Her & Her Dogs

PLUS THE CAT - RESCUES ADVOCATING FOR RESCUES

VIVIAN’S ART

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I fist had the pleasure of meeting Vivian through blogging.  I love that on her blog, Viv shows us how she creates her beautiful works of art – more than a glimpse into the process.  Below, I have put together a gallery of some of her pieces.  Thank you Vivian for sharing.

What inspires you?

Inspiration for me can come in any form. I mostly paint animals and particularly like trying to capture a moment in time or a certain expression the animal may have. For me the challenge is to try to capture a bit of the subject’s personality in paint.

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?

My favorite subject is animals. More specifically dogs and cats. The unique relationships between a dog or a cat and their human companions always intrigues me. These two species have been domesticated in a way that no other animal has. It really amazes me just how closely humans can work with dogs in so many areas of life and work and how much companionship a cat can bestow on people of any age.

What is your preferred medium, why?

I work in watercolor, pastel and acrylic. Watercolor is really my favorite medium. It has taken me years to learn how to manipulate the paint to get the results I like but the time and effort has been worth it. I love the translucent quality of the paint and the way the white of paper making it seem to glow. This glowing quality is very beautiful when doing an animal’s eyes where most of the emotion and personality is expressed.

Where is your favourite place to paint?

Recently I converted my formal dining room into a studio. I have a large eat in type kitchen for entertaining so the formal dining room was never used. I love painting here because I have a huge double window that overlooks my backyard. I have a small pond I can see from my window as well as all the birds, squirrels and chipmunks that visit my bird feeders. I have painted some of the birds that frequented my feeders. Our winter was particularly cold this year and one of the squirrels would actually come to my window and look for me when the feeder was empty! I am I am going to paint him next!

Is there anything (else) you would like people to know about Vivian?

For me painting is all about emotional connections. Connecting to your subject, your client and the viewer. I enjoy creating something special for my clients that will last a lifetime. There is nothing that makes me happier than to succeed in making these connections and pleasing the people that enjoy my work. The biggest thrill is when I know I have done my job well and perhaps made a friend along the way.

Artist’s favourite colour?

RED. I love red. Oddly enough I rarely use red in my paintings. It is such a strong and vibrant color a little goes a long way.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ViviansART?ref=si_shop

http://viviansart.typepad.com/my-blog/2014/04/dogwood-demo.html

JANET HILL ART

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Just before Christmas I shared with you the beautiful holiday card I received from my mother. That card, a gift in itself, was the creation of the incredibly talented Janet Hill. Janet’s work is romantic, chic and glamorous – it reminds me of ‘Old Hollywood’.

After viewing the collection, I knew I would be ordering other pieces. I would pick two – but WHICH two? Christmas was nearly five months ago and I’m still unable to make up my mind. I think they will feature ‘Miss Moon’. What do you think?

Check out the links below to view the entire collection.


Thank you Janet for sharing with us.

What inspires you?

Old movies, dog walks, and currently lifestyle photography from the 1960s

Do you have a favourite subject(s)? If so, what is it about that subject that speaks to you?

I paint a pretty wide range of subjects but I tend to focus quite a bit on women and animals. I’m a dog lover, so there are plenty of dogs featured in my paintings.

What is your preferred medium, why?

Oil paint. I like the richness of oil paint and the slow drying time.

Where is your favourite place to paint?

I only have one place that I paint which is in my back hallway. My easel is right by the screen door, so in the summer it feels almost like I’m painting in my backyard.

Artist’s favourite colour?

Kelly Green

http://janethillstudio.com/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/janethillstudio?section_id=all

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’.

 

B-I-N-G-O

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There was a farmer had a dog,
And Bingo was his name-o.
B-I-N-G-O!
B-I-N-G-O!
B-I-N-G-O!
And Bingo was his name-o!

Chubby is one of many Boston Terriers being rehomed through Boston Terrier Rescue Canada

Chubby is one of many Boston Terriers being rehomed through Boston Terrier Rescue Canada

(Record scrrrrrrrratcccccchhh)

This post has nothing, and EVERYTHING to do with dogs (and cats).

I’d like to tell you about a different kind of B-I-N-G-O, and a different kind of Boston.  Music B-I-N-G-O, was the name of the game at my local Boston Pizza.  General Manager, Shawn Parkinson doubles as d.j. for the event, which packs a pretty full house.  I love music, especially the older tunes so what could be better than a few drinks, and a trip down memory lane, jammin’ to the music?  A one-man comedy act performed by said d.j.  This evening of light entertainment also packs some pretty hefty benefits for local causes.

Tricia Soulier, of Pawsitive Approach Pet Services Inc. was having lunch at Boston Pizza when she learned of the community program.  Daniel Landry, team member at Boston pizza, explained the program to her.  Tricia, who, as well as walking Henry, Reese and other dogs in the community, is also on the advisory committee of the local animal shelter and has been an ‘off-site’ volunteer for the shelter for more than fifteen years.  Therefore, it is hardly surprising that Tricia decided to set up an “account” to raise funds for Georgina Animal Shelter. Tricia explains that “Being a Town facility they are not permitted to ask for donations. I however am free to do so. I set this up so that the cheque comes to me. It will be used for veterinary and medications/medical supplies only.”  Tricia has been promoting the program via Facebook, emails, Twitter, as well as, word of mouth.

All I had to do, was write the name of the organization I wished to support on the back of my receipt, and drop it in the ‘Earn Back’ box on my way out.  Boston Pizza then donates 10% of my bill to my selected cause!

BP

Afun night with a cause!

Afun night with a cause!

Trish, you are a shining example within the community.  I hope others will follow your lead and take the initiative to set up programs within their communities also.

Pawsitive Approach Pet Services Inc.
http://pawsitiveapproach.ca/

Georgina Animal Control
http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/on53.html

Thank you Boston Terrier Rescue Canada for sharing the adorable photo of Chubby – we hope he finds a loving home very soon:
http://www.bostonterrierrescuecanada.com/

And finally, thank you Boston Pizza for the ‘Earn Back’ programs;
http://bostonpizza.com/en/school-programs/fundraising/

 

 

HUCK – a tale of hope and faith

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my christmas miracle

my christmas miracle

 

I love to read – especially books about animals.  Admittedly, I don’t make enough time to do so.  That is why I was quite surprised to receive this charming book from a dear friend.  This dear friend is patiently waiting for several books lent to me from her library, and yet, she said ‘I saw it and thought of you’.

Before the arrival of the books main character Huck, we are introduced to his family.  They are relatable – we all know families like this one, and have experienced similar upsets within our own.

I knew what was coming, and almost didn’t want to read on.  At the same time, I couldn’t stop reading.  I’m so glad I continued.

‘Huck’ was the perfect story to read as the year came to an end; it inspired me, and gave me hope for the new year ahead.

Thank you Elaine xx

 

 

 

 

 

 

canadian thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving is one of my favourite celebrations.  During this holiday, I take time to reflect, upon all the things, and people, I am grateful for.  I am blessed, to have many friends, and a wonderful family.  I enjoy the work I do for the animals, and I look forward to the many opportunities this journey has provided, and possible ventures yet to come.

I am also, extremely grateful, to the incredible people I have come to know personally, or have been introduced to by others.  Noah Conn, is one such individual.

Noah recently celebrated his 6th birthday.  Instead of presents for himself, Noah requested items for the rescue organization, which brought his best friend, ‘Biscuit’, into his life.

I am inspired by this young boy’s selfless act.  It gives me hope.

Thank you Noah.

Noah and Biscuit

Noah and Biscuit

Most rescue organizations have a ‘wish list’.  If, like me, you were inspired by this story, please consider making a donation, to your local shelter; either online, or in person.  Happy birthday Noah!

it’s the lil’ things

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My Favorite Things – Rodgers & Hammerstein, RCA Records 1965

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens,
bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens,
brown paper packages tied up with strings,
these are a few of my favorite things.

Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudels,
door bells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles.
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings;
these are a few of my favorite things.

Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes,
snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes,
silver white winters that melt into springs,
these are a few of my favorite things.

When the dog bites, when the bee stings,
when I’m feeling sad,
I simply remember my favorite things,
and then I don’t feel so bad.

This was one of my favourite songs, from one of my favourite movies, when I was growing up.  I admit, I still set the PVR (Tivo) to ‘record’, if I see The Sound of Music, scheduled for broadcast.  I doubt there is anyone reading this, that does not recognize the lyrics from ‘The Sound of Music.’  Most of you are reading along to the tune, playing in your mind.

Have you ever made a list of your favourite things, do you take stock of the little things in life, that make you happy?  If not, take a few moments and jot them down somewhere.  Now, imagine this list, transformed into a work of art.

Provincetown 2013 087

This summer, I attended the Purple Turtle Art Festival; an amazing display of original paintings, photographs, jewelry, sculptures, pottery, woodcraft, native art, and more.

Set in a lush meadow, and catered by chefs from The Briars – Ontario Destination Resort, Spa and Conference Centre; The festival, includes works by more than 30 artisans from Toronto to Tory Hill, Ontario, as well as local artists.  This, is where I first learned of Nadya.

It was a very hot and humid Ontario day, as we entered the festival.  My husband was growing impatient, at being dragged from one booth, to the next.  Eventually, I made my way, to the far corner of the exhibition, from which, the colours from Nadya’s display beckoned me to visit.  The use of vibrant colours, still managed to evoke calm.  The serene imagery, and philosophical quotes were thought-provoking; each piece, an affirming meditation on canvas.

Nadya had stepped away from her booth during the time I perused her work.  Helping myself to one of her business cards, I knew I would be contacting her very soon;  I wanted one of her creations, displayed in my home, so that each time I walked past it, I would be reminded of the lil’ things.  Reminded, that it’s important to take time to appreciate these things.

Describing herself as a girl from the North Country, Nadya says; “I live in the forest with my very tolerant family and a plethora of animals. Mr. CFO is my husband of eons, my children Miss Know-It-All (self-proclaimed) and my son ‘The Juicer’, are ever-present to guide me through this wild, strange thing we call life. I am a person who could easily withstand being under house arrest, I love to be in my home studio creating. I find beauty in my everyday life and transform what inspires me into jewellery & art. I love taking pictures, loud music, red wine and cute babies. I enjoy hats and wear many of them. I am a work in-progress and passionate about what I like & love. I enjoy letting my freak flag fly and observing how true honesty makes people uncomfortable. I try to be fearless.”

Nadya collage_2

I corresponded with Nadya, initially via email. I described myself as an advocate for animals, and mom to pups Henry, and Reese.  I wondered if she would do a piece, reflective of this, and was invited to visit Nadya at her home. When I arrived, it was like visiting an old friend; we visited for ages.  I met Nadyas family, their protector, Lacey the cat, and hens; Thelma and Louise.  My husband accompanied me on today’s visit.  We toured ‘the farm’, met additional hens, quails, and new arrival, Sofie – the baby hedgehog.  On this day, I was also very excited, to collect my charming, whimsical, ‘li’l things by Nadya’ artwork. 

I am very pleased to introduce you to Nadya; a wonderful person, a lover of animals, with a positive outlook on life; this, I believe, is translated through her beautiful works of art.

http://www.purpleturtlearts.ca/

http://www.briars.ca/

http://lilthingsbynadya.com/

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