred method)

I can’t wait to see which friend selects this gift!

Add any Wish you can dream up, with the occasion, description, gift notes, images and more…

 

May all your wishes come true!

 

 

 

 

THANKSGIVING & THE BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN

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We use pumpkin all year round.  There are many benefits to including this low fat, low calorie, nutrient-rich vegetable in the entire pack’s diet.

My Little Pumpkin

Contains Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A
promotes eye health and prevents the development of night blindness and other degenerative eye conditions. Since Vitamin A is fat-soluble, feeding your dog pumpkin with a little healthy oil will make the nutrients more effective. Mix your pup’s pumpkin on top of his regular food, or mix in some flax or coconut oil. The oil will also help nourish their skin and coat.

Vitamin C
essential for immune health. When combined with vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin E and other antioxidants in pumpkin, it might help prevent certain cancers from developing.

Potassium
necessary for the proper functioning of enzymes, muscles, and nerves. It is also necessary to maintain a proper fluid balance throughout the body.

Antioxidant (must reiterate the importance of this)
Derived from the carotenoid family, pumpkin, absorbed into the cells fight free radicals, or “oxidants” in your pet’s system. Oxidants occur naturally in our immune systems. Too many oxidants can contribute to cancers and other illnesses.  By including natural, fresh sources of antioxidants, such as those found in pumpkin, you can boost your pet’s immune system.

Moisturizes
Another benefit of Vitamin A as well as zinc, is that they can help improve your pet’s skin and coat. The high water content in pumpkin flesh also contributes to supple skin and a luxurious coat.

Hydrates
Many dogs who consume a kibble the only diet suffer from mild, but chronic dehydration. Dry dog food has low moisture content . Pumpkin contains a high moisture content; by adding pumpkin to meals, you add more water to your dog’s diet.

Weight Loss Aid
The High Fibre content helps fill you up (great for helping mom and pup with weight loss goals). Pumpkins have a high moisture and fibre content, which makes them a powerful tool for your pet’s weight loss. Replacing a little of your dog’s regular food with canned pumpkin (a few teaspoons for a small dog up to half a cup with a large dog) can help your dog lose some excess weight. The fibre and water in the pumpkin will keep them full, so they don’t miss the extra calories.

Medicinal Purposes
Digestive Issues and Regularity
For upset stomachs, pumpkin will aid to tighten stool in the case of diarrhea, or loose stool if your dog is suffering from constipation.

Pumpkin Seeds Prevent Urinary Incontinence
As well as the pumpkin flesh, give your pet a taste of the seeds! Pumpkin seeds contain Omega 3 fatty acids. These have anti-inflammatory properties, which can assist with dislodging kidney stones. Pumpkin seed powder is used to prevent urinary incontinence (the reduced ability to hold in urine).

Tastes Great!
Like many people, dogs enjoy the rich, creamy consistency of pumpkin.

IMPORTANT!
Be aware of what you’re buying when you get canned pumpkin. Some spices are not good for dogs. I only use 100% pure pumpkin.

Always check the ingredients label if you’re not sure.

HOW TO SERVE PUMPKIN TO DOGS
Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, you may wish to consult your veterinarian for advice.

Portion Size: Ask your vet for guidance on appropriate portions. Depending on the size of your dog, and their current health issues, the recommended serving could be one tablespoon once a day, all the way up to 2-4 ounces at each meal.

Homemade Dog Food: Pumpkin is an excellent addition to homemade dog food. It can also be used in conjunction with rice to help with upset stomachs (see above).

Consider mixing pumpkin into your dog’s regular diet. Since you’re adding food, you may wish to reduce the amount of kibble or wet food you’re feeding them. Discuss options with your vet. I don’t recommend mixing pumpkin with a raw diet – consult your vet.

How Much Pumpkin:
Unless your pet suffers from diabetes, 1 tsp of canned (or cooked and pureed) pumpkin per 10lbs of body weight per day is a good standard to go by. If unsure, please consult a veterinarian.  For puppies and toy or underweight dogs, only feed pumpkin in very small amounts as a treat.

 

Happy Fall,

 

OOAK – 2015

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SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST

Here is a peak at just some of the unique, one of a kind items available at the One Of A Kind Show.  The OOAK show is held twice a year (Christmas time and Spring) in Toronto, Ontario Canada.  Don’t worry, most of these items are available for purchase all year long and can be shipped right to you! (click images for additional information)

From Toronto, with love…

Toronto

Miguel Freitas

 

candifactory

the CANDI factory

For Her…

baggypants

Baggy Pants

 

stickman

Stickman Creations

 

nipagandhi

Nipa Gandhi

 

bookhou

bookhou

Gifts…

doodleandhoob

Jill Bogart

 

soycandles

CAMPY

 

nadya

Nadya Edwards

For the home…

felted tea cozy

TriFly Design

 

atelier

Atelier Make

 

chat

 

eikam

eikam ceramics

 

eikam

eikam ceramics

 

ornaments

fire & flux

 

evelynrivest

Evelyn Rivest Savignac

 

twocentsparrow

Two Cent Sparrow

 

allfiredup

All Fired Up!

 

windowframes

Katherine O’Mally Greer

 

birdhouses

the saltbox shoppe

For the little ones…

velvet moustache

Velvet Moustache

 

minisouls

Mini Souls

 

cute stuff for kids

Cute Stuff For Kids

 

leather

Mally Designs

 

bathtowelsetc

Pico Charlie Cole

 

boogaloo

Boogaloo Bubbywear

 

Happy Monsters

CG Monsters

 

bunny banks

Thomas J. Suh Ceramics

 

babymagoo

Baby Magoo

Animal Art…

hills

Brianna’s Artwork

 

janethaitas

Janet Haitas

 

sheep

Michele Rose Artist

 

I hope we have inspired you with gift-giving ideas, not just for Christmas!

Thank you for window shopping with us,

signature5

 

 

 

 

 

Sincere apologies to the vendors whose creations were not shared in this post.   I try to introduce different items and vendors in each OOAK post we publish. So if not this time, perhaps after the spring, or 2016 winter show. We hope to see you there again!

For additional information about the vendors, and to purchase a ticket for the spring show, visit OOAK!

 

 

 

 

THE CRAZY PLATE LADY – PLATING & PRESENTATION

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INTRODUCING A COLLECTION OF GARNISHED DISHES BY JACQUELINE POIRIER

Ricky - a BEAUTIFUL work of art by Jacqueline Poirier

Ricky – a BEAUTIFUL work of art by Jacqueline Poirier

For me, Easter has been a time to gather with family, or at least connect with family via Facetime, Skype, or a good old-fashioned phone call.  I love everything about the time of year in which this holiday is celebrated.  Springtime means the colour of daffodils, tulips and hyacinths as well as grass (finally, after months of cold and snow)!  Easter egg hunts and too much chocolate, hot cross buns and other baked delights are enjoyed over the weekend.  And how we present these delights to our guests during holidays can be just as fun!

I met Jacqueline Poirier at The One Of A Kind Show, in Toronto, Ontario and marveled at the uniqueness of her creations.  CHARGER PLATES are Jacqueline’s canvas of choice on which she displays her beautiful, works of art.   A heaped serving of personality on each plate!

Ontario born and raised Jacqueline is the Resident Artist for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Toronto and infuses flare to the dining room of restaurant TOCA with her colourful designs.

 

Thank you so much, Jacqueline for creating this beautiful plate of Ricky, The Rooster, as one of your BEAUTIFUL works of art.  Thank you also for sharing the following information with us:

What inspires you?
I am inspired by anything and everything! Each day brings new excitement and challenges, so I try my best to “go with the flow” and paint what I am feeling in that moment. I am also very inspired by many of my clients stories and celebrations. Each custom order that I complete has a unique story or circumstance in which the plate is being created for. This is extremely motivating and inspiring for me as an artist. I am so happy to be a part of creating something special for my clients.

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?
I really love to paint people’s pets! I am a big-time animal lover, so I love to learn the names and ages of my furry painting subjects. I also really love to challenge myself and paint “food related” items on plates. It is fun, and whimsical, and often a conversation starter, as my intention is always to achieve photo realism when painting those items.

What is your preferred medium, why?
I absolutely love painting on plates! Until about 3 years ago, I had never experimented with painting on ceramics. I still enjoy painting on canvas and wood, although I have received the most amount of recognition around my plate art (Plart) and really enjoy the endless possibilities that await me!

Where is your favourite place to paint?
I love to paint in my studio downtown Toronto. There is beautiful high ceilings and lots of room to spread out and be creative! The natural light and surround sound speakers make for lots of fun and energizing music to keep me painting throughout the day. Sometimes I enjoy painting late night in my apartment, but this is only because my dog Jerry is asleep and not running around distracting me

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.
I really love to paint plates that are gifts to others – memorial portraits, pet portraits, landscapes of places traveled to, homes, cottages, favourite foods, or company logos. I am always amazed at the thoughtfulness that people go to when helping to create a memorable gift such as a custom plate. Each plate I create is extremely memorable to me, and I am sure to spend the most amount of time and effort to achieve my clients request. I treat every occasion as a special opportunity to gain trust and a lasting relationship with my clients. I feel very humbled to be in a position where I am part of creating a lasting memory for many people.

Is there anything (else) you would like people to know about Jacqueline Poirier?
I am the crazyplatelady!!!

Artist’s favourite colour?
Green. Although I sign all of my art work in red 🙂

To learn more about Jacqueline and to order you own custom plate, visit:

http://www.jacquelinepoirier.com/

TOCA
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Toronto/Dining/TOCA


#SPONSORED

Disclaimer: Her and her dogs received the beautiful plate of Ricky, from Jacqueline for posting about her beautiful and unique works of art. 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.

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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/

 

THE NORTH POLE IS LOCATED IN TORONTO, ONTARIO

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GIFT IDEAS (not just for Christmas)

OOAK

I’m normally very organized when it comes to shopping, ordering, wrapping and shipping of Christmas gifts.  Highly motivated by my lack of desire to bounce around like a pinball amongst the crowds; people that seem to appear from nowhere from mid-November.

For as long as the exhibition has been in existence, I have been building up the courage to attend the ONE OF A KIND SHOW.  I was informed the event has the most incredible and unique items you could ever imagine – and I soon learned there are just as many you never would!  The OOAK show, which takes place just before Christmas and again in the spring, is situated within the Direct Energy Centre in Toronto, Ontario.  I’m located less than an hour north of the city yet never made it to the show – until this year!  I’m such a fan I plan to go to the spring show too.  And why not; as well as a day of fun with friends for me, the event supports local causes..

Give local when you purchase your ticket to the show and support Ernestine’s Women’s Shelter as our dedicated charity for Christmas 2014

I invited friends to join me and offset the experience of jostling around in the crowds with several laughs and perhaps and couple of Christmas cocktails.  The organizors of the event know what they’re doing; the booths of more than 800 artisan exhibitors are lined up in rows from A – Z with fairly generous paths between the rows and separate break areas.  No anxiety and no captive Ball today!

Here are some of our fun finds for the Pet-Lover’s on your list;

Made in Brockton Village
I learned a valuable lesson at the show; if you find something that resonates with you BUY IT!  It most likely won’t be there when you make your way back to find it.  LOVED the small vintage typewriter print on wood at ‘Made in Brockton Village.’

my quick pics do not do justice to these works of art. Please visit their website!

my quick pics do not do justice to these works of art. Please visit their website!

http://www.madeinbv.com

Dotti Potts – Sandra Silberman
I will definitely be purchasing a piece from Sandra.  Decisions, decisions…

Dotti Potts http://www.dottipotts.com

Romy + Jacob = Colour + Fun!

R+J
http://www.romyandjacob.com

Jacqueline Poirier

OMD!!!  How fun are these?  You can definitely look forward to learning more about Jacqueline (check back soon…)
Jacqueline Poirier
http://www.jacquelinepoirier.com/

Ruckus Dog
Love vintage poster style!

Ruckus
http://www.ruckusdog.com

Sa Boothroyd

‘Home’ is on my bookshelf!

SB
http://www.saboothroyd.com

Colours By Chris Artware

Milk jugs, coffee mugs and more!

Milk jugs, coffee mugs and more!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Colours-By-Chris

Water In My Paint
Only a peak now – more later!

preview of future featured artist!

preview of future featured artist!

http://www.whenwatermeetspaint.com

Cat

Glass Blown Critters!

cat2cat
http://www.catherinelabonte.com

kiriki
Embroidery kits – of critters!

kiriki

photo courtesy of kiriki

kiriki2
http://www.kirikipress.com

Birdhouses by Don Hudgin

Birdhouses

(Montreal) 514-631-6416


The Silk Pulp

SILK PULP

Mono Ahnhttp://monoahn.com/Paper-cut-Illustration

SPARROW AVENUE
Beautiful soft furnishings

Sparrow Avenue
https://www.etsy.com/shop/sparrowavenue

Fusion Art – Art Glass by Nancy Legassicke
Fusion Artfusionartcanada@gmail.com

Magic Villa

ornaments, musical art, water bowls and more!

ornaments, musical art, water bowls and more!

 


http://www.magicvilla.ca

Even though Santa travels the world to deliver gifts, he need only visit the One Of A Kind Show to find something for everyone on his list (naughty or nice)!

Captive ball
A pinball trapped within a small area of the playfield. The captive ball never leaves this area, and the free ball can never enter it. However, the free ball can knock into the captive ball, which in turn can knock into targets in its area. Some tables even feature multiple stacked captive balls (e.g. Judge Dredd, Theatre of Magic).

http://www.oneofakindshow.com/artisans

http://www.oneofakindshow.com/toronto/index.php

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_pinball_terms

janet hill art – cards I love

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May your stocking be filled with all the treats you wish for!

May your stocking be filled with all the treats you wish for!

We received this is beautiful card from my parents.  I have an appreciation for the arts and was thrilled to learn this was the creation of a local (Ontario) artist, Janet Hill.  I look forward to introducing you to Janet and her portfolio early in the new year.

In the meantime, I can’t help smiling when I walk by this card.  Although adorable, I can’t think what made my mom think of us when she found it……..

Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays!

 

 

themes – cards I love

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One of the most interesting things about the season, to me, is opening cards.  Did the sender choose a design that reminded them of the recipient?  Or, perhaps it is a reflection of the sender.

I was thrilled to find this Carlton Cards collection at Walmart!

Dogs, cats, boutiques, Ontario snow, skating on Lake Simcoe, one of my favourite cities, New York can be seen in the background of one of the cards.

 

Hope it snows joy all through your holidays.

Hope it snows joy all through your holidays.

 

Celebrate the hope, joy, and wonder of Christmas all year long.

Celebrate the hope, joy, and wonder of Christmas all year long.

 

Happy everything, everywhere, to everyone this Christmas - and especially to you and yours!

Happy everything, everywhere, to everyone this Christmas – and especially to you and yours!

 

Enjoy all of the fun and excitement of the season.

Enjoy all of the fun and excitement of the season.

 

Surprise to anyone who hasn’t received their card from me yet – oops!

 

 

 

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