What does the Spring season mean to you? Spring has been a time for me of watching the crocuses and tulips lift their sleepy heads out of the ground to say hello to the world. They herald in a time of warmer weather and longer sunshiny days, of walks with the dogs that don't require big puffy coats, knitted hats and scarves. Days that seem to never end. Now, don't get me wrong, I do enjoy to watch the snow come down on a winters day. But, Ahh, the spring time beats even that for me. Does hearing the word Spring put a "spring" in your step? (No pun intended-Hee Hee) After the winter we've had here in New York, it certainly does put a spring in my step, for sure! Since I was a young child, I've always looked forward to the spring time. The spring time for me meant that the warmer weather was just around the corner, there was more sunshine, longer days, blossoming leaves, more playing with my friends and siblings outdoors and on and on! It also meant that the Easter Bunny was going to visit our house and leave us baskets filled with candy. I loved the chocolate coved marshmallow eggs and chocolate bunnies the most! For Easter every year my grand mother who was a milliner would create the most beautiful Easter bonnets for us while my mom, a dress maker and designer, would make us gorgeous custom coats and dresses to go with the hats. We would travel from our home on Utopia Blvd. in Flushing, Queens to the Bloomingdales to get our black patent leather Mary Jane shoes, socks, pocket books and gloves. These would be saved in our bedroom closet until Easter Sunday. Every once in a while I would sneak a peak in the box that they were housed in and smell the new scent of the black patent leather and dream of how special I would feel all dressed up. As I grew and had my own children, I never forgot how excited I always felt this time of the year. However, Easter took on a whole other meaning for me. I'm not down playing the wonderful and exciting anticipation of the Easter Bunny coming and those chocolate covered marshmallow eggs that tasted like heaven. On the contrary, as an adult, it now meant a new life left dormant during the winter months. I guess you could call it an awakening of sorts. I became more interested in my faith and what that meant to me. I truly believe that my kids were the inspiration for this awakening. As they went to their religious education classes, I learned along with them. I realized that I didn't grasp any knowledge of my religious education when I was growing up. Oh, I thought I knew everything, but when I was learning along with my own kids, I found out that I was far from knowing anything at all. This was a real eyeopener for me. I realized right then and there that I had a great deal to learn and that everyday we learn something new no matter how old we get. What about you? What does the Spring or any change of the seasons mean to you? Do you have a favorite season? Please share you thoughts with me in the comments below. In closing, I would have to say that whether you live in the
Northeastern part of the United States like we do or else where in the world, take a little time to smell the flowers and do something nice for yourself. Happy tales to you, xoxo Yvonne
0 Comments
Randon Acts of Kindness Did you ever have a day that nothing seems to be going your way? Then out of the blue, someone does some small random act of kindness for you. What a nice scenario that is. But, do we really recognize this kind gesture? Speaking for myself, I'm guilty of being so engrossed in my challenges during the day that I don't even see that someone is being kind to me. This, I can assure you, doesn't happen often. But, when it does, I reflect on how I can try to recognize these random acts of kindness in the future. Sometimes it's not that easy to condition oneself to be open to the kindness of others. After all, we're all so busy doing so many things. Personally, I feel that I'm busier than I've ever been. So, sometimes, during those times that I'm rushing around, I'm unable to see or feel the kindness of others. In retrospect, maybe if I just slow down a bit I just might be able to see and hear that someone is being kind to me. I think that recognizing the kindness begins by slowing down. Then there are the times when we share a random act of kindness with someone only to be ignored completely. That infuriates me. For instance, last week while grocery shopping I was trying to navigate through a very congested isle. I saw a lady coming almost head on with my cart. I pulled my cart off to the side and waited for her to pass me. As she passed she didn't look at me, didn't say "thanks," didn't even acknowledge my kind gesture. She just passed and went on her way. My first reaction was that she was rude. However, after some thought, I assumed that maybe she had many things on her mind, maybe she was in a rush, maybe, maybe, maybe. Excuses for someone's rude behavior is how I justified my giving her a pass. However, the other part of me wonders how we've become so used to this type of behavior that it's becoming the norm. Instances such as the one I've described above makes me even more tuned into becoming more kind. When someone holds the door open for me, I make sure I say a quick thank you. When someone lets me into a traffic lane on the highway, I wave so that the driver behind me can see that I appreciate the gesture. To me, all of these little things, albeit small, add up and make us better people. I'm not saying that I'm perfect in any way shape or form. But, all I'm saying is that I'm trying. Kindness is free of charge. It doesn't cost a penny, yet it's as precious as gold! When we receive or give acts of kindness both parties benefit in so many positive ways. Being mindful of the many ways we can share our kindness with others helps with stress and our well-being. It improves our mental health and creates a sense of accomplishment and success. So, this month, I'm challenging myself to see if I can give acts of kindness everyday. At the end of each day, I'm going to review any acts of kindness I've given or received and thus count them as blessings! How about you? Are you going to try to be kind this month too? Happy Tales to you!
xoxo Yvonne What is Art to me? ART: 1. the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. 2. the various branches of creative activity, such as painting, music, literature, and dance. "the visual arts" ~The Oxford Dictionary Definition I grew up in a home where the arts were encouraged. I was always in a school choir. In fact, one year we went on to be the state champions. From singing, playing instruments to the visual arts, we joyfully thought that this was the norm. My grandfather played the mandolin, guitar and violin. I have wonderful memories singing as my Aunt Marie played the piano while we sang along to the "Teddy Bears Picnic." I've since learned that this song was written by an American Playwright John W. Bratton in 1907. The lyrics were added by Irish Songwriter, Jimmy Kennedy. According to The Word Mystery Channel, "Teddy Bears Picnic" symbolizes the innocence of childhood, the joy of simple pleasures, and the power of imagination. (1) I don't think that my aunt realized that the song she was playing on the piano while we sang along side was that deep! Personally, I think she was just delighted to have her six and seven year old nieces singing along. Plus, she kept us busy while my mom got some chores done!! We just thought that it was fun. I often thought about those Teddy Bears and what fun it must have been to be enjoying food, fun, and freedom in the forest. The candy, cakes, cookies, and treats sounded so good to me. Then at age eleven I discovered a new passion. Drawing and painting. I loved it!! I recall looking up at the clouds and seeing things forming and then just floating away. It was great fun picking out objects in the clouds. Sort of like Dagger and Picasso's abstract paintings. You can see all sorts of representational objects in them. I had a great High School Art teacher, Miss Kubiak. She took me under her wing and introduced me to many types of art genre. She became a dear friend and mentor even after I was married and had my own children. I just loved her for her expertise and knowledge in the arts. In High School I became the President of the Art Club and was given cart blanche as to what the group of us did. It was such fun!! I remember Miss Kubiak telling me that I would make a great teacher some day! That meant the world to me. As a young mom, I continued to draw and paint in my spare time. I often created cards for birthdays and holidays and flyers for my kids school. But, it was when I left my families business that I saw the opportunity to continue my education at Hofstra University. It was there that my REAL passion for the arts flourished. I knew my passion was always there, but as many of you can "atest to", as a mom, I had family obligations that came first. That was always the way. Now that my kids were grown, I felt that this was my turn to expand my horizons. And I did! I had my first solo art show at Hofstra U and won the Art of the Northeast Prudential Wheeler Award in my first year. I was given the highest academic honor for my community service and academic excellence~The Golden Key Award. Over the years I've had the get fortune to receive many honors and accolades. As I reflect on my growth as a Fine Artist, I've come to realize that the challenges and sadness I faced when I left my families business had to happen in order for me to find my real passion in life. In retrospect, I'm happy I took the leap to find that my world was bigger than what I was leaving. Sometimes it takes a little bit of bravery to admit we need to move on. I'm happy I did...I found out that ART was a big part of my world, So what is ART to me? I guess it's everything!! I love when people talk about what they're creating. They inspire me to learn and create more. Whatever tool you use, keep creating, learning and inspiring.  Happy Valentine's Day to everyone! Enjoy by doing something creative! If you have time check out our Valentine's Day Card craft with your pet! It's Howling Fun! Log on to www.HowlingTalent.com for the details Happy tales to you!
xoxo Yvonne New Beginnings Have you ever wanted to get rid of something old and welcome something new into your life? Something like: A new hair style. Or A new fashion style. Or New decor for your home. Or even... A new home in a new state, town or city... Change can be exciting. It may even be something to look forward to. But, It can also be scary and fearful. Often times changes in our lives are made for us. Like things we have no control over. Such as, the loss of someone or something we love. Those changes can be stressful and life altering. Then there are those little changes that happen often in our lives. Recently, my Facebook page Dagger II aka DogVinci was abruptly removed by Meta without explanation or reason. We've had the page since 2016. I tried to no avail to see what the problem was only to become even more frustrated. I felt dismissed and violated by Meta. There was not a "real" person to speak with about this issue. So, as time ticked away and people started asking me about Dagger's page, I resorted to create a new page. As I stated before, change can be sad and burdensome at times. Even the little changes like the loss of a Facebook page. LOL! It does take a certain amount of courage to start something from the ground up. But, on the other hand, new beginnings can be a time of exploring a whole new world for us. Creating our new Facebook page then became something exciting for me. What will we call our new page? Of course, Facebook also has rules as to what the name can be...After trying many names, I came up with "Dagger Picasso Barney" as the new name of our Facebook page. Creating new things especially in the New Year can make us feel like we are starting over with new beginnings. We can blame the ancient Babylonians for being the first to celebrate the New year and making New Year's resolutions. They would make resolutions to their gods. As time marched on, resolutions stuck and we now see them as identifying personal goals for the upcoming year, usually focusing on self-improvement, and setting specific, achievable plans to reach them; this often includes defining clear objectives, breaking down large goals into smaller tasks, and creating a strategy to maintain consistency throughout the year. To me that's a lot to attain! But, we must and should consider all of these things seriously. Setting our goals too high and unattainable can lead us to failure. Even making changes that we are unaccountable for can lead to failure. According to U.S. News and World Report it's an estimated 80% of New Year's Resolutions that end up as failures mainly because people loose the motivation to stick to their resolve. So, just weeks after we make our resolutions we quit. Sometimes we never even know that we've quit because there's no accountability for the resolutions from the onset. Now, don't get me wrong. I'm a true believer in setting goals for oneself for health and well-being. However, when we set unrealistic and surmountable goals for ourselves, I feel that we're just setting ourselves up for failure. I believe in baby steps and things in moderation. Rome wasn't built in a day and our resolutions and life changes should be gradual and realistic. Each of us must consider our lives and what works for us. We're all uniquely different and our needs are too. Therefore, rather than run out of steam in a month, I feel that we should try to set small attainable goals for ourselves. When I was teaching Picasso how to paint, I asked Alex, his Professional Trainer, to help me teach him. The one very important aspect of her teaching was to always start small and increase over time. She told me that when we start small we are not setting the dog up for failure. Even tiny little steps should be rewarded. And when we fail, if we should fail, we always start over again with tiny little steps. That's what helps to create success. Most importantly, we must never, ever give up!!! Yes, we may want a new "Look" for 2025. That's a good thing! Take it slow and steady. Always remember to be good to yourself and recognize all of your accomplishments. Then set some new attainable goals for yourself. Happy, Healthy New Year! Happy tales to you, xoxo Yvonne  Stay tuned: |
 |  |
When people see me with Picasso they'll ask me if he's a "Puppy in Training" or How long will I have him? What I try to explain to them is that I adopted him and trained him to be a (CC~COC) Canine Companion Therapy Dog. I know it's extremely confusing for people to see me with him and wonder about him. However, it's been happening quite regularly. So, I thought I'd set the record straight as to how he became my dog and how, as his handler, we are now a Therapy Dog Team. I am a Certified Therapy Dog Handler for Canine Companions. Therapy Dogs are not Service Dogs.
I feel that it's important for everyone to know the difference between a Therapy Dog and a Service Dog. Picasso is a Therapy Dog not a Service Dog. There are very big differences between the two. Service dogs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) giving them public access rights. A therapy dog is trained to provide affection and comfort to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster area and the like. The etiquette is quite different for both as well. The proper way to approach a Service Dog Team is to ask if you may pet or say hello to the dog. On the contrary with a Therapy Dog, though, anyone can approach a Therapy Dog Team. They are both working dogs, however their jobs are drastically different. The Canine Companion Service dog is helping their client with certain tasks, while a Canine Companion Therapy dog's presence is to bring joy and comfort to everyone he or she meets.
Picasso is a Canine Companions Certified Therapy dog and I'm his handler. We are Team Picasso. We take our role as a Therapy Dog Team very seriously. Canine Companions has a strict protocol as to who and where we visit. If you'd like us to come to your facility you're welcome to visit Canine Companions (Therapy Dog Program Setting Interest and Approval Form Survey) to apply for a visit.We absolutely love our visits.
Canine Companions uses only their release dogs in their Therapy Dog Program. Most know over 30 commands and are either Labrador retrievers, Golden retrievers or a cross between the two. Picasso is a cross. He was on track to be a Service Dog for them. He was named Picasso at birth on April 4, 2022, He traveled from Santa Rosa, California to the Northeast Region of Canine Companions at eight weeks old to be Puppy Raised. He was raised by a college student who did an excellent job!! For 18 months she provided a loving environment, veterinarian care, a wonderful diet, taught him basic commands, and socialized him. In the summer of 2023 he matriculated into their Professional Training Program. Unfortunately, while being professionally trained, Picasso began to exhibit some fear issues. I was told that he is super sensitive. To graduate and become a Service Dog with Canine Companions, a dog needs to be perfect in every way. Therefore, a dog with some fear issues and being sensitive would not make a great service dog. When they're released from program, the Puppy Raiser is offered the opportunity to adopt the dog. In Picasso's case. the Puppy Raiser was unable to adopt him. So, his professional trainer and the Program Manager decided that he would make a wonderful therapy dog for them. Now they needed to find a Canine Companions Handler to team up with him. I just happen to be a Canine Companions Therapy Dog Handler. The day they reached out to me was incredible and serendipitous...to say the least..
You see...A few months earlier I had lost my beloved Dagger DogVinci. After losing Dagger I felt my purpose was lost. So, I decided to apply to be a handler for Canine Companions' Therapy Dog Program. After a lengthy interview and testing program, I was accepted. I was thrilled to have been accepted into their program. But, I knew that it would take time to be matched with one of their release dogs. That is, until I received an email from their Therapy dog Program stating that "Picasso was being Released." The first thing I thought was, "this has to be a joke!" A dog named Picasso!? When I reached out to the Program Manager she said that he was already beginning to learn how to paint! She asked me if we wanted to adopt him and told me that he would make a wonderful Therapy dog.
Of course, my husband and I high-tailed it right out to the Northeast Regional Headquarters (which is right here on Long Island in Medford) and adopted Picasso on the spot! Canine Companions requires a handler to bond for six months before they are tested to be accepted as a team into their Therapy Dog program. After two weeks with Picasso, I felt I had already bonded with him. But, we had to wait. And I must agree with their rules, a team really needs that time to train and test. It's all extremely important for the Team's success.
Six months later, we were certified as a Canine Companions Therapy Dog Team.
I'm happy to report that Picasso has visited many schools and facilities since we've been certified. It is one of the most rewarding things I've done.
I certainly hope that you understand the journey of how a Canine Companions Therapy Dog becomes a therapy dog for them and the difference between a CC Service Dog and a CC~COC Therapy Dog.
Yes...Picasso is my dog. He lives with me and he's part of our family forever and ever. We are proud that he's a Therapy Dog for Canine Companions and he's Barney's best pal🐾🐾❤️❤️
Yes...Picasso is my dog. He lives with me and he's part of our family forever and ever. We are proud that he's a Therapy Dog for Canine Companions and he's Barney's best pal🐾🐾❤️❤️
May you all have a
Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving
🍁
Enjoy every minute with your family and friends!
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving
🍁
Enjoy every minute with your family and friends!
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
An Art Show,
Howling Talent Animal Day,
and
Best of Long Island
It's been one year since the launch of our Howling Talent Website, Art Exhibit, and Podcast. We launched it on Dagger's Birthday October 6th last year with a "Howling Talent Animal Day" as a kick-off. Since its launch, we've exhibited a group of very talented animals and released 23 episodes of our Howling Talent Podcast. We have so many exciting things planned for the coming year. The first is an Art Exhibit of some pretty remarkable animal artists that have never been seen before on our website (www.HowlingTalent.com). And Guess What? One of these talented animals is my new little artist, Picasso. When I think about what we've achieved in Dagger's continued legacy it brings tears to my eyes and a song in my heart all at the same time. It's a paradox of sorts...It's sad that Dagger is no longer with me, that brings tears to my eyes. But joyful that all of this has happened in our lives since...thanks to him. In addition, I couldn't have done any of this without Anna Roy's expertise. Anna is my co-host, creator of the website, and the producer of the show and podcast. Anna lives in Cyprus and we've become fast close friends...even though we live a world apart.
Dagger's spirit and presence in my life has helped bring me to where I am today. Which heralds another milestone in my life...A competition for the Best of Long Island.
Year after year Dagger "DogVinci" won The Best of Long Island (BOLI) in the Best Artist/Painter Category. The amazing thing was that he won over human artists. In fact, as an artist myself, I was always nominated, but never won. When the BOLI folks decided too move him to the Most Talented Pet Category...He won that too!!
Thanks to all of Dagger’s fans and followers Dagger won 5 awards over the years!! We learned of Dagger’s last win the week he passed in 2023. It was a very wonderful gift, one of many treasured gifts that Dagger left with us.
This year I received an email from the folks at The Best of L.I. They wanted to know if I wanted to nominate Picasso and Barney in the Pet Category’s Talented Pet area. We applied and recently learned that our nomination was accepted. On October 1st the voting begins. Once again, I ask you to please vote everyday until December 15th. We are super excited about this nomination. This year is quite different though. There are two pets being voted on now, Picasso and Barney. They’re nomination is in the same Pets category under the Talented Pet subcategory as Dagger. However, this entire process is rather bittersweet to me. I know that Dagger had a great deal to do with blessing us with Barney and Picasso and I’m so grateful for that. I feel Dagger's spirit with me every day. I am confident that he’s here with Picasso, Barney, and me as we continue to work as a creative team. Picasso and Barney deserve this nomination. With Picasso painting and Barney as his muse, they make a wonderful team. Picasso is doing splendidly with his painting and Barney is a great little muse. Me? Well, I'm just the instrument used to make all of this happen. Picasso and Barney are the stars!!
Therefore, I ask you all to vote for them each and every day until December 15th 2024. Click HERE to VOTE once a day from October 1st until December 15th.
Thanks to all of Dagger’s fans and followers Dagger won 5 awards over the years!! We learned of Dagger’s last win the week he passed in 2023. It was a very wonderful gift, one of many treasured gifts that Dagger left with us.
This year I received an email from the folks at The Best of L.I. They wanted to know if I wanted to nominate Picasso and Barney in the Pet Category’s Talented Pet area. We applied and recently learned that our nomination was accepted. On October 1st the voting begins. Once again, I ask you to please vote everyday until December 15th. We are super excited about this nomination. This year is quite different though. There are two pets being voted on now, Picasso and Barney. They’re nomination is in the same Pets category under the Talented Pet subcategory as Dagger. However, this entire process is rather bittersweet to me. I know that Dagger had a great deal to do with blessing us with Barney and Picasso and I’m so grateful for that. I feel Dagger's spirit with me every day. I am confident that he’s here with Picasso, Barney, and me as we continue to work as a creative team. Picasso and Barney deserve this nomination. With Picasso painting and Barney as his muse, they make a wonderful team. Picasso is doing splendidly with his painting and Barney is a great little muse. Me? Well, I'm just the instrument used to make all of this happen. Picasso and Barney are the stars!!
Therefore, I ask you all to vote for them each and every day until December 15th 2024. Click HERE to VOTE once a day from October 1st until December 15th.
So, you see, there's tons going on this month.
Picasso and Barney are doing a great job being great!!
Please take a moment everyday to vote for them for the BOLI,
enjoy the Art Exhibition and our Podcasts on the Howling Talent website!
Thanks so much!!
Happy Halloween!
🎃
Be Safe!!
Happy Tales to you!
xoxo
Yvonne
Picasso and Barney are doing a great job being great!!
Please take a moment everyday to vote for them for the BOLI,
enjoy the Art Exhibition and our Podcasts on the Howling Talent website!
Thanks so much!!
Happy Halloween!
🎃
Be Safe!!
Happy Tales to you!
xoxo
Yvonne
If someone asked you to describe yourself in one word,
what type of word would you choose?
what type of word would you choose?
Would it be a word that describes your character,
your occupation, what is vital in your life,
or
maybe something that is essential
to your meaning and existence?
your occupation, what is vital in your life,
or
maybe something that is essential
to your meaning and existence?
For me, I feel, that in order to describe myself,
I would essentially have to look inward
to my true self and identity.
WOW!
That's not an easy task.
Especially when I'm portraying myself in one word.
For me, I find that it's extremely difficult to describe myself.
However, to describe other people
and animals in one word is fairly easy for me to do..
For instance, if I had to describe Barney and Picasso in one word,
that word would most definitely be...LOVE.
Me?
I'm not quite sure what the one word would be.
I would essentially have to look inward
to my true self and identity.
WOW!
That's not an easy task.
Especially when I'm portraying myself in one word.
For me, I find that it's extremely difficult to describe myself.
However, to describe other people
and animals in one word is fairly easy for me to do..
For instance, if I had to describe Barney and Picasso in one word,
that word would most definitely be...LOVE.
Me?
I'm not quite sure what the one word would be.
But why??
As I write this blog,
I've been researching the "Why's and Why Not's" some of us find it so hard to describe ourselves in any way, let alone, one word! What I've learned from my research is that one of the main reasons people, like me, find it so hard is that we're constantly thinking about what others think of us. We're afraid that if we act real, we can be judged by the people around us. I would venture to say that to have a self-identity based on what other people's perspectives are of us is basically not really looking at oneself, but running away from our true selves.
Will people find out that sometimes I get angry and sometimes cry over things that I've created? So what?
We're human, after all.
I remember an instance many years ago in my life when I always said "Hello" to a co-worker of mine. Everyday, I said "Hello" to her and everyday she ignored me. I was upset about this until one day when I told a very wise man about how upsetting this was to me. He told me that I can only try my best. He said don't stop being who you are...if she doesn't say "Hello" back, that's her problem! I immediately saw things in a different light.
I thought I had done something wrong to her...
I was blaming myself for a problem that she may have had.
Secondly, there's the part of me that feels that if I express my attributes in any way, I'm bragging.
From an very early age,
I thought that bragging about oneself was wrong.
Well, not anymore.
When I see my grandchildren and ask them to tell me about what they've done lately...
they always tell me about their accomplishments.
It's refreshing to hear how confident
and secure they are in their skins.
I admire that!
I've come to realize that other people's perspectives of me are just their perspectives...not mine.
So, my advise to you and me too, is...🥰
We should be proud of who we are
and ALL of our accomplishments.
I've been researching the "Why's and Why Not's" some of us find it so hard to describe ourselves in any way, let alone, one word! What I've learned from my research is that one of the main reasons people, like me, find it so hard is that we're constantly thinking about what others think of us. We're afraid that if we act real, we can be judged by the people around us. I would venture to say that to have a self-identity based on what other people's perspectives are of us is basically not really looking at oneself, but running away from our true selves.
Will people find out that sometimes I get angry and sometimes cry over things that I've created? So what?
We're human, after all.
I remember an instance many years ago in my life when I always said "Hello" to a co-worker of mine. Everyday, I said "Hello" to her and everyday she ignored me. I was upset about this until one day when I told a very wise man about how upsetting this was to me. He told me that I can only try my best. He said don't stop being who you are...if she doesn't say "Hello" back, that's her problem! I immediately saw things in a different light.
I thought I had done something wrong to her...
I was blaming myself for a problem that she may have had.
Secondly, there's the part of me that feels that if I express my attributes in any way, I'm bragging.
From an very early age,
I thought that bragging about oneself was wrong.
Well, not anymore.
When I see my grandchildren and ask them to tell me about what they've done lately...
they always tell me about their accomplishments.
It's refreshing to hear how confident
and secure they are in their skins.
I admire that!
I've come to realize that other people's perspectives of me are just their perspectives...not mine.
So, my advise to you and me too, is...🥰
We should be proud of who we are
and ALL of our accomplishments.
So, brag! Brag away!!
As I struggle with this question,
I can't help but reflect on what I've done
and who I am as a person..
I can't help but reflect on what I've done
and who I am as a person..
Sure, I'm a wife, mom, grandma, artist, author,
"Howling Talent" Podcast Host, Blogger,
Therapy Dog Handler, volunteer, etc.
That's what I do.
But, who do I say I am in one word?
"Howling Talent" Podcast Host, Blogger,
Therapy Dog Handler, volunteer, etc.
That's what I do.
But, who do I say I am in one word?
Childlike
I encourage you to do this exercise yourself.
Your one word must be positive and optimistic.
You'll be surprised to learn how remarkable
and PAWsome you are!!
Your one word must be positive and optimistic.
You'll be surprised to learn how remarkable
and PAWsome you are!!
As the school year begins for some, be safe and learn well!
Remember to keep creating, keep learning
and keep inspiring others to do the same!
Happy Fall!!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
Remember to keep creating, keep learning
and keep inspiring others to do the same!
Happy Fall!!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
HOPE
“Hope” is the thing with feathers
BY Emily Dickinson
BY Emily Dickinson
"Birds" Original Oil Painting by Yvonne Dagger “Hope” is the thing with feathers -
That perches in the soul -
And sings the tune without the words -
And never stops - at all -
And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard -and sore must be the storm -
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm -
I’ve heard it in the chillest land -
And on the strangest Sea -
Yet - never - in Extremity,
It asked a crumb - of me.
That perches in the soul -
And sings the tune without the words -
And never stops - at all -
And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard -and sore must be the storm -
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm -
I’ve heard it in the chillest land -
And on the strangest Sea -
Yet - never - in Extremity,
It asked a crumb - of me.
I've never placed much hope in the word "Hope." I always felt that whenever I hoped for something, it never ever happened in the way I had hoped it would be. Therefore, when I heard this poem called “Hope” is the thing with feathers" written by Emily Dickinson, I began to see a different side of hope. When I researched the meaning of this beautiful poem, I learned that the hope Emily Dickinson refers to is a "reminder that hope is something that lives inside us all. We're never alone in times of tribulation as hope is there singing the voice of encouragement."
"Hope" is metaphorically transformed into a strong-willed bird that lives within the human soul—and sings its song no matter what. Essentially, the poem seeks to remind readers of the power of hope and how little it requires of people."
I don't know about you, but I needed to hear the words in Emily Dickinson's poem today! Each of us needs to be reassured of the hope that lives within our souls.
Sometimes we don't realize just how strong and brave we really are. Until we are reminded that deep within ourselves is a strength and courage that's uplifting and full of encouragement. It's a peaceful and tranquil little bird with a mighty strength. The bird sings within the soul and is always there. That's where hope is. Hope resides in the heart and is often used for good.
"Hope" is the thing with feathers is one of the best-known of Emily Dickinson's poems. As an extended metaphor, it likens the concept of hope to a feathered bird that is permanently perched in the soul of every human. There it sings, never stopping in its quest to inspire."
Emily Dickinson's poem has made me rethink the word "Hope." I see it in a completely different way now. Now it's a word that I can "go to" and use all of the time with inspiration and peace. According to Emily Dickinson, Hope lives inside of our hearts like a bird with feathers singing inspiration, encouragement and strength.
I learned that Emily used the birds as a symbol of hope because "Birds sing and fly, they perch, nest, and move constantly. By comparing hope to a bird, Dickinson is showing how fleeting hope can be. Sometimes we can hear hope like we hear a bird, but not see it. Sometimes hope, like the bird, is sitting silently in front of us."
How comforting those words are to me.
I "HOPE" they're as comforting to you too!
I "HOPE" they're as comforting to you too!
Have a happy August, everyone!!
Happy tales to you all!
xoxo Yvonne
Happy tales to you all!
xoxo Yvonne
What the World Needs now is...
Love, Sweet Love!
"What the World Needs Now Is Love" is a 1965 popular song recorded by Jackie DeShannon
with lyrics by Hal David and music composed by Burt Bacharach.[1]
with lyrics by Hal David and music composed by Burt Bacharach.[1]
This song is as much a message today as it was some 59 years ago.
The word "love" has been used over the years to mean so many things.
Love comes in many shapes and forms.
The word "love" has been used over the years to mean so many things.
Love comes in many shapes and forms.
Romantic love is one form of love
and is often spoken about more often than any other form of love.
Fortunately, for us humans there are many other forms of love.
There's parental love, family love ,
friendship love, pet love, and love of thyself.
All of these forms of love are important in their own right.
But, there is one form of love that I will be writing about in this Blog...
Unconditional Love
and is often spoken about more often than any other form of love.
Fortunately, for us humans there are many other forms of love.
There's parental love, family love ,
friendship love, pet love, and love of thyself.
All of these forms of love are important in their own right.
But, there is one form of love that I will be writing about in this Blog...
Unconditional Love
We've often equated Unconditional Love with the love we receive from our dogs. I know that from my own experience of owning many dogs throughout my life that no matter what happens every dog will show this unconditional love. A love that has no limits. That's the gift our dogs give to us. They welcome us back when we've been away from them for even a minute. I've often heard people say that, "I'll just bring the garbage out and when I walk back into the house I'm welcomed eagerly with open paws of love."
Truth be told, this occurrence has happened to me numerous times.
Truth be told, this occurrence has happened to me numerous times.
Why are these furry creatures so lovable?
According to CompanyofAnimals.com, "The primary reason that dogs are able to give so much love is because, they, like humans, have the ability to release oxytocin when they interact with someone or something that they like. Oxytocin, also known as the 'love hormone' is a chemical that releases in response to activation of sensory nerves."
"Scientists have found that, just like oxytocin, dogs have higher levels of serotonin compared to wolves. This kind of happiness has to do with their relationship to humans—as dogs were domesticated, the human–dog bond became stronger, bringing both parties more happiness.
Dogs give us so much."[2]
Dogs give us so much."[2]
When I watch Picasso working, I witness how people's faces light up as they see him. It's in their smile that I know his message of love is well received.
When we adopted Picasso, I was told that he would make a wonderful therapy dog. However, as his handler, I needed six months to bond with him. After that period of time we would be ready to be tested as a team.
After a week of him living with us, I thought, my goodness, I feel bonded with him already! Then as time went on, I understood how important it was to really bond with your therapy dog partner. These things take time and Canine Companions Therapy Dog program managers know that very well. As excited as I was to get going with our work as a team,
I also knew that I was responsible for Picasso's success as a Therapy Dog.
After a week of him living with us, I thought, my goodness, I feel bonded with him already! Then as time went on, I understood how important it was to really bond with your therapy dog partner. These things take time and Canine Companions Therapy Dog program managers know that very well. As excited as I was to get going with our work as a team,
I also knew that I was responsible for Picasso's success as a Therapy Dog.
It's been four months since Picasso and I were certified as a therapy dog team for Canine Companions. I can say with complete confidence that he LOVES his work. As do I. He's a natural at his new career. He has this sixth sense of knowing when someone really needs love, joy and comfort. Many times over the past four months I've witnessed him gravitating over to a person who I had no idea needed comfort. For no reason whatsoever he would walk over to him or her...just because he felt that that individual needed his help at that very moment. When this happened initially, my instinct was to pull him away and give him a correction. After all, I was his handler. Right? Wrong! I learned since that he has a way of sensing people's needs. This has happened so many times. Ultimately, the person will say something to him like, "You really don't realize how I needed your comfort today." or "I just lost my dad and you're helping me deal with my grief." I know then that what we are doing as a team is very important.
And that as a team I have to let him discern who we need to bring comfort to. He's such a pro at it!
And that as a team I have to let him discern who we need to bring comfort to. He's such a pro at it!
Yes, dogs come into our lives and the love they bring is unconditional. They don't ask questions, they just do what is natural to them. They share a selfless love. They're steadfast loyalty goes above and beyond any human can even imagine. Their unwavering devotion and emotional connections with humans make them inherently close to us.
I like that closeness. I like having Picasso as my team mate.
Love comes in many forms.
Each is important, but one is perfect.
Dogs unconditional love for us is as close to perfect
as we're ever going to get!
It's what the world needs now...Love Sweet Love!
Each is important, but one is perfect.
Dogs unconditional love for us is as close to perfect
as we're ever going to get!
It's what the world needs now...Love Sweet Love!
Happy Tales to you!
xoxo
Yvonne
xoxo
Yvonne
|
A Place where I can Bark, Blog and Woof a Little
written by Yvonne Dagger
Archives
April 2025
March 2025
February 2025
January 2025
December 2024
November 2024
October 2024
September 2024
August 2024
July 2024
June 2024
May 2024
April 2024
March 2024
February 2024
January 2024
December 2023
November 2023
October 2023
September 2023
August 2023
July 2023
June 2023
May 2023
April 2023
March 2023
February 2023
January 2023
December 2022
November 2022
October 2022
September 2022
August 2022
July 2022
June 2022
May 2022
April 2022
March 2022
February 2022
January 2022
December 2021
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
February 2021
January 2021
December 2020
November 2020
October 2020
September 2020
August 2020
July 2020
June 2020
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
September 2019
August 2019
July 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
December 2018
November 2018
October 2018
August 2018
July 2018
RSS Feed