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: |
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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
Picasso's Painting Debute Event
I was working on a pet portrait commission in our studio while the dogs were hanging out on the floor and couch when suddenly, I noticed Picasso making his way over to his workstation and bumping his snout on the canvas. At first, I didn’t think anything of his meandering over to his easel until he kept bumping his snout on the canvas. He had been working on that painting the day before. Was he telling me he wanted to paint? Or did he just want me to stop painting my commission?
After my experience with Dagger DogVinci and his story of how we discovered his talent, I’ve learned that going with the information relayed to me was the best way for him to lead us on the unbelievable eight-year journey of painting, workshops and giving. .
So, I placed my brush on my palette and walked over to Picasso asking him if he wanted to paint. His tail wagged like crazy! He was a happy little artist! I’m thrilled to witness him enjoying painting so much.
After my experience with Dagger DogVinci and his story of how we discovered his talent, I’ve learned that going with the information relayed to me was the best way for him to lead us on the unbelievable eight-year journey of painting, workshops and giving. .
So, I placed my brush on my palette and walked over to Picasso asking him if he wanted to paint. His tail wagged like crazy! He was a happy little artist! I’m thrilled to witness him enjoying painting so much.
Sometimes I'll even find him sleeping on the mat near his easel (which was Dagger's mat for years). It's interesting to me to see how he's taken to the same space that Dagger painted in for so many years. And he finds it a fun happy place just like Dagger did.
If you asked me a year ago if my life would be taking such a serendipitous turn I'd think you were out of your mind or dreaming. But, here we are with two beautiful fur babies to love. One paints and the other is his muse.
"Both Alexander Graham Bell and Helen Keller are credited with this statement: “When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” It's literally taken me 8 months to see this statement come to fruition and to see the other door open for me.
I'm so grateful for the people and animals I've met on our journey over the years from all over the world. Our journey continues with Barney and Picasso.
I'm excited to announce that Picasso will be painting at
Canine Companions Gala event this coming October...
Canine Companions Gala event this coming October...
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2024 | 6:30 P.M.
340 RXR PLAZA
UNIONDALE, NY 11553
340 RXR PLAZA
UNIONDALE, NY 11553
Please Save the date to join us for Sit Stay Sparkle, an evening to celebrate and support the mission of Canine Companions - to provide expertly trained service dogs to people with disabilities, free of charge. Enjoy Sit Stay Sparkle at the beautiful RXR Plaza in Uniondale, New York.
Enjoy local wine, beer and a delicious dinner; get to know our clients and their life-changing service dogs; meet adorable puppies; bid on exciting items in our live and silent auctions; and watch Picasso the painting dog create a masterpiece, then bid on the painting and take it home! Tickets are available at canine.org/sparklenortheast.
Enjoy local wine, beer and a delicious dinner; get to know our clients and their life-changing service dogs; meet adorable puppies; bid on exciting items in our live and silent auctions; and watch Picasso the painting dog create a masterpiece, then bid on the painting and take it home! Tickets are available at canine.org/sparklenortheast.
I sure hope you can make it!
Picasso and I will be there painting and having a howl of a time!!
Happy June everyone!!
If you celebrate Father's Day...Enjoy every minute!
Happy Tales to You!
xoxo Yvonne
Picasso and I will be there painting and having a howl of a time!!
Happy June everyone!!
If you celebrate Father's Day...Enjoy every minute!
Happy Tales to You!
xoxo Yvonne
Spring has Sprung
I love all of the tulips bravely reaching up to the sky
like proud blooms for all to see.
Here in New York, spring has certainly sprung!
like proud blooms for all to see.
Here in New York, spring has certainly sprung!
To me, spring time is always a time that signifies new life.
"Why is it called spring? It was not until the 1300s that the term lent was replaced by springing time, since it was the time of year when most plants that had been dormant over the fall and winter finally began to grow again, or spring from the earth." *1
"Why is it called spring? It was not until the 1300s that the term lent was replaced by springing time, since it was the time of year when most plants that had been dormant over the fall and winter finally began to grow again, or spring from the earth." *1
"One of the most common symbols of spring is the promise of renewal. After months of cold weather and barren landscapes, spring brings new growth and life. Trees begin to bud, flowers bloom, and animals awaken from hibernation. This renewal symbolizes hope for a better future and a fresh start." *2
It's quite evident to witness this renewal, rebirth, and regrowth. As an artist, I love the colors that emerge from the soil. Majestically flowers stand confidently in gardens all over the world as they herald in spring. The month of May with its May Crownings and May Poles brings a smile to faces and a promise for a hopeful future. I believe that Spring brings hope to our otherwise fractured world. Being hopeful is a really good thing. We can't solve all of the problems we have. We can try, but we can only do just so much! It's important to know that we're trying our best. Trying is a really good thing, too! Being hopeful makes the future seem bright.
Spring is a time to get outside to plant, walk and explore.
As the old adage says," Take a little time to smell the flowers!"
Go ahead! You'll be renewed and happy you did!
If you celebrate Mother's Day, I wish you a beautiful day filled with joyful moments and blessings galore!
Enjoy every minute!
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
As the old adage says," Take a little time to smell the flowers!"
Go ahead! You'll be renewed and happy you did!
If you celebrate Mother's Day, I wish you a beautiful day filled with joyful moments and blessings galore!
Enjoy every minute!
Happy tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
Serendipity
Whenever I think of the word "Serendipity" I always think of a place in New York City we used to take the kids to for ice cream. The name intrigued me whenever we went there. The place was filled from top to bottom with whimsical and unique things. The food was always good. But most times we just went there for the ice cream sundaes and their signature hot chocolate. It was like an old fashioned iconic ice cream parlor. The original Serendipity closed and recently reopened as Serendipity3. We haven't ventured back, but my memories of the place remain very joyful and happy. I often wondered why they chose the name "Serendipity." The term “serendipity” is a circumstance or event characterized by a fortunate or happy accident, or an unexpected and pleasant discovery. What was the serendipitous event that brought the owners to choose that name for their restaurant? That always sparked my curiousty. So, I went on their web site and this is what I found in the "About" section: "The home of amazing food and decadent desserts, such as the world-famous Frozen Hot Chocolate, Serendipity3 restaurant has been captivating millions of patrons since its inception. It’s an enchanting place where artists and actors of both the past and the present come for inspiration.It has been said that our sundaes make you feel like a child again. That’s been our aim since the beginning— and we’ve been transporting our customers back to their happy places ever since."
So, now I guess you're wondering why the word serendipity is so fascinating to me at this point in my life. You see, ever since Barney and Picasso entered our lives everything that brought them to us was in a way a serendipitous happening. Barney was found wandering the streets of Georgia almost a year before he arrived to our home. He was fostered in Georgia because he was a great neutral dog for the other rescues coming into the small shelter he was brought to. And the shelter he was coming up to on Long Island, Forgotten Friends of Long Island, was full and didn't have a kennel for him. He ended up waiting and waiting for months in Georgia. Then when we lost Dagger in January, Forgotten Friends of Long Island reached out to us and asked if we would foster this little guy who had been waiting for months for a forever loving home. Beth, the President of FFLI, said she just didn't have the heart to leave him down there any longer...I must confess,I really hesitated to take him. I was still so grief stricken with Dagger's passing that I couldn't see myself opening my heart to another dog. I felt I needed more time. Beth told me that she really needed me to foster him..."just for a little while," she said. I gave in and agreed. His name at the time was "Patriot"...they called him "Pate" for short. When he arrived, after being on a journey in a transporter which took almost 24 hours, he stepped out of the back of Beth's car and placed his head in my lap and cuddled with me. That was it! He was mine! Forever more! He reminded me of Sunrise Senior Living Facility's dog, Barney. That's where Miss YaYa used to do her Therapy Dog work with Princess Penny. Barney loved Miss YaYa. Whenever we arrived for our visit at Sunrise, wherever he was in the place, he would come charging down the stairs and start kissing Miss YaYa all over the place. He was so smitten over her. So, we renamed Pate "Barney."
L to R: Barney, Miss YaYa and Princess Penny
Before Barney became our forever dog, I applied to be a Canine Companions Therapy Dog Handler. I was happy that I passed the application process. Now I had to wait for a dog to be released from their Service Dog Program. Which, by the way, doesn't happen too often. So, I waited. In the meantime, our Barney was such a warm, cuddly little guy that my grief began to lessen and he filled the sadness I felt in my heart.
Then one day I received an email from Canine Companions. It said "Picasso is being released." I chucked when I read it because I thought it was a joke! I called the center right away and asked about this guy named "Picasso." It turned out that Picasso had been matriculated into the next phase of becoming a Service dog. However, he began to exhibit kennel stress. His Professional Trainer, Alex, told Denis and I that she felt he'd make a great CC Therapy Dog and wanted to know if we wanted to adopt him so that I would bond with him and train him to be a therapy dog for them. I saw pictures of him and immediately thought of Miss YaYa. He looks just like her. We agreed to meet him and fell madly in love with him. We adopted him on the spot!! But...the best part is that Alex told us she was already working with him on his painting skills. "Painting Skills?," I asked. Yup! He was learning how to paint!! Since his adoption, Picasso has perfected his painting skills and has been certified as a Canine Companion Therapy Dog with me as his handler. In addition, he achieved his AKC CGC Certification. We're now ready to do our Therapy work!
I now have two dogs that resemble dogs that have graced my life in the past. If you wondered if I thought Dagger, Miss YaYa and Sunrise Barney had something to do with this fortunate, unexpected happening...You are right!!!
Now, if that isn't serendipitous...I don't know what is!!
Barney & CC Therapy Dog Picasso
If you celebrate Easter... Have a Happy Blessed Easter!
If you don't...Happy blessed Spring!
Whatever you do take kindness with you!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
If you don't...Happy blessed Spring!
Whatever you do take kindness with you!
Happy Tales to you,
xoxo Yvonne
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A Place where I can Bark, Blog and Woof a Little
written by Yvonne Dagger
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