DAGGER DOGVINCI "THE DO GOOD DOG"
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Happy january 2023

1/1/2023

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our Words Count


"There's an old joke that says,
​'It took me two years to learn how to talk
and the rest of my life learning when to shut up.' 
As funny as this little joke may be, it rang true to me. It made me question my own words at times. Am I being hurtful, abrupt, rude with the words I choose to say? Oh, boy, just thinking about it, there are times my words can be mean and hurtful. Especially to the people who are closest to me. As the New Year of 2023 begins, I resolve to be more aware of the words I choose to say.
I began reading a book called The Four Agreements  
​written by Don Miguel Ruiz.
The Four Agreements are:
​
1. "Be Impeccable with Your Word"

2. "Don't Take Anything Personally"
3. "Don't Make Assumptions"
4. "Always Do Your Best"
In this blog I'm going to concentrate on the First Agreement~
"Be Impeccable With Your Word.". When Ruiz speaks of being "Impeccable With Your Word" he concentrates on what we say and how our words can impact the outcome of any situation. Ruiz says that "It sounds simple, but it is very, very powerful...Why your word? Your word is the power that you have to create."  He goes on to say that, "Your word is the gift that comes directly from God. The Gospel of John in the Bible, speaking of the creation of the universe, says, 'In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word is God." (25-26) When I read that I was curious to learn more
about how we can use our words in a way that helps rather than hinders.. 
I do know that even one word can change a life or destroy the lives of many people. There are hurts that occur in our lives that effect us for years after they happen. For instance, if a parent compares child # 1 to child # 2 and says that child #2 is smarter. Child #1 may think that they're stupid and consequently live a life of low self-esteem always thinking that they're stupid.  Words are so powerful that they can even change the way a person thinks. Let's say that child #1 meets a person who tells him or her in one word that they're not stupid. Child #1 may come to believe that what the person says may make him or her feel better about themselves. They then feel, "I guess I'm not stupid after all."  He or she can then form a new mindset. And "As a result, no longer feels or acts stupid."(30)  That one word has changed the way Child #1 feels and reacts about themselves because he or she has begun to love themselves. And in the future expresses this love to others.
The words we use must first start with how we see ourselves. If we talk to ourselves in a positive and loving way, we are half way there. Our words to others will then be expressed in a loving way as well. Therefore, the first step in being "Impeccable" with our word is to love ourselves. This step is extremely important in the way we talk to others. To change the way we see ourselves in a loving way by talking to ourselves helps us "deal with other people, especially those we love the most."(42)
Ruiz explains in The Four Agreements that he's simply "planting a seed in our mind. Whether or not the seed grows depends upon how fertile our mind is for the seeds of love. It is up to us to make this agreement with ourselves. Nurture this seed, and as it grows in our  mind, it will generate more seeds of love to replace the seeds of fear"..."When you are impeccable with your word, you feel good; you feel happy and at peace." (44)
Being Impeccable with our words can set us free and give us a new beginning with ourselves and others. As we welcome in a New Year, may we all try our best to use our words lovingly.
​It's not easy.  I know. But, it is possible,
I'm going to try.  
Are you?
May you all have a
Happy, Healthy, Blessed New Year!
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
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Bibliography:
​Excerpts taken from:
The Four Agreements
Written by:
Don Miguel Ruiz
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December 2022 Blog

12/1/2022

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 DogVinci 
"The Dog that paints from his heart"

(My First Children's Book)
Written ​by Yvonne Dagger
Illustrated by Olivia Menghini

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Dagger Illustration by Olivia Menghini 2022
My December 2022 Blog
Me? Write a book...Never!!​
​Umm...On second thought...maybe, just maybe I can.
I had never thought of writing a children's book. Until, of course, Dagger entered my life. Writing was not something that I felt I excelled in. Oh, sure, I wrote many papers in college and was even on a panel of writers in the Honors College. But, write a children's book? Nah. That was just so much of a reach for me. Until a four legged dog named Dagger entered my life. 
Dagger has given me the courage to do so many things. Things that I had once thought were out of my league to even try...like teaching him how to paint! Wow! That was an experience in itself!! Professionally, I'm a fine artist not a dog trainer. So, training Dagger was a completely new experience for me. I learned from Dagger's tutor that from the beginning of our instructions, she was actually tutoring me. I laughed when she told me that. She said that Dagger knew what he was doing...it was me that needed the training! I needed the confidence to show him that I was in charge. I was the alpha dog. As soon as I learned that he felt successful with me training him, I felt successful too. Dogs are very intuitive and know a lot more than we give them credit for. I learned that too!!
Dogs help us connect with others and even break barriers. I see this first hand as a volunteer Canine Companions NER Board Member. I've been a Board Member for Canine Companions for 11 years now. It's one of the most rewarding jobs I've ever had. I've witnessed children who never spoke a word before in their lives begin to speak when they are matched with a Skilled Companion Dog. Attending a graduation in person or virtually is heartwarming and gratifying to me. Canine Companions provides Service Dogs, Skilled Companions, Facility Dogs, Hearing Dogs and PTSD Dogs to children, adults and wounded veterans free of charge. Our recently added PTSD Program is a life saver for veterans. I could go on and on writing about this wonderful organization and the amazing dogs they provide. Dagger was born into the Canine Companions Family in Santa Rosa, California on October 6, 2012.  Even though Dagger was released from Canine Companions program due to fear issues, his exceptional nature has opened up a world of creativity, learning and community service. Through Dagger's excellence, I've been encouraged to do the things that I may have been apprehensive trying. Exploring new and unchartered territories while having a dog by your side can open up a whole new and exciting world. It has been quite a journey for me having Dagger by my side.  Dagger's the one who taught me that it's okay to make mistakes and have patience with myself.  He's just such a special dog. 
When Dagger does his painting demonstrations and workshops people witness his charisma. It makes my heart sing to see how he brings out the best in everyone he meets. I was always asked at our workshops, why I haven't written a children's book about Dagger yet. My response was always, "Me??? Oh, not me...That's for someone else to do." Then when the pandemic kept us all isolated, our DogVinci Workshops and in-person meetings came to a screeching halt.  Suddenly, I had the time to think about what all of these great people were prompting me to do while we were traveling from library to library and school to school sharing Dagger's talent. It was then that I began to think about the prospect of a children's book about Dagger.  Should I write a book? I'm not sure if I can, I thought. As time past, I began to feel the need more and more to write about my amazing dog.  I thought that it would also be a great legacy to leave for everyone. As my creative prowess emerged, my first thought was, "Wow, There's so much to say about Dagger's journey so far." I reached out to educators and family for their guidance. Coming up with a beginning, a middle, and an end was one of the hardest things for me to do. So, I've started writing about his life which is pretty interesting. I knew that illustrating was not my expertise, so I was fortunate to locate a wonderful illustrator for the book. For months now we've been working tirelessly on this creative endeavor. I'm still in the writing stage.
Before I decide on my finished book, I've been investigating the publishing stage. I reached out to my friends on Facebook and voila...they came through...as they always do! I'm hopeful that soon everyone will get a chance to read the first book about Dagger. 
I'm full of confidence that this is the opportunity I needed to share Dagger's story through a book...maybe even a series of books.  After all, Dagger lets his  light shine for everyone to see as he lives his life in a real world as a canine artist. Why not continue to let his light shine through a book...literally!!
Remember inside of all of us is a light
that needs to shine for all to see.
Let your light shine! 
Your light will then encourage someone else's light to shine,  

​Have a Happy and Blessed Holiday Season!!
Be well and stay safe!
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
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November 2022 Blog

11/1/2022

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Blessings
Gathering
 Food


Many years ago, a dear friend of mine and I were talking about holidays.
​I asked him what his favorite holiday was.
He said, "Without a doubt..."Thanksgiving!!"
​"Why?", I asked.
He said that to him Thanksgiving was always a day when we're encouraged to be grateful for the blessings in our lives, gather with family and friends and eat delicious food! He added "it's a day of reflecting on how grateful we are for nature's bounty and the people and pets we are blessed to have in our lives." "Wow!," I thought. He had it all figured out! Although, I never considered Thanksgiving my favorite holiday. Easter is my favorite holiday. He made me think about the holiday and how important it really is by highlighting three things during our conversation...Blessings, Gathering, and Food...
Blessings ...
When we think about the many blessings we encounter on a daily basis
our hearts become open to a spirit of compassion and forgiving. 
It's  good to be mindful of them all...that tends to make us happy.
How can we do that??? This is what I came up with...
​I'm sure you have many of your own😊
  • Take a moment to stop and look around. I've found that if I stop and look around concentrating on the beauty of the flowers, clouds, blue sky, people, animals and especially Dagger I am keenly aware of the blessings that surround me everyday.
  • Reflect on the ways we are a blessing to others by being kind
​         and thoughtful even when we find it hard to. At times, I find this can be very challenging. However, trying is the key to success.
  •  Reach out to others with random acts of kindness. 
  • Think about your gifts and talents. Write them down and be proud of each and every one of them,  Even the small ones!
  • Remember you are Awesome!! Be extra thankful for the gift of YOU!
Gathering...
  • Whether we're gathering in person with family and/or friends
or with them through various platforms such as FaceTime and Zoom I've found that being connected together brings happiness to my life.
  • A quick phone call to a friend or family member miles away can make someone's Thanksgiving Day memorable. I know it does mine!!
  • Three little words, "Thinking of YOU," can mean the world to a person who is spending the holiday alone for Thanksgiving.
  • Even a joyful Text has always made my Thanksgiving day special.
Food... 
Sharing a meal with those that we love is the hallmark of the holiday. It's a wonderful way to share what's going on in our lives and even share the things we are grateful for. 
So many of us have a recipe or contribution we take to our
​Thanksgiving table.
​What's yours? Please share it with me in a post below...
This year I found a recipe that I've been modifying as my own.
​ It's my version of Pumpkin Bread... 
I've been testing it on many people. Everyone seems to like it. I'd like to share to with you.  Below is the recipe.
 
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Download Recipe
Moist Healthy Pumpkin Bread
 Cook Time: 35-45 minutes
 INGREDIENTS:
 2 Cups whole wheat white flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups pumpkin puree (NOT PUMPKIN PIE FILLING)
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 eggs beaten
Instructions

1. Grease two 2- 4"x8" loaf glass Pyrex pans with olive oil spray
​and line with parchment paper.
 2. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees or 325 degrees for convection oven.
 3. Whisk all dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, allspice, and salt) together in one bowl. Set aside.
 4. In a separate bowl whisk to combine the wet ingredients (Pumpkin puree, unsweetened applesauce, honey, melted butter, extra virgin olive, vanilla extract, and eggs). 
 5. Add the wet ingredients (pumpkin mixture) to the dry ingredients (flour mixture).  Mix just until combined.  DO NOT over mix!
 6. Pour batter equally into prepared pans.
 7. Bake for 35-40 minutes. After 35 minutes, check with toothpick (the toothpick should come out clean when inserted in center of loaf) …if toothpick does not come out clean put back in oven for another 5-10 minutes. This baking process depends on your oven. 
 8. Allow bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it from pans and transfer to a wire rack until completely cool. 
Enjoy!!
🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃
My friend taught me a lot the day we had the conversation about our favorite holiday.  Although, I still love celebrating Easter, I have to say that Thanksgiving has become one of my favorite holidays too. Many thanks to my dear wonderful friend for helping me see the greatness in the holiday.
I'd like to close my blog this month by wishing all of you a
​Happy, Healthy Thanksgiving from my family to yours.
May you feel blessed.
May you know that you are a blessing.
And
May you enjoy nature's bountiful blessings!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
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October 2022 Blog

10/1/2022

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🍁 Change 🍁


What is it about the word "change" that is so daunting?
To me, I think that the word change is similar to entering into unknown territory. With change we really don't know where life will take us next. There are the times when we will encounter small less intimidating changes and then there are the times when our lives seem to have been turned upside down with a sudden unexpected change.  
Never the less...They're all changes.

​I encountered the biggest change I had ever experienced in my life on October 20,2019. My identical twin sister, Yolande, passed away after a long brave battle with cancer. During my life as a twin, I remember people asking me what it felt like to be a twin. My answer was always, "I don't know any other way of describing my twin-ship.I've never not been a twin...." When people saw us together they could see identical features, mannerisms and voices. Yet, we were mirror twins which meant that we were in many ways very different. Yolande was more scientific and I'm more creative. Fast forward to now and I am very well aware of how it feels having been a twin and the feeling of not being a twin any longer...It's like losing a part of you. A part that was with me for 68 years...not to mention the time we spent together being created in our mom's womb. It hasn't been easy accepting this change in my life. There are times when I just want to pick up the phone and tell Yolande about some wonderful news about Dagger's life or just get in the "DogVinci" mobile and visit her with Dagger. Then I realize that she's not here any longer. Miraculously, many moments during these empty times, I feel her presence overwhelm me.  I  feel a sense of peace which enters my body.
I can picture her saying to me, "I'm okay...if you're okay💕" That's how we always coexisted. If one of us was stressed and hurting the other felt it. I think that's why I feel at peace with her "new life" in Heaven with the Lord.  I know that she's okay which makes me feel okay.
I've learned that the way we accept change in our lives is up us. We can become depressed and let the change take over our very existence. OR we can rise above these feelings of depression and exchange them with words and feelings of hope and good vibes. It also helps to know that change is a normal occurrence. We are constantly changing and growing. Change is normal. Whether it's losing someone we love or changing our style of clothing. Change is a part of life. How we cope with the small and large changes in our lives is paramount to our wellbeing. 
Whether we like it or not... Good or Bad...change is going to happen. Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom, wrote in her Blog that change can affect our wellbeing and stress level. She says that, "With nearly every kind of change, stress is part of the equation. Trouble is, when you’re stressed, the pillars of healthy living – eating well, exercise, sleep and social time – tend to fall off your priority list. A better approach is to navigate tumultuous times with these six tips.
"6 Strategies For Coping With Change
1. Plan ahead. If you know change is on the horizon, do some prep work...  
2. Reframe your thinking. Figure out what's going on in your mind when you're feeling sad and break negative patterns. ... 
3. Take time to reflect. ... 
​4. Strive to maintain some normalcy. ... 
5. Create some comfort. ... 
6. Count your blessings." (1)
"Fortunately, there are ways to adapt to change,
​and even to take advantage of it.
🍁
Find the humor in the situation. ... 
🍁Talk about problems more than feelings. ... 
🍁Don't stress out about stressing out. ... 
🍁Focus on your values instead of your fears. ... 
🍁Accept the past, but fight for the future. ... 
🍁Don't expect stability."(2)
I would add that change can help us see things in a different light. We learn and grow as change occurs. I know that, no matter what, change can make us stronger and braver. Everyone has his or her own way to cope with change. Please share with me your ways of coping with change in your life below.  
In the meantime, as our lives change and grow, may we always look for the positive in every change taking place and learn from the change that we experience.
Yes, change can be daunting and at times very scary. However, change can also be a wonderful thing when we open our minds and hearts to the opportunities that await as each change occurs..
May you welcome all of the changes that occur in your life
with an open mind and heart.
And may you grow and learn from each change.
Happy Tales to you,
​xoxo Yvonne
Bibliography
1. https://www.henryford.com/blog/2017/05/coping-with-change
​2. dealing with change
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Yolande and I Circa 1957
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Yolande and I with our pet rescue dog "Lady" circa 1957
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Yolande and I circa 2017
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September 2022 Blog

9/1/2022

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Self- IMPROVING


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​September is the month of
​Self-Improvement. 

 I wondered why.
​So, I "googled" it up on my computer...
Google explained that, it's "the official Self-Improvement Month because it marks the end of one era (summer) and the start of a new one (fall). Self-Improvement Month is a time to reflect on all you've accomplished this year before identifying which goals you still need to work toward."
I also wanted to know what they consider Self-Improvement..."​The definition of self-improvement is pretty self-explanatory: Self-improvement is the improvement of one's knowledge, status, or character by one's own efforts. It's the quest to make ourselves better in any and every facet of life."
Google also had eight great tips to help us get our lives on track:
  • Set goals for yourself. ... 
  • Surround yourself with people who want to see you do well. ... 
  • Evaluate what isn't working and eliminate those habits. ... 
  • Learn a new activity or skill. ... 
  • Eat healthily and hydrate daily. ... 
  • Have compassion for yourself and others. ... 
  • Clean your space regularly.*
After considering all of these self-improvement tips, I've come to realize that I have some work to do! But I'm confident that if I take one step at a time I think that I can achieve what I'm striving to improve upon.  
Hey, listen, we're all works in progress. I think that being gentle with oneself and knowing that we're not going to accomplish everything in a day is, in itself, a great step forward. After all, we're human and humans are going to make mistakes and "skin our knees"...the success lies in picking oneself up off the floor and starting over again. Mistakes are just ways to learn and grow.  I would venture to say that learning from our mistakes is a part of self-improvement as well.
When I was teaching Dagger how to paint, I realized after working with him for a while  that I had run into a proverbial stone wall. I was having trouble streamlining his technique. It was then that I reached out to Dagger's Professional Trainer, Lauren, and asked her to tutor Dagger. Little did I know that she was actually tutoring me! On her first visit she worked with Dagger for a few minutes and he "got it" immediately. She told me that Dagger knew what to do after a few tries with her. It was my apprehension and lack of confidence that Dagger felt when he worked with me. My question to Lauren was always, "What mistakes am I making?" Lauren told me that I wasn't making any mistakes at all, Dagger just didn't feel that I had the confidence to get the job done.  Therefore, the lack of confidence I felt then traveled from me right down his leash and into him. After close to two months of tutoring me, Lauren felt that I was able to give it a go on my own. I will never forget the feeling I had when we were newbies at this new adventure. In retrospect, I guess I needed Lauren to help me improve myself. And here I thought it was Dagger that needed the help. What a self-discovery that was for me and... might I add... a self-improvement to learn that "you can always teach an old dog new tricks"...AND that old dog was ME!! I'm glad I made the call to Lauren because she certainly taught me that sometimes we need the improvement more than we think. 
We all have our stories about how we've tried and failed. The key to trying and failing is to gently give ourselves a pass and begin to make those improvements needed to succeed again and again. It's a growing process. An everyday evolution of self-discovery and self-improvement.  
As I reflect on how far Dagger and I have come, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratification. I know that we have a ways to go, but our organic journey continues as we learn, create and inspire.
I will be taking this month of September to
explore all of the ways I can improve myself.
​Will you?
Happy Self-Improvement Month!
Be well and Stay safe!!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
* Google: self improvement month
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August 2022 Blog

8/1/2022

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If I can, so can you... 


Over the years I've learned that no matter what you create, it's yours. Good. Bad. Or indifferent...It's your creation.
"Mistake" is not a word I use in Dagger's workshops or even in our studio. Trying and persevering are words that are used. 
Positive reenforcement and having fun are paramount when we
​create, learn and inspire.


I've also learned that keeping dates on creations provides
two very important things:
1. It's a great way to document your creations.
​2. It's an even more important way to see just how you've
​grown in your craft.

​As an artist, I'm mindful of the way I've slowly improved in my drawings. I used to get all upset when I wasn't able to master "making the doggie look like the doggie"...so to speak. Now, I look at things in a different light. I give myself a break and let the creating prowess flow from me. What a relief it is to know that it's okay to have the courage to insert the initial line on a piece of paper and go with the flow!  Even my painting style has changed over the years. It's freer and looser.  Many of the great masters got more relaxed over time too.  Not that I would even try to compare myself with the likes of Michelangelo or Monet. But, I have noticed a big difference in my paintings over time. Perhaps, it's a sense of confidence or even experience. I'm not sure. It could be eyesight too. Ha! Ha!  All I know is that as I've studied my works over time, I can see differences in technique and style. I've also learned that Michelangelo's last sculpture's were more abstract and loose in style than his previous works. Claude Monet's large Impressionistic magnificent paintings of his Lilly pond were quite abstract as the viewer gets closer to the painting. If you look at Jackson Pollack's earlier works, they were very realistic compared to his Abstract Expressionistic "Drip Technique" later works.
Moreover, I'm convinced that Dagger has taught me a thing or two as well. Being a sort of "chill" kind of dog, Dagger has encouraged me in his own little four-legged way that painting from your heart is the way to create. When Dagger paints, his brush stroke lands where it lands as he moves his head in different directions. The outcome is always magnificent! As I gaze at his true pure abstract works, I can see so many things in his paintings such as, angels, frogs, birds, flowers and so many other representational things. Dagger has also taught me that anyone can create! I always say to the students that are in his workshops..."If Dagger can do it, so can you!"  I recall a workshop we had at an assisted living residence once. A 104 year old nun resisted participating in the workshop.  She kept saying, "I'm here to learn about Dagger and watch.  I don't want to paint."  I convinced her that there were no mistakes..."whatever you paint", I told her, "is your masterpiece. Your very own creation." She relented and ended up painting.  She had the time of her life. It took her 104 years to discover that she had beauty that needed to be expressed from her heart on canvas. She smiled from ear to ear. I will never forget the happiness we all felt as we watched her create. Sometimes all it just takes is a little positive coaxing and a first step.
Taking the first step is key to creating anything. I equate it to taking a plunge into a pool of water. It's cold. It's vulnerable. But once we take the plunge into the pool of creating it's a wonderful, magical, and educational experience. That initial jump is so paramount to the creating process. Sometimes it entails sitting for minutes. sometimes it will take longer. As for me, there are many times when I sit and think about what it is that I'd like to create on a two dimensional surface. This can take a few minutes to hours figuring out what I'd like to paint. Unless, of course, it's a commission.  Then most of my work is done already. Since I specialize in pet portraiture and work from photos, I pretty much have my subject matter right in front of me.  I've always been amazed at how immersed I become when I start a project. Most of the time I'll loose track of time.  Time means nothing when I create. Unless, of course,  I have an appointment later in the day.  Then and only then do I put a timer on to remind me to stop. As the timer goes off... I resist the urge to move away and clean up. Oh...I get so upset when I can't continue my work! I've heard that this is a common occurrence with many artists. I'm tickled when I see the students in Dagger's workshops working well past the time allotted. It brings me back to thinking of my days in the studio when I too got lost in my own work. What a great feeling!
So, take the plunge! 💦
CREATE!
Remember, whatever you create... it's yours. You created  it.
​Be proud of yourself for taking the first step to creating.
YES!
​If Dagger and I can do it...So can you!
​You jumped into the wonderful world of creating.
​Now, Date it. Sign it (if you wish). And cherish it!
Happy Creating!
​&
​Happy Tales to you,
xoxo
​Yvonne
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"Letting Go" 14"x11" Original Oil on Canvas by Yvonne Dagger
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July 2022 Blog

7/1/2022

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🎶 Will you be my neighbor?? 🎶


      When my kids were growing up, there was a show on PBS called "Mr Rogers Neighborhood."  According to Wikipedia.com, Fred Rogers was an "American television host, author, producer, and Presbyterian minister." He captivated his young audience and was a big hit in our house. His calm and inspirational demeanor as well as his way of making every child feel special was his Hallmark. I remember how happy I was when the show was on because for an hour I knew Mr. Rogers was "babysitting" for my little ones through the TV screen. To me he was giving them a great deal of positive and wonderful messages. He would say, "You're special just the way you are!" and "In times of stress, the best thing we can do for each other is to listen with our ears and our hearts and to be assured that our questions are just as important as our answers." Oh, there were so many messages on his show. From the minute he entered his little neighborhood when he changed his jacket to his sweater and his shoes to his sneakers, you just knew that the messages were going to be messages you wanted your kids to hear and live by.  Even feeding the fish was symbolic. What did all of this mean? I think for my kids it meant that there was an order in a daily schedule and a sense of taking care of oneself and others, even the fish. I also think that it was a great way of teaching by repetition. Children learn from repetition.  After all, we all do.
Dagger certainly has learned positive reinforcement through repetition. Every morning he nudges my husband, Denis, to get up.  He knows that it's time for his breakfast, his walk down to the park to play ball and visit with his fur buddies. He knows because we do this repeatedly everyday. He also knows that when we enter our studio to paint, I put on my smock and I dress him in his red beret.  This all signifies that it's time to paint. Our little world in the studio is a wonderful place of happiness and joy. We create, sing, play and sometimes we even cuddle up on the old leather couch that sits up against the far wall. A wall that proudly displays Dagger's works of art. 
Repeating positive thoughts and activities creates one to experience good vibes. I know that this can be quite difficult to do during the hard times. It's challenging to say the least. And over the past few years we've all experienced some really hard times. However, we must keep telling ourselves that we are amazing, we can overcome and we are brave. Repeating those words over and over again, can change the negative words into positive ones and we'll begin to see the world in a different light. A light that has hope and meaning. 
Mr. Rogers did just that during his shows for children.  He repeatedly told his little viewers that they were special and deserving. He covered topics that were important in their lives. He kept a routine and made it fun. His "neighborhood" included characters that he saw on a daily basis and interacted with them. Sometimes they had problems that were worked out.  Sometimes there were exciting events that took place where he would help the characters deal with their emotions as they encountered these events. Whatever it was, Mr. Rogers was on the television screen teaching our children (and us, too) lessons of everyday life and occurrences. He reassured these little minds that "It was a beautiful Day in the Neighborhood"  and that "They were special just the way they were."
We need to reassure ourselves that no matter what age we are we too can make any day a beautiful day just by telling ourselves that we are loved, we are deserving and we are special just the way we are. By repeating these words over and over again, we will begin to believe them.  
​I'm gonna try...
​Are you?
Happy Tales to you!
​xoxo Yvonne
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June 2022 Blog

6/1/2022

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Summer in New York


     Here in New York, as the summer months approach, life gets a bit more relaxed and carefree. Outdoor events, BBQ's, water and beach fun are enjoyed by many. Dagger takes such delight in the summer months too. Although he doesn't like to jump into the pool or enter the ocean, he does love watching the waves roll in on the beach shore and hang out at the pool in our back yard.  As much fun as the summer months can be, there are ways with which our dogs can get into trouble if we aren't aware of the many dangers that come with these hot sunny days. 
Dogs are extremely prone to overheating in the summer months.
As responsible dog owners, we must be their advocates and watch for the signs of a dog that is overheated. If you see your dog panting and lethargic, it's time to take him/her into an air conditioned environment and apply cool cloths to his or her head and body. We must be mindful of their well-being in the heat. Besides overheating, their paws can burn on the hot pavement leaving them in pain and discomfort.  They can also become dehydrated. Just like us, they need water at all times.  Without a voice, as their best friends, we must watch for these signs. For your convenience, listed below are some tips that we can all follow no matter where we live in the world to show our love to our fur babies...
To avoid these problems and enjoy the summer season with your pet, here're the tips to keep in mind.
  • Provide plenty of water and shade. ... 
  • Apply sunscreen. ... 
  • Don't shave your pet. ... 
  • Mind your walking hours. ... 
  • Keep your dog's paws cool. ... 
  • Keep parasite off. ... 
  • Consider a life vest. ... 
  • Keep your pets away from fireworks.*
What is good for dogs in summer?
Yogurt mix: Unsweetened yogurt mixed with fruits can also make a great snack. Try mixing yogurt with strawberries and watermelon (without seeds) and serve them frozen to your canine child. This mixture is a good source of anti-oxidants. Banana-Peanut buster mix: Mash banana and mix with all natural peanut butter.*


Make sure your dog is ready to enjoy the warm weather by taking action on these seven summer pet care tips.
  1. Keep your dog up-to-date on heartworm meds. ... 
  2. Stay on top of flea and tick prevention. ... 
  3. Keep your pet pesticide-free. ... 
  4. Watch out for windows. ... 
  5. Practice proper grooming. ... 
  6. Alleviate allergies. ... 
  7. Get your pup microchipped.*
I would also add that many items served at BBQ's are not suitable for dogs to consume.  Sometimes people who attend our backyard parties  may not be aware that your dog can't eat certain things. Without you even knowing they may innocently think that they can "just give them a little."  While they mean well, they may cause your dog to get sick and end up at the emergency veterinarian. You have to let your guests know that your dog only takes treats and food from you and your family members ONLY. And PLEASE, PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG IN A HOT CAR!!!!! 
If you have any other suggestions and tips, please post them below. 
Most importantly, enjoy and be safe!
Happy tales to you!
xoxo Yvonne
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*Taken from : tips for dog owners for the summer months 
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May 2022 Blog

5/1/2022

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Celebrations


Life is full of celebrations.
Especially this time of the year.
PictureUs back on May 6, 1972
On May 6th, Denis and I will be celebrating our 50th Wedding Anniversary.  Fifty Years!! WOW! I can hardly believe it! I remember that day like it was yesterday. It was a beautiful sunny spring day. We had been planning it for years. As High School sweethearts, we knew that we were going to get married from the beginning of our courtship until the day we said, "I Do!" Looking back, we were just two kids trying to make a life for ourselves. We began our married journey together in a two room small apartment upstairs in a house in Baldwin, New York. The rent was $150.00 a month. We had purchased our  "Colonial" style bedroom furniture two years before paying "on time" and it could hardly fit in the bedroom. It was big and bulky and I think we had 24 inches from one piece of furniture to another. Quite honestly, I don't know how we lugged it up the long flight of stairs to our apartment. But we did! We were determined to make it all work. There were two great assets about the place. The first was that it had an awesome stove with an oven that baked the highest and most beautiful cakes and cupcakes I've ever made. The second was that there was a heater in the bathroom that kept us warm as we got ready for work and college. There were the downfalls too. In the summer, it got mighty hot up there with no air conditioning. We  ended up getting a small window air conditioner for the living room/kitchen/dining room area. When we sat at our small kitchen table I had to ask Denis to move to the right because he was blocking the cool air from getting to where I sat.  It was ours, though.  Our first place after we got married. We were so grateful for it.
Then when I got pregnant with our first child it got harder and harder for me to make it up that long flight of stairs.  The months flew by as I continued to work full time while Denis was working and finishing up getting his degree in Education at CW Post. My OBGYN Doctor was in my home town so after work and on my days off I would go for my check-ups and then visit my parents.  I remember my last appointment with him when he told me that it would be only days away from giving birth to my baby (in those days you didn't learn the gender of your baby until you gave birth) and that it would be wise for me not to climb the long flight of stairs to our apartment. So, I stayed at my parents' house until I gave birth. Denis would come over after school and work, to be with me. Then the day came. It was early in the morning. Everyone was still sleeping.  I'll never forget knocking on my parents bedroom door and whispering, "I think it's time." Calls went out to my doctor who instructed us to start to time my contractions. When they were 15 minutes apart we were to go to the hospital which was about 20 minutes away. My paternal grandfather (who lived with my parents at the time) kissed me and told me in Italian "Buona fortuna!" (Translated to English means: Good luck!, God speed!) as Mom and I left for the hospital.  By the time Denis had arrived at my parents house we were already on our way to the hospital.  What I was not aware of was that Denis was traveling from place to place all day long!  He was driving from Baldwin to Massapequa then to Bethpage where the hospital was and back to Massapequa in what I later learned was a very rainy day. He traveled in our MG Midget Triumph Spitfire I used to call our puddle jumper and that day it did a lot of puddle jumping.
 Cell phones were not invented yet so people just relied on pay phones or land lines. Denis was trying to find out where I was..."Was I still at home? or Were we at the hospital already? He kept driving and finally ended up meeting my mom at the hospital.  At the time, husbands were not allowed in the delivery room, so  by the time Denis arrived to the hospital, he just paced and waited to hear the "Good news."  I was in labor for hours before giving birth to a beautiful boy weighing in at 8 pounds 2 ounces and 21 inches long. We named him Denis Jr. I recall my mom saying before I gave birth, "just count the baby's fingers and toes and make sure he or she has ten of each!" I did just that! And he did!! Yay! He's perfect, I thought. And he was.
We ended up living with my parents for about 6 months after I gave birth to Denis Jr. because it was too hot up in our tiny apartment in Baldwin. So, we explained to our landlord that we were moving on and bid our good byes to our first little home.
From there we moved into my grandpa's apartment upstairs in his house in our home town of Massapequa. We lived there for five years until the house next door went up for sale.
Moving into our new home was so exciting. I then became pregnant with our second child. Unfortunately,  I sadly lost that baby. It was such a trying time for Denis Sr. and I. But, shortly after that, I became pregnant again! How wonderful, we thought. However, although the baby looked healthy and fine, I was having issues with the pregnancy. So, I was ordered to have complete bedrest for 6 months. My family, friends and believe it or not, my doctor, helped me during those months in bed. Denis Jr. was a BIG help too.  At only 5 years old, he would tell me what was in refrigerator and I would instruct him what to bring to my bed and we would make lunch together. We ate many tomato and mayo sandwiches during that time. Nine months later, I gave birth to a beautiful girl weighing in at 8 pounds and 2 ounces and 21 inches long.  We named her Andrea.  Remembering what my mom had said 5 years earlier, I counted her fingers and toes. Perfect! There were ten of each!! Yay! Sh
e's perfect, I thought. And she was.
 A few years after the birth of our daughter, we moved from that house to the house we now live in and have lived in for 41 years.
Both of our children are hard working, compassionate adults that we couldn't be prouder of.  Denis is an award winning Math Teacher and basketball Coach in the Bellmore/Merrick School District and Andrea is an award winning Managing Director at a Medical PR firm in NYC.
As the years have past,  I've learned that in order to feel good about life you have to cherish the celebrations.  And we have!!

We've had celebrations of Baptisms, First Holy Communions, School Awards. Chairing Home School Parent events, Confirmations, High School Graduations, College Graduations and marriages just to name some.  But, the greatest were the births of our three grandchildren and welcoming our Stepson.  After 50 years, we can now spoil and dote over them without one bit of guilty indulgence. This coming Saturday our grandson will be making his First Holy Communion. Just another Hallmark in the lives of two High School Sweethearts that trusted in God for His guidance and protection. 
The story and celebrations continue...
​Yippee and Yay!!
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Us Now!
Remember to celebrate life even minute of every day!
​ It's all we have and all we can hope for...
​So...Celebrate!!
​Life!

Happy tales to you.
​xoxo Yvonne
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April 2022 Post

4/1/2022

1 Comment

 
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Is it hard to be kind always?
I think so... 
Especially when someone mistreats you
​or doesn't do what you feel is acceptable behavior.
It's probably one of the hardest things to do.
 
For example, the other day I was at our local Post Office. I witnessed a woman screaming at the person behind the counter. I don't know what happened to set this woman off, but she was visibly and verbally upset.  Her behavior was awful to witness for me and I suppose all of the other customers in the Post Office. She was loud and her language was despicable. I was impressed by the way the Post Office Employee waiting on her handled the situation. He didn't get rattled or combative and kept his composure. As I stood at the counter being waited on by another employee, I thought, "Wow, I don't know if I would be able to take the abuse she was giving to this man. He was being so kind to her!" The woman, however, I'm sad to say, was unable to hold her composure. After spewing out obscenities, she proceeded to storm out of the office pushing her way out.  I found myself outside walking side by side with her to our cars. I said quietly..."Be kind." Her response to me was another obscenity.  How nice, I thought!
When I told my son the story, he said that I shouldn't have said anything to her. After all, he said, "A person so outraged shouldn't be confronted in any way...at all!"  I guess I may have crossed the line, but I couldn't help it. I felt that maybe, just maybe, she would calm down and realize that people are working and trying their best to accommodate their customers. My words may or may not have resonated with her. I'll never know. Sometimes we don't know how we affect people in good or bad ways. We continued to walk to our cars without another word to one another. Her attitude left me questioning my words..."Be Kind."  Maybe she really did have a problem...she certainly "lost it" at that moment in time. Maybe my words "Be kind" came across as scolding her...After all, I was upset that she made a terrible scene only minutes before. I felt bad for the employee. What ever it was she continued her cursing.
"Losing it," is part of life. We are all going to "lose it" at times. Take for example, Will Smith. He lost it at the Oscars when Chris Rock said something about his wife's medical condition. Did Rock go too far with his kibitzing? Should Smith have controlled his emotions? There are always so many parts to why we "Lose it." But, we do. Over and over again.
I "lose it" many times. When I don't get my way or when I try to control situations, I find myself losing it.  Recently, I was on the phone with a representative from a company who was not accommodating me in a way I wished he would and should. Telling me that he couldn't help me in anyway, I felt myself "losing it!" I asked him to connect me with his supervisor. I waited on the line ...which seemed to be forever... and was suddenly greeted by a very nice, calm person who listened to me and tried to the best of his ability to solve my problem. It was refreshing to speak with him. His act of kindness and compassion for me reassured me that kindness does exist  in a world full of unrest and trouble. I told him that the only thing I could do to repay him for his kindness, besides giving him a stellar report, was to pray for him.  He was very appreciative of both.  I will never forget his kindness to me.
Kindness, after all, is free with no strings attached. It can be given and received every minute of everyday!  However, at times it's probably one of the hardest things for us to do. Especially when we encounter a rude or mean person to deal with. I don't know about you, but I have a lot of work to do in this area!
Trying and being aware of the many ways we can show kindness is a lesson I know I need to practice. Small acts of kindness may be small, but to a person going through a difficult time this act could make a huge difference in a person's day. We may never know how our small act of kindness may affect an individual, but that's the greatest part of being kind...you never know or may never know if it worked. How exciting that prospect is!!
​I don't know about you...but I'm gonna try!
​Yes! It is hard to be kind always, we're human, 
after all!
Happy Tales to you!
Happy Easter and Happy Passover!
​...if you celebrate one or both!
xoxo 
Yvonne
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