<![CDATA[DAGGER DOGVINCI "THE DO GOOD DOG"

<![CDATA[DAGGER DOGVINCI "THE DO GOOD DOG" - Yvonne\'s Blog]]>Sun, 12 Apr 2026 15:23:59 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[April 2026]]>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/march-30th-2026Happy Birthday time

April is a very special month in our household.
We celebrate four "Dagger" Family Birthdays.

On April 4th, Picasso turns 4 years old! It's been almost two years since we adopted him to be ours. My granddaughter, Madeline turns 22 this April 8th and on April 15th we celebrate Barney's "Gotcha" Date. Finally, on April 19th, my grandson, William will be turning 12 years old.

What a month!! A lot to celebrate; a lot to be grateful for.

Since Barney's 'Gotcha' anniversary is April 15th, this makes him a tax-day baby! While I hate the thought of doing taxes, I’m thrilled to spend the day celebrating both Picasso and him. It's a much better way to spend Tax Day 2025 than doing, well... taxes. 🐶🎉

A "Barkday PAWty" isn't complete without party hats, special treats, and a trip to the park! I'm planning to treat them to plenty of steamed broccoli and Brussels sprouts—a nutritious favorite they absolutely love. To make it a perfect celebration, we'll follow that up with running (if I can even run!), playing, and sniffing the trees and fresh spring crocuses at the park.

For my grandchildren I’m planning a special treat—their favorite cake followed by an ice cream sundae! They adore ice cream, and I have to admit, I do too!

I hope you'll be celebrating some special events this month as well. Whatever you do, please remember to be kind to yourself and others. It's really the only way to be!!

Be well and stay safe!
Happy tales to you!
xoxo Yvonne

]]><![CDATA[march 2026]]>Sun, 01 Mar 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/march-2026Punch the monkey

As many of you know by now, Panchi-kun (in English "Punch") the baby Japanese macaque living in the Ichikawa City Zoo has made a big name for himself. Abandoned by his mother shortly after birth on July 26, 2025 and not accepted by his troop, Punch found it hard to socialize with the troop.

Zoo Keepers for Punch Photo Taken from Instagram feed

When I found posts of this little primate on Instagram, I found myself captivated by his story and the images/videos the zoo keepers were posting. The stories melted my heart to see the little guy alone and abandoned. From what I've learned, Punch's mother was sick when she gave birth to Punch. She was unable to nurse him. So, a 24 year old zoo keeper named Kosuke Shikano worked alongside him during those crucial first months of his life. A senior zoo keeper, Shumpei Miyakoshi, supported Punch's early development and helped ease his transition into social life at the zoo. They realized that Punch needed something to hold and cuddle with which is a normal nurturing occurrence for baby macaques. Shikano said in an interview that they tried everything from rolled towels for him to grasp and other plushy stuffed toys, but nothing helped. He goes on to explain that this part of the baby monkey's growth of holding on to something is important for them to gain "muscle strength" and "for security." That's when they decided to purchase a plush orangutan from Ikea because the stuffed toy "had many places to hold and had long fur," Shikano said. Plus, he added, it "looks like a monkey." They thought that "if it looked like a monkey, it "might help Punch integrate back into the troop later on. That's why they chose it." Their decision to give him a plush orangutan to take the place of a mother's warm, loving, soft hug was brilliant. Over time, this stuffed toy became Punch's surrogate mother. Carrying and dragging his substitute security momma around as he sleeps on it, kisses it and hides behind it when he is frightened. To see him with his plush toy dragging it and sleeping on it is cuteness overload!!

I was so touched by the story that I wanted to rescue and adopt the little macaque. But, I've learned a great deal about these Japanese macaques and Punch by doing some research on my own. First of all, Punch has become so popular that there's even a Wikipedia Page about him! Secondly, I've found out that macaques do not make good pets "because they are wild animals with complex needs that cannot be met in a home, leading to severe welfare issues, potential danger to humans (due to aggression and diseases like B-virus), and legal restrictions, with most experts and organizations advising against keeping primates as pets due to their inability to thrive outside their natural social and environmental settings. Macaques are highly intelligent, social, and need extensive space, specific diets, and constant mental stimulation that a typical home cannot provide." They're very affectionate as I've witnessed by watching the numerous social media posts about him.

Therefore, even though I would want to save the little guy by adopting him for my own, I think he's better suited for an environment with other macaques for socialization and growth. "Crested Black Macaque's are the most affectionate monkeys in the world, due to living in a forest full of food where they all want for nothing. They love to hug, blow kisses, share, and make friends." Current posts and reports are now saying that Punch is beginning to assimilate with the troop members at the Ichikawa City Zoo and has an older macaque watching over him, grooming him and hugging him when he needs protection and love. I was so relieved to see this reported because I was worried about his welfare and survival. From one of the videos I watched I saw Punch hugging and kissing another monkey. It was touching and heartwarming to witness this. It has also been reported that Punch's mother is doing well and is among the other macaques at the zoo. Sadly, she has not interacted with Punch. But, not to worry, Punch has gained the love and affection of the other macaques. It's going to take time for Punch to feel fully assimilated with the troop members. When we have memories of being hurt and abandoned, gaining the trust of others takes time. I think the zoo keepers will do everything in their power to make Punch secure and assimilated with the troop. They're the experts and so far they've done a excellent job in caring for and loving Punch.

So...

Why has this little baby monkey captivated me
and so many people world wide?

Is it because we've all experienced being lonely
and perhaps bullied in our lives?
Or is it the feeling of empathy that the world needs now so desperately?
I think it's both.

"Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings, perspectives, and experiences of another person, acting as an "emotional bridge" that enhances relationships, communication, and social connection. Five examples of empathy include actively listening to understand someone's feelings, validating their emotions with phrases like "That sounds incredibly tough," offering support by saying "I'm here for you," taking their perspective ("I can see why you'd feel that way"), and sharing in their joy or sorrow, showing you feel with them, not just for them."

Whatever it is, Punch has truly made his mark in the world.
Through his birth and life I think the world has become smaller and kinder. More understanding for the need of others.

I've learned many lessons personally from Punch.

We all need to be cared for and loved to survive.
Perseverance and resilience makes us stronger.
We're braver than we think we are.
Being lonely and feeling abandoned happens to all of us sometimes. . But, knowing that you're never truly alone is critical to our growth.
Being part of a community is vital to feeling loved and supported.

Watching Punch's journey with his troop fills me with gratitude and hope.
He has shown me that despite the sadness in the world,
there is still incredible kindness and loving connections.
His story proves that compassion and hope are very much alive.

I think that's why his story has captivated me so!
I do hope that the Ichikawa City Zoo keeps us informed
with Punch's growth and progress.
I'll keep looking for the posts everyday about
Punch from my little corner of the world.!
It's uplifting and inspiring.
I trust that the zoo keepers are aware of Punch's needs
and I'm hopeful that they'll do what's best for him.
Have a great month!
Happy Tales to you
xoxo Yvonne

I painted the work of art below of the Bonobo Great Apes
after I wrote a book about them in the early 2000's
It was a labor of love! I've always had a love of monkeys.
Did you know that the Bonobo Great Ape has 98% of our human DNA?
Bonobo's are peaceful matriarchal apes living in the Congo. When they see the people that they know coming down the river, they come down from their tree umbrella homes and greet them with a hug!!

Bonobo Great Apes Original oil Painting by Yvonne Dagger

Bibliography:
1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punch_(monkey)#:~:text=Punch%2Dkun%20(Japanese%3A%20%E3%83%91%E3%83%B3%E3%83%81%E3%81%8F%E3%82%93%2C%20Hepburn%3A%20Panchi%2Dkun%3B&text=or%20simply%20Punch%2C%20is%20a,a%20large%20orangutan%20stuffed%20toy.
2.
empathy
3.
Photos from Various Instagram Posts
4.
macaques monkey
5.
Instagram: travel_with_basil

]]><![CDATA[February 2026]]>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/february-2026Thank You for your Votes!!

Whew! I can't believe it's February already!
January flew by!

So much has happened since ringing in the New Year.
We learned recently that Picasso and Barney won The Best of Long Island Most Talented Pets. We are so grateful to everyone who voted once a day for close to two months for them!!
That's wonderful 🥰

Our "Kindness of Animals" Program is well underway. This program is really neat. It's all about spreading love one card at a time. If you would like to participate simply have your pet create a Valentine's Day card and then give it or send it to someone who is deserving of receiving a little love. Your pet doesn't have to be a talented canine artist to be creative. You can have some fun and use the "Lick Painting" Method. This is such an easy way to get your pet to create a card. Simply apply dollops of paint on a piece of blank card stock or heavy paper and cover the surface of the paper with plastic wrap. Once the surface is covered securely with the plastic wrap, smear the surface of the plastic wrap with peanut butter. Then have your pet lick the peanut butter off the plastic wrap. Amazingly, you will see the paint create an abstract painting. It's really cool! You may have another way to get your pet to create a Valentine's Day Card. Whatever way you choose it's a very good thing to do for your community and pet. Valentine's Day is such a great holiday to bring love to someone who needs a little TLC. For directions click the 'Kindness of Animals" image above. If you participate, make sure you send photos of your pet painting the card as well as the person that receives your pets card. Let's make this Valentine's Day extra special by sending some love from your pet(s)!

As we begin this month of February we are welcomed on February 2nd by Ground Hog Day. I "googled-Up" the meaning of the Ground Hog tradition. I found this explanation:
"Groundhog Day, held annually on February 2nd, is a North American tradition where the rodent Punxsutawney Phil emerges from hibernation to "predict" the weather; seeing his shadow means six more weeks of winter, while no shadow predicts an early spring. Rooted in European Candlemas traditions brought by German settlers, the 1887-originated event takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania."
I'm ALL for Punxsutawney Phil🦫 Every year I wait to see whether Phil sees or doesn't see his shadow. However, in my heart of hearts, I don't want him to see his shadow. With no disrespect to anyone who loves winter, I'm not a fan of the winter months. I love the warm weather. I always look forward to seeing the crocuses peaking their little heads out of the ground when spring arrives. What's your prediction?? More Winter or early Spring?? Let me know!

Thank you again for your votes for Picasso and Barney!
🩷
Wherever you live in this world...
whether it's cold or hot...
Be Safe and Be Well
Happy Valentine's Day
💕💞💕
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne

]]><![CDATA[January 2026]]>Thu, 01 Jan 2026 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/january-2026Happy new year!!

written by Yvonne Dagger

Happy New year from Barney & Picasso 2025

As I look back on 2025, I'm both happy and sad.

I'm happy and thrilled with many things that have happened in my life in 2025. I'm happy that Picasso was named Dan's Best Artist for 2025. I'm grateful to all who voted for him...your votes certainly counted! He won! Yippee!! Picasso is continuing to keep Dagger DogVinci's Legacy alive as he paints gorgeous works of art. To add to Picasso's success, he painted at Canine Companion's 50th Anniversary Gala event in June with Brittany Bell and Heather O'Rourke from Eyewitness News 7 as Co-Master's of Ceremony's. What a great event that was!! Brittany and Heather were PAWsome!! In addition, Picasso's success carried on in 2025 as he painted at several other wonderful events too numerous to mention here. I'm so proud of this little guy!! Barney continues to be a loving, caring companion. He's been a supportive muse to Picasso as they enjoy working together in our home studio. They're inseparable. Watching them makes me very happy!

I'm also happy because I was able to write my third book. It's about welcoming Picasso and Barney into my life while letting Dagger go...to Heaven. It's a book about grief and dealing with the loss of a beloved pet. I think it's my best book yet! It was important for me to continue writing from real life with a little fun fiction added. Dagger will still be a part of the series. However, in a different way now...working from Heaven. My editor, Jaye Medalia and my illustrator, Penny Weber, are diligently working on my manuscript right now. I'm hopeful that by the summer of 2026 it will be released.

Happiness continued in November as we were able to listen to Tommy Sullivan sing at Canine Companion's Veterans Day Salute Independence event. What fun that was while honoring Veteran's from WWII to our current heroes! The funds raised are being used to provide Service dogs for wounded veterans. Now, how great is that!! Denis and I bided on a Beach Cruiser bike and won the bid. It's an aqua blue color bike with big wheels and a basket on the front handlebars. It's really cool!

There are so many other reasons that I'm happy about this year mostly because everyone in my family are physically well and feeling good. Being healthy and feeling well is paramount to me. It's something money can't buy.

Ok, so now why am I sad? You may ask...

I'm sad to witness our great nation struggling right now. I'm sad for the legal immigrants scared to go to work for fear of being rounded up, torn from their families and sent to a foreign country or concentration camp. Some of them only know America as their home. I'm also sad for the people who are being forced to close their businesses because of the steep tariffs imposed on their products. Many people are full of stress and anger. This, I believe, comes from the unknown and uncertainty in our lives and nation right now. So, what do I do about this? I pray a lot! Sometimes I have to take a break from tuning into the news and watch a happy movie. I also do "7 Little Words." (https://7littlewords.com/7lw) I love that. It takes my mind off off the things I can't control.

As you all know, our motto has always been to create, educate and inspire.
Inspiration comes from good people who try to make our world a better place to be. Mother Teresa once said that we can't do it all, but if we all do just one small thing with great kindness and love that will become enormous. "Mother Teresa's sayings emphasize love, service, small acts, and faith, highlighting that "It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving," "We cannot do great things. Only small things with great love," and "Peace begins with a smile".She taught that "Love begins by taking care of the closest ones—the ones at home"and that "The most terrible poverty is loneliness, and the feeling of being unloved," stressing kindness, faithfulness, and seeing (God) Christ in the suffering."(1) I truly believe that Mother Teresa was "right on" with her life's philosophy. Her lessons are still practiced throughout the world. Now, that's a really good thing!!

So, where do we go from here...as we start a New Year, Personally, I think that I would benefit from reflecting on the things that I've accomplished in my life. The GREAT things; the WONDERFUL things that have happened that make me who I am. I would then list them on a sheet of paper and reflect on each one. You'd be surprised to see that when we reflect and make a list (by either writing them down on a piece of paper or using your computer) of our accomplishments, how amazed we become at the things we've done over the year. Hey! You can even give yourself a pat on the back for being so PAWsome!!
Then, I suppose, after doing this positive and uplifting task, I would think about the things I'd like to change moving forward in 2026. I'm really not one for big New Year's resolutions. Many are lofty things that are basically unattainable. Now, don't get me wrong, setting goals is a really good thing to do. However, when we set our New Year Resolutions too high they often become failures leading us to give up. If we set small reasonable goals we are apt to build on these small things and before we know it we've attained more then what we set out for.

However you choose to start the New Year,
do it with a kind and loving heart.
Be good and gentle with yourself.
Remember to do your best and the best is yet to come!!
Happy New Year!!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne

Bibliography
(1) new year resolutions
https://www.google.com/search?client=safari&rls=en&q=new+year+resolutions&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8

]]><![CDATA[December 2025]]>Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/december-2025Baking for the Holidays

Do you bake cookies for the holidays?
I do...well sort of...I'm not the best baker, but I try!
😀
I have my favorite list of cookies that I bake during the holiday season almost every year. Each cookie has a story attached to it.

🍪
They're:

Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies (I've modified this recipe over the years with my own version)

Spritz Butter Cookies (This was the only cookie my mom baked during the holidays when I was growing up.)
Gingerbread Cookies (These cookies are from when my daughter was a Junior Apprentice at Old Bethpage Village Restoration.During her five-day summer program, she had the opportunity to dress in 19th-century clothing, participate in trades and crafts of the time period, and experience what it was like to be a child hundreds of years ago. They baked these cookies in their Bee Hive Ovens.).
Raspberry Thumb print Cookies (This recipe was developed by a friend of mine and her mom about 20 years ago!)

(I've included the recipes for each at the end of this blog)

In addition to the cookies above and their history, for the past two years I've had a cookie baking and decorating party with my kids and grandkids. It was so much fun! I actually prepared the cookie dough ahead of time and rolled the dough out between parchment paper. I refrigerated the dough sheets until the kids were ready to use the cookie cutters of their choice for their cookies. Each of my kids and grand kids got a sheet of dough and had fun cutting out their own cookies. I made sure that the decorating icing was ready along with all of the sprinkles and anything edible to decorate I could find at the craft store! Of course, you can find kits with cookies already baked. The kits usually have royal icing bags and sprinkles included. I just like the aroma of freshly baked sugar cookies permeating throughout the house during the holidays. I also like the kids to have fun...there are a lot of laughs and chuckles as they decorate their cookies.

I like to begin my baking a few days before I'll be serving my cookies or giving them out as gifts. I know a lot of people that start baking their holiday cookies weeks ahead of time. I like them to be the freshest they can be! It's probably the only thing I wait to do the last minute in my life. Hee! Hee!

If you happen to have at favorite tried and true cookie recipe you'd like to share with me please email your recipe to me at:
ypdagger@aol.com
or
Click the "Contact~ bark Up Our Tree" tab and leave me a message😊

I wish everyone a happy, joy-filled, and peaceful holiday season
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne

RECIPES BELOW
🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪
Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
(My modified version of the original)
Ingredients:
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. salt
1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
2 tsp. vanilla extract
2 eggs
2 cups Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 375 degrees (I have a convection oven so I lower the temp to 350degrees)
Combine flour,, baking soda, and salt in a small bowl, Set aside. Beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl nd mix well until creamy. (I mix this by hand) Add eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition. Add the flour mixture and mix well. Stir in the chocolate chips. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls on uncreased cookie sheets lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 8-9 minutes (They sort of look light brown on the edges and light tan on the overall cookie. The look like their undercooked but they not)
Cool on cookie sheet for 2 minutes and then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

🍪

Spritz Cookies
(My Mom's Butter Cookie Recipe)
Ingredients:
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1/2 salt
2 tsp. vanilla
2 1/4 cups all- purpose flour
Heat oven to 400 degrees ( I use my convection oven for baking and cooking...if you do use you convection oven decrease the temp to 375 degrees
Mix butter, sugar, egg, salt and vanilla thoroughly. Sift flour into the wet ingredients. Using 1/4 dough at a time, force dough through a cooky press on ungreased baking sheets in desired shapes. Bake 6 to 9 minutes, or until set but not brown.
Makes about 5 dozen cookies.

Gingerbread Cookies
(From Old Bethpage Restoration Village photo: circa 1986)
Ingredients:
2 sticks butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup molasses
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. ginger
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add egg and molasses. Set aside.
In a smaller bowl, sift dry ingredients together and add to the butter/egg mixture.
Mix the whole together. Roll into balls; put them on iron sheets. (I put them on cookie sheets lined with parchment)
Bake them in a moderate oven (350 degrees) for 10-12 minutes.

Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
(Marie & her mom's Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies)
Ingredients:
2 sticks butter, softened
1/2 cup sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
Seedless Raspberry Preserves
Preheat oven to 375 degrees (350 degrees for a convection oven)
Cream butter with sugar until fluffy. Add flour to butter mixture until thoroughly combined. Shape into jumbo olive size balls, place on a parchment lined cookie sheet. Press with thumb in center of the ball to create a "thumbprint" ** (I press my thumb in each ball as I create the balls...or else I've found that the dough will dry and crack if you wait until you've filled the cookie sheet with the balls.)
Gently fill the "thumbprint" with the seedless raspberry preserves.
Bake for 13-15 minutes or until light brown on edges and set.
Remove from cookie sheets to wire rack to cool.

This photo was taken last year during our Christmas Celebration

]]><![CDATA[november 2025]]>Sat, 01 Nov 2025 16:09:01 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/nopvember-2025

Whatever i do...

There are days that are more challenging than others.
Then there are months that are a test of resilience.
October was one of those months for me.
Don't get me wrong, nothing tragic happened.
It just didn't go the way I had planned.

It all began when I got an upper respiratory infection the first week in October. It was one of those yucky germs that keep you in bed throughout. But, something other than the infection was happening to me. I started to feel pain in my shoulders and neck. The pain kept getting worse where I was forced to cancel all of Picasso's therapy visits and his workshop at the Massapequa Library. It was sad for me to have to do this. While the upper respiratory infection was slowly getting better, the pain in my shoulders and neck was not.

After going to my GP and Rheumatologist, I learned that I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR). I'm now being treated for both. I'm grateful to the medical staff and doctors for all of their help in diagnosing this for me and helping me feel better.

I am also grateful for all of the prayers, well wishes, cards, goodies, and even a full bag of delicious groceries. I will be forever grateful to everyone for keeping me in your mindful thoughts.

I'm now taking it easy. If any one knows me well is not an easy task for me.
I guess it's a lesson of patience with myself. I also learned that I'm a horrible patient...just ask my husband and kids. There were times (and they don't know this) that I did see them roll their eyes at one another as if to say, "just take the water with the pill now and don't ask us if we've washed our hands before!" Care-taking is tough for me. I love being a caregiver, but being on the other side of the world is challenging for me. Huh! Another lesson in the book of life!!

I promise you all that I will be back...better than ever! As soon as I am able, I will start our therapy visits again and maybe even have workshops again! Currently, I'm writing my third book. It's a bit different than my other two books. In between writing, I'll be venturing into our studio to paint with Picasso and maybe even dabble in the paint scene myself.

Whatever I do...
it will be with creativity, education, and community service in mind.
Please continue to keep me in your thoughts
and prayers as I will do the same for all of you!
Have a very happy and thankful Thanksgiving
Happy Tales to you!
xoxo Yvonne

]]><![CDATA[October 2025]]>Wed, 01 Oct 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/october-2025Hey, That's my seat!

Did you ever notice that when you go somewhere often you gravitate to the same seat you were in the last time you were there?
Or
that when you're at an event people place their coats or pocket books
at a specific seat as a marker?

Even at a family dinner and gathering there are seats given to people at the "head" of the table that are usually for the host or honored guest. While growing up at a rectangular table, my father sat at one end and my grandfather was at the other end of the table. We just always knew that they had those seats. The rest of us took the remaining seats. But, we usually all had the same seats at every meal.

Where I sit in church with Picasso and my husband, Denis, is where we sit every Sunday at mass. When we arrive to our "normal" seats and see someone else sitting there...I think to myself, "Hey, that's my seat!! The nerve, doesn't he/she know that I sit there?" But, in reality, I don't own that pew! Anyone can sit there.

I was talking to my brother-in-law about this after mass one Sunday. He was upset that someone was sitting in "his seat." I chuckled because I wondered how many people feel that same way that we do. Why do we always take the same seats every week??

Is it because we are creatures of habit or just feel more comfortable sitting in the same seats week after week? For my husband and I, it's because we have Picasso and we need the xtra space with him. But, I have to admit that when I see someone else in "my" seat I get a little upset. Believe it or not, I know of people who think that they own the pew and NO ONE is allowed to sit in their seat. They will actually not talk to you if you take their seat! It's comical! But can be a real problem.

After researching this subject, I found that "people sit in the same seats at church primarily out of habit and comfort, as routines become ingrained and specific spots offer desirable views, sound quality, or easy access. Other reasons include: practical concerns like proximity to an exit or hearing aids; social connection with friends and family in a familiar spot; and a desire for a sense of spiritual connection or consistency, especially for those who have lost a loved one, as the seat can be a source of comfort.

At other events "the act of claiming a space, even temporarily, is a common form of "territoriality," a psychological mechanism used to create a sense of control over one's environment." Have you ever witnessed someone arriving at an event and immediately place their coat/pocketbook at a seat? I see this at weddings and gatherings. These people seem to know the rules really well!! They want to get the "best" seat in the house. I've been at weddings where my husband and I are assigned to a particular table and by the time we get there we see pocketbooks at every seat. So, we take what's left. I guess I talk too much to the guests on my arrival that we kind of loose out...but, it really doesn't matter to us to high-tail over to the table to get a seat.

But, in all fairness to the people who do rush over to get a seat, there could be other reasons for their haste. Placing a marker at a table can actually reduce the anxiety of finding a spot after the hall gets crowed thus allowing the attendee to feel more relaxed and have a good time.

I just find all of this sociologically interesting. We as humans do things that are traditional such as the seat at the head of the dining table or habitual and comforting by taking the same exact seat at a place of worship according to our situations when it comes to finding our seat in the world. Are we creatures of habit or just controlling our territory? As for me, I think I'm a little of both. I like to sit in the same seat week after week at church and maybe it is kind of territorial too! I think I'll move around a little to see and get to know others at a different vantage point. I'll have to get up the nerve to do just that!!

So, when you're at church or at an event, you may want to take notice of where you and others take your seats. Look around, take notice of how many people travel over to the same seat every week. It's very interesting!

Happy Fall!
Happy tales to you!
xoxo Yvonne

]]><![CDATA[September 2025]]>Mon, 01 Sep 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/september-2025Labor Day

Many years ago, my husband's cousin, Brian Cullen, said something very profound. He said, "It doesn't matter what you do for a living as long as you're passionate about it and do it to the best of your ability." He went on to explain that being a school bus driver is as important as a rocket scientist. That made me chuckle a little because, you see, Brian was a rocket scientist. He was a pioneer of laser radar systems and a leader in the aerospace industry. But, why did he say this I wondered. At the time he was writing a book about evolution by design and mathematics. Brian's brilliance in his field has made him appreciate all work in every field. Everyone's work and job is important to him no matter what that job is.

Writing this blog made me think about what Brian said back then which prompted me to give him a call...it was a wonderful call. He will be celebrating his 85th Birthday this Thanksgiving. I reminisced with him about what he said to my husband, Denis, years before. He added, "just look at the way the Japanese do their handicraft work. The wood polishers are so important." Brian's words exemplified his statement that every part of a finished product is important. He went on to say that the demise of a rocket going to the moon may just be a tile that fell off or a ring that malfunctioned.

The conversation I had with Brian made me reflect on all the jobs I've had over the years that I felt were menial. Often, they were jobs with low pay and were very boring and tedious. But after remembering and speaking with Brian about his conversation with my husband I have a new and greater gratitude for the true meaning of being passionate about the fruits of our labor and what they contribute to our well-being and life and the life of others. Therefore, through Brian's words I've come to relize that every job I've had whether I felt it was menial or not contributed to the person I am today.

So, as we commemorate Labor Day today,
celebrate all the jobs you've had because each job contributed to the finished product and made you who you are today too!!
Celebrate YOU today!

Happy Labor Day!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne

]]><![CDATA[August 2025]]>Fri, 01 Aug 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/august-2025

Do you truly believe in yourself?
I struggle with believing in myself.
People often say...
"Just have courage and believe in yourself"
The words sound like it's so easy to do. Doesn't it?
But, how do we do it and what do we have to do to really truly believe in oneself. I really wanted to know.
So, as many of you know me already, when something intrigues me,
I do my research...normally that means doing a Google research. lol...
This is what I found...

"Believing in yourself, or self-belief, means having confidence in your own abilities, potential, and judgment. It's about trusting that you can learn, grow, and adapt to challenges, even when faced with setbacks. It's not about being perfect or better than others, but rather having a realistic understanding of your strengths and weaknesses.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Key Components of Believing in Yourself:

Self-Worth: Recognizing your inherent value as a person, regardless of your accomplishments.
Self-Confidence: Having a positive attitude about your abilities, qualities, and judgment.
Self-Trust: Having confidence in your ability to make good decisions and follow through on your commitments.
Autonomy: Feeling in control of your own life and choices.
Environmental Mastery: Believing you can effectively manage your environment and overcome challenges.

How to Build Self-Belief:

Recognize your strengths: Identify what you're good at and use these strengths to your advantage.
Acknowledge your weaknesses: Don't let your weaknesses define you. See them as areas for growth and development.
Reframe failures: View setbacks as learning opportunities rather than reasons to doubt yourself.
Set achievable goals: Start with small, manageable goals and build up your confidence as you achieve them.
Celebrate your successes: Acknowledge and appreciate your accomplishments, no matter how small.
Practice positive self-talk: Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive affirmations.
Seek support: Surround yourself with positive and encouraging people.
Take action: When you take steps towards your goals, your self-belief will naturally increase.

Why is Self-Belief Important?

Confidence:
.Self-belief is the foundation of confidence, allowing you to approach challenges with greater assurance.
Motivation:
.When you believe in yourself, you're more likely to pursue your goals and persevere through obstacles.
Resilience:
.Self-belief helps you bounce back from setbacks and learn from your mistakes.
Personal Growth:
.Self-belief is crucial for personal growth and achieving your full potential. "

"Believing in yourself doesn't mean that you have unrealistic expectations." It takes courage to believe in yourself. It's not about boasting neither. I used to think that if I truly believed in myself and I boasted about it that I was showing off. According to the experts, this is far from the truth. Believing in yourself is really about a "can do" attitude. An attitude that even if I don't succeed, I've at least tried to the best of my ability. It's about being proud of your accomplishments as big or small as they may be. It's about keeping going no matter what obstacles are in your way. Because when you believe in yourself the difficulties will come and go and the successes remain with you.

Simply Put, Hang in There!
AND
Believe in Yourself!!
I'm going to try...Will you?
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne

Bibliography
Google AI
explaining believeing in yourself

]]><![CDATA[July 2025]]>Tue, 01 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMThttps://www.dogvinci.com/yvonnes-blog/july-2025🇺🇸 happy July 4th!!! 🇺🇸

July 4th, also known as Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. This day signifies the formal declaration of the 13 American colonies' separation from British rule, marking the birth of the United States as an independent nation. Celebrations typically include fireworks, parades, picnics, and other festivities. (1)

I love a birthday celebration! I love cake and cookies and I adore celebrating anything! Looks like here in New York the weather will be fantastic! That's wonderful news for people who are planning outdoor parties, barbecues, picnics and the like to celebrate the holiday. While all of the celebrations are fun and it's so good to celebrate our county's birth, it's also a holiday where there are the most runaway pets. Shelters on July 5th are filled to capacity with pets who have gotten spooked from the fireworks and run away, gotten lost, and ended up on the streets wandering around scared and alone. For many families this holiday can be very challenging especially if you have a pet that's sensitive to the sound of fireworks. Many people, like myself, have had family pets that become frightened and run or shake out of control. It's important to know how to keep your pets safe at home during the holiday.

Here are some tips I've used over the years to ensure the safety of my pets:

I set up a quiet, cozy space indoors where they can feel safe and secure. If it's hot outside, I usually keep my pets in the air-conditioning. If I want to exercise my pets and take them for a walk, we usually take them early in the morning when its' cooler and there's no firework booms.
I skip the table scraps and keep trash cans closed to avoid upset stomachs or an emergency vet visit. If you're having a party, instruct your guests not to give any food and alcohol to your pet(s). Remember you're their advocate...they rely on you to make these decisions for them.
I keep ALL gates, doors and windows closed to prevent my pets from slipping out during a party or running away at the sound of the booms.
I use calming music, white noise or anxiety vests to help my pets cope with the noise. I remember my little Beloved Maggie Mae was so scared that even the white noise didn't help. She trembled and ran helter skelter all over the place. Nothing seemed to help. Then I got her a Thundershirt. That helped a lot. If you don't have a Thundershirt or calming vest, a towel wrapped around the pet while holding the pet sometimes does the trick.
Make sure that your pet(s) are up-to-date with their ID Tags and are microchipped. This will increase the chance of a safe return if they do get lost.
AND If (God forbid) your pet does get lost...get the word out immediately on social media.

I hope these tips help you with planning a 4th of July that safe and WOOfderful for both you and your pet(s)! While we all want to have a safe and pleasurable holiday, things do happen that are out of our control. However, if you take these tips seriously your holiday will be happy and celebratory!

🇺🇸 Happy July 4th🇺🇸
Enjoy every minute and be safe!!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne

Bibliography:
(1) Joly 4th search

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