“The chief condition on which, life, health and vigor depend on, is action. It is by action that an organism develops its faculties, increases its energy, and attains the fulfillment of its destiny.” ~Colin Powell
You really can and must use your talents with intention to impact your life and the lives of those in your family, organization and community.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Friday, June 3, 2011
Summer Pet Care Tips from HomeAgain
Summertime is fun time, but hot weather makes for some unique summer pet care challenges. Although wild animals are well adapted to the elements, companion animals can be just as susceptible to extreme temperatures as their owners are. What does that mean for your pet? When the temperatures get extreme, pet safety should be top of mind. Here are five ways to stay safe while enjoying summer activities with your pet:
1. Respect the heat. Humans aren’t the only animals that can find a hot summer day overwhelming. But unlike you, your pet has a limited ability to deal with the heat. Dogs release heat through their paw pads and by panting, while humans can sweat through all of the skin on their body. Dehydration can be a big problem for pets during the hot weather, too. According to the ASPCA, animals with flat faces—like Pugs and Persian cats—cannot pant as effectively, and are therefore more susceptible to heat stroke. You should also keep an eye on elderly or overweight pets or animals with heart and lung disease. In the summer, make certain that Fido and Fluffy always have access to plenty of fresh, cool water, and avoid letting them run around outside during the hottest parts of the day.
2. Keep bugs away—safely. Another summer pet safety issue is the presence of ticks and other summer insects. Not only can bugs carry diseases, but the ways people try to ward them off can also cause problems for your outdoor pet’s health. Fertilizers and pesticides may help keep a lawn looking great, but they can be very dangerous for your pet. In the areas where your pets play, it’s better to keep the grass cut short to reduce the presence of ticks and other insects. Also keep an eye out for fertilizer warnings on the edge of lawns when walking your dog. Talk to your vet about the best ways to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and other insects that are more prevalent during the summer months.
3. Beware of anti-freeze. In the summertime, anti-freeze can leak out of cars when they overheat, leaving puddles on the ground that your dog can easily lap up and swallow. The sweet taste of anti-freeze is tempting to dogs and cats, but when this toxic substance is ingested, it’s potentially lethal. Pay attention to your neighbors’ cars and potential puddles on your street, and make sure your pets stay clear of it.
4. Find out if your pet needs sunscreen. Some pets, particularly those with short fine hair and pink skin, can also be susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your veterinarian about which types of sunscreen are safest on your pet’s skin, and follow up by routinely applying sunscreen as part of your summer routine. Do not use sunscreen or insect repellents that are not designed specifically for use on animals. The ASPCA says ingesting certain sunscreens can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy in pets.
5. Practice water safety. As with other aspects of summer pet care, water safety is all about thinking ahead. Although it's fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool to stay cool together, always keep a close eye on your pet when they’re in or near the water. Even a strong swimmer could have trouble getting out of a pool, or get trapped by ropes and other obstacles. For more risky summer adventures with your dog, like boating, look into a doggie life preserver. It could be an excellent investment for his safety.
Summer pet safety isn’t hard, it just requires some thought and attention. Watch over your pet the way you would a small child—protect them from too much heat, sun, and other summer dangers—and everything should be just fine.
1. Respect the heat. Humans aren’t the only animals that can find a hot summer day overwhelming. But unlike you, your pet has a limited ability to deal with the heat. Dogs release heat through their paw pads and by panting, while humans can sweat through all of the skin on their body. Dehydration can be a big problem for pets during the hot weather, too. According to the ASPCA, animals with flat faces—like Pugs and Persian cats—cannot pant as effectively, and are therefore more susceptible to heat stroke. You should also keep an eye on elderly or overweight pets or animals with heart and lung disease. In the summer, make certain that Fido and Fluffy always have access to plenty of fresh, cool water, and avoid letting them run around outside during the hottest parts of the day.
2. Keep bugs away—safely. Another summer pet safety issue is the presence of ticks and other summer insects. Not only can bugs carry diseases, but the ways people try to ward them off can also cause problems for your outdoor pet’s health. Fertilizers and pesticides may help keep a lawn looking great, but they can be very dangerous for your pet. In the areas where your pets play, it’s better to keep the grass cut short to reduce the presence of ticks and other insects. Also keep an eye out for fertilizer warnings on the edge of lawns when walking your dog. Talk to your vet about the best ways to protect your pet from fleas, ticks, and other insects that are more prevalent during the summer months.
3. Beware of anti-freeze. In the summertime, anti-freeze can leak out of cars when they overheat, leaving puddles on the ground that your dog can easily lap up and swallow. The sweet taste of anti-freeze is tempting to dogs and cats, but when this toxic substance is ingested, it’s potentially lethal. Pay attention to your neighbors’ cars and potential puddles on your street, and make sure your pets stay clear of it.
4. Find out if your pet needs sunscreen. Some pets, particularly those with short fine hair and pink skin, can also be susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your veterinarian about which types of sunscreen are safest on your pet’s skin, and follow up by routinely applying sunscreen as part of your summer routine. Do not use sunscreen or insect repellents that are not designed specifically for use on animals. The ASPCA says ingesting certain sunscreens can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and lethargy in pets.
5. Practice water safety. As with other aspects of summer pet care, water safety is all about thinking ahead. Although it's fun to bring your pet to the beach or pool to stay cool together, always keep a close eye on your pet when they’re in or near the water. Even a strong swimmer could have trouble getting out of a pool, or get trapped by ropes and other obstacles. For more risky summer adventures with your dog, like boating, look into a doggie life preserver. It could be an excellent investment for his safety.
Summer pet safety isn’t hard, it just requires some thought and attention. Watch over your pet the way you would a small child—protect them from too much heat, sun, and other summer dangers—and everything should be just fine.
There's More To Bass Lake Than The Water
Mother Nature is reluctant to give us some warm weather this spring. Cooler temperatures combined with heavy snow melt feeding Willow Creek and Pines Creek mean that our normally pleasant water temperature may take a while to warm up this summer. Don't fret. If you find your teeth chattering while water skiing or swimming try out some of the other great activities around the area.
Fishing:
Local fishing guides report that the trout and kokanee bite has been good this spring. Bring your rods, tackle and a cooler and drop a line while enjoying the view of Goat Mountain. Too much boat traffic on the water for fishing? Head up Willow Creek and try your luck in one of the many great fishing holes.
Hiking:
There are lots of different hiking trails in the area offering a wide variety of experience. Be sure to pack plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.
Willow Creek and Angel Falls: This is one of the most strenuous hikes around Bass Lake. The trail begins at the Falls Beach on North Shore Road and winds up the mountain along Willow Creek for 2.7 miles, ending at McLeod Flat Road. The two main attractions on this hike are Angel Falls and Devils Slide. Use extreme caution on this hike. Rocks can be extremely slippery and the creek itself hold multiple whirlpools. There have been numerous injuries and even some deaths.
Goat Mountain/Spring Cove: On the south side of the lake, Goat Mountain fire lookout is accessible via the Spring Cove Trail and the Goat Mountain Trail. The Goat Mountain Trail begins in the Forks campground. The Spring Cove trail begins on the east side of Spring Cove campground. Both trails intersect in about an 1/8th of a mile.
Way of the Mono Trail: This is one of the most popular and most used trails. The self guided loop is about 1/2 mile long, offering a great vista point to view the lake. Signs along the trail describe who the Mono people were and how they lived. The trail begins across from the Little Denver Church Day Use Area.
Browns Ditch Trail: Although not an official trail, this 2.5 mile route is clear and very easy to walk. Browns Ditch is the cement flume that brings water to the lake. The route begins where Road 274 meets Central Camp Road and runs along the flume. At points you must walk on the steel walkway over the water. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ENTER THE WATER. The fast current and steep walls make it dangerous.
Museums
Take in some of our local Madera County history at one of our many museums. These musuems are all within a quick 10-20 minute drive from Bass Lake:
Coarsegold Historic Museum, 31899 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Fresno Flats Historical Park, 49777 Road 427, Oakhurst
Kings Vintage Museum, 40680 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Sierra Mono Museum, 33108 Road 228, North Fork
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad/Thornberry Museum, 56001 Highway 41, Fish Camp
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway
The Scenis Byway is one of the most beautiful drives in the area. The route begins at Beasore Road (off of Road 274 just up from the Pines Village) and winds through the Sierra National Forest, ending in North Fork. Along the way enjoy views of Mammoth Pools, Redinger Lake, Mile High Vista, Arch Rock, Portuguese Overlook, Fresno Dome and many more. Pack a lunch and enjoy a quiet picnic along the way. The Byway is a full day trip but the natural wonders and beauty along this way make this drive well worth it.
Golfing
There are two very nice golf course near Bass Lake.
Sierra Meadows: 46516 Opah Drive, Oakhurst
River Creek: 41709 Road 600, Ahwahnee
Both courses offer pro shops and cafes.
If you're in the mood for a challenge take the drive up to Wawona and try your luck on the famous Wawona Golf Course. The course is located in Wawona next to the historic Wawona Hotel.
Fishing:
Local fishing guides report that the trout and kokanee bite has been good this spring. Bring your rods, tackle and a cooler and drop a line while enjoying the view of Goat Mountain. Too much boat traffic on the water for fishing? Head up Willow Creek and try your luck in one of the many great fishing holes.
Hiking:
There are lots of different hiking trails in the area offering a wide variety of experience. Be sure to pack plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.
Willow Creek and Angel Falls: This is one of the most strenuous hikes around Bass Lake. The trail begins at the Falls Beach on North Shore Road and winds up the mountain along Willow Creek for 2.7 miles, ending at McLeod Flat Road. The two main attractions on this hike are Angel Falls and Devils Slide. Use extreme caution on this hike. Rocks can be extremely slippery and the creek itself hold multiple whirlpools. There have been numerous injuries and even some deaths.
Goat Mountain/Spring Cove: On the south side of the lake, Goat Mountain fire lookout is accessible via the Spring Cove Trail and the Goat Mountain Trail. The Goat Mountain Trail begins in the Forks campground. The Spring Cove trail begins on the east side of Spring Cove campground. Both trails intersect in about an 1/8th of a mile.
Way of the Mono Trail: This is one of the most popular and most used trails. The self guided loop is about 1/2 mile long, offering a great vista point to view the lake. Signs along the trail describe who the Mono people were and how they lived. The trail begins across from the Little Denver Church Day Use Area.
Browns Ditch Trail: Although not an official trail, this 2.5 mile route is clear and very easy to walk. Browns Ditch is the cement flume that brings water to the lake. The route begins where Road 274 meets Central Camp Road and runs along the flume. At points you must walk on the steel walkway over the water. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ENTER THE WATER. The fast current and steep walls make it dangerous.
Museums
Take in some of our local Madera County history at one of our many museums. These musuems are all within a quick 10-20 minute drive from Bass Lake:
Coarsegold Historic Museum, 31899 Highway 41, Coarsegold
Fresno Flats Historical Park, 49777 Road 427, Oakhurst
Kings Vintage Museum, 40680 Highway 41, Oakhurst
Sierra Mono Museum, 33108 Road 228, North Fork
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad/Thornberry Museum, 56001 Highway 41, Fish Camp
Sierra Vista Scenic Byway
Golfing
There are two very nice golf course near Bass Lake.
Sierra Meadows: 46516 Opah Drive, Oakhurst
River Creek: 41709 Road 600, Ahwahnee
Both courses offer pro shops and cafes.
If you're in the mood for a challenge take the drive up to Wawona and try your luck on the famous Wawona Golf Course. The course is located in Wawona next to the historic Wawona Hotel.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Action Brings Happiness
"Action may not always bring happiness; but there is no happiness without action" ~Benjamin Disraeli
Happiness does not happen to you. You achieve a state of happiness through your conscious actions. You have to get up and look up to see the beautiful sunrise. You have to hug your partner to feel the comfort and contentment of their embrace. You have to work with passionate intent to bask in the glow of the promotion or recognition. In fact the first action to take to find happiness is simply to be happy. Happy people find happiness, and they recognize setbacks as learning opportunities to recalibrate and take more action.
Happiness does not happen to you. You achieve a state of happiness through your conscious actions. You have to get up and look up to see the beautiful sunrise. You have to hug your partner to feel the comfort and contentment of their embrace. You have to work with passionate intent to bask in the glow of the promotion or recognition. In fact the first action to take to find happiness is simply to be happy. Happy people find happiness, and they recognize setbacks as learning opportunities to recalibrate and take more action.
Choosing Corrective Dog Glasses
Most dogs with failing eyesight learn to adapt to seeing less. His owners are usually instructed to avoid rearranging furniture or making drastic changes to the home that will confuse a dog with poor eyesight.
Dogs losing their sight are often easily frightened and may be more prone to biting if they are startled. Handling the dog's disability can be challenging and even frustrating, but a pair of prescription Doggles can end that stress.
A veterinary ophthalmologist can view the anatomy of the eye to determine the dog's prescription strength. This prescription is then sent to Doggles, where the glasses are made, often for less than $100.
Prescription Doggles are giving sight back to many dogs, such as those who have had a natural decline in the quality of their eyesight, dogs with cataracts, and dogs who are farsighted due to cataracts surgery without lens implants.
Dogs losing their sight are often easily frightened and may be more prone to biting if they are startled. Handling the dog's disability can be challenging and even frustrating, but a pair of prescription Doggles can end that stress.
A veterinary ophthalmologist can view the anatomy of the eye to determine the dog's prescription strength. This prescription is then sent to Doggles, where the glasses are made, often for less than $100.
Prescription Doggles are giving sight back to many dogs, such as those who have had a natural decline in the quality of their eyesight, dogs with cataracts, and dogs who are farsighted due to cataracts surgery without lens implants.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Century 21 Disaster Relief Fund, Rick Davidson, President & CEO
Tornadoes and severe weather have affected a significant number of people throughout a number of states over the last few weeks. At least seven CENTURY 21 System offices have been impacted both directly and indirectly including three CENTURY 21 Agents that have lost everything.
Our International Headquarters staff has been reaching out to CENTURY 21 brokers throughout these regions to determine what type of assistance we may be able to provide.
Beyond the impact of these disasters on the CENTURY 21 family, we care about all the victims.
To facilitate CENTURY 21 System member donations to relief efforts, we have launched a special fundraising campaign for the benefit of people most impacted, through the American Red Cross. We will collect and disburse our donations through our parent company Realogy's philanthropic arm, the Realogy Charitable Foundation*.
I encourage you to join us in our fundraising efforts and help those who so desperately need our support at this critical time. Click here to make your contribution. If you prefer to make a donation by check, you may do so by making the check payable to: "RCF- American Red Cross" and mailing it to:
Realogy Charitable Foundation
Attention: CENTURY 21 Disaster Relief Fund
1 Campus Drive
Parsippany, NJ 07054
With the collective support of our CENTURY 21 family, we can make a positive difference in the recovery effort. Thank you for supporting the people whose lives have been disrupted by these terrible disasters.
Sincerely,
Rick Davidson
President & CEO
Century 21 Real Estate LLC
*The Realogy Charitable Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) public charity supporting the philanthropic and volunteer activities of Realogy Corporation and its family of companies in the communities where we have a presence. The Realogy Charitable Foundation will distribute 100 percent of all funds collected for this charitable cause. All gifts are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law, and you should consult your tax professional to determine the amount you can claim as a tax deductible contribution.
Ordinary...Extraordinary
"Since most of us spend our lives doing ordinary tasks, the most important thing is to carry them out extraordinarily well." ~Thoreau
We are the most content and inspired when we live our lives with the intention for excellence. No matter what the task or interaction, strive to engage each with your best efforts. You won't always succeed and can find yourself less energized and even depressed when you give less of yourself. When we focus with intention to bring the best of ourselves to every encounter and activity, we create amazing impact and bring about our own satisfaction and happiness.
We are the most content and inspired when we live our lives with the intention for excellence. No matter what the task or interaction, strive to engage each with your best efforts. You won't always succeed and can find yourself less energized and even depressed when you give less of yourself. When we focus with intention to bring the best of ourselves to every encounter and activity, we create amazing impact and bring about our own satisfaction and happiness.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Healthy Dog Signs
There are several signs that may indicate a problem with your dog. It is important to recognize what they are and have your pet evaluated. Problem signs include a lack of appetite, decreased activity, weakness, changes in water consumption, not grooming, bad breath, sleeping more, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, trouble breathing, frequent urinations or bloody urinations.
Watch your dog carefully for any sign of illness. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, please contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency clinic as soon as possible.
Watch your dog carefully for any sign of illness. If you notice any of these signs in your dog, please contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency clinic as soon as possible.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
It's In The Doing
"The great composer does not set to work because he is inspired, but becomes inspired because he is working. Beethoven, Wagner, Bach and Mozart settled down day after day to the job in hand with as much regularity as an accountant settles down each day to his figures. They didn't waste time waiting for inspiration." ~Ernest Newman
It is in the doing that inspiration strikes. You can apply this to any pursuit, creative or otherwise. You want love? Then love. You want health? Act in healthy ways. It truly is in the doing that we are finally inspired to be and do what we desire.
It is in the doing that inspiration strikes. You can apply this to any pursuit, creative or otherwise. You want love? Then love. You want health? Act in healthy ways. It truly is in the doing that we are finally inspired to be and do what we desire.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Exercising Your Senior Dog
Some Exercise and play is important to all dogs, including your elderly dog.
First of all, exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight may lead to a number of health problems. It places excess stress on your pet's heart. Excess weight on degenerating joints can speed up the development of arthritis.
Your elderly dog's mental health may also benefit from exercise. Activity keeps oxygen and other nutrients at optimum levels in the brain. The brain is like every other organ in the body in that it requires good nutrition.
First of all, exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight may lead to a number of health problems. It places excess stress on your pet's heart. Excess weight on degenerating joints can speed up the development of arthritis.
Your elderly dog's mental health may also benefit from exercise. Activity keeps oxygen and other nutrients at optimum levels in the brain. The brain is like every other organ in the body in that it requires good nutrition.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Magic
"The universe is full of magical things patiently waiting for our wits to grow sharper." ~E. Phillpots
I truly believe the universe offers us limitless possibilities waiting for us to find a path toward their discovery. I believe it starts with the assumption the magic exists and the actively positive nature of our everyday behaviors and thoughts. I am always seeking to 'sharpen my wits' of awareness so as to see the magic as it appears. I have found much magic in my life and look forward to discovering more! How about you?
I truly believe the universe offers us limitless possibilities waiting for us to find a path toward their discovery. I believe it starts with the assumption the magic exists and the actively positive nature of our everyday behaviors and thoughts. I am always seeking to 'sharpen my wits' of awareness so as to see the magic as it appears. I have found much magic in my life and look forward to discovering more! How about you?
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Town Hall Meeting May 19th
________________________________________
TOWN HALL MEETING
THURSDAY, MAY 19
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
OAKHURST COMMUNITY CENTER
39800 Road 425B, Oakhurst
Featuring Special Guest
CONGRESSMAN JEFF DENHAM
DISCUSSION TOPICS:
*Update on Federal Budget
* Update on Madera County Budget
*General Discussion on District 5 Issues
HOSTED BY: Supervisor Tom Wheeler, District 5
For more information, contact Supervisor Wheeler at (559) 662-6050.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Bass Lake Farmers Market Starts Wednesday May 18th
While Mother Nature may be reluctant to let go of winter the Bass Lake Farmers Market season kickoff tomorrow, May 18th, is a sure sign that summer is right around the corner. Grab your jackets and head on out to Good Ol Daze for fresh fruit and veggies from around the San Joaquin Valley.
Crisis
"Faced with crisis, the man of character falls back on himself. He imposes his own stamp of action, takes responsibility for it, makes it his own." ~Charles de Gaulle
It is common to look outside for the causes of a personal, organizational or community crisis. That path almost always leads to unnecessary and misplaced animosity. The key to resolving crises is to look internally and discover the actions you can take to move past the crisis, learn and evolve. Think of a challenge you are facing and rather than looking for blame or other external causes, determine what you will do, now, to make a positive move to learn from and move past the challenge.
It is common to look outside for the causes of a personal, organizational or community crisis. That path almost always leads to unnecessary and misplaced animosity. The key to resolving crises is to look internally and discover the actions you can take to move past the crisis, learn and evolve. Think of a challenge you are facing and rather than looking for blame or other external causes, determine what you will do, now, to make a positive move to learn from and move past the challenge.
Friday, May 13, 2011
Oakhurst Quilt Show
Saturday - 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Sunday - 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Attendance Fee: $7
At this quilt show, attendees will have the opportunity to see more than one hundred, unique, hand-crafted quilts created by local quilters and fiber artists.
Featured Quilter, Lura Schwartz-Smith is an internationally renowned, award winning quilter, fiber artist, teacher, and author. Lura will be present at the show both days to display examples of her work and talk with attendees. See www.lura-art.com for more information about Lura.
Sunday - 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Attendance Fee: $7
At this quilt show, attendees will have the opportunity to see more than one hundred, unique, hand-crafted quilts created by local quilters and fiber artists.
Featured Quilter, Lura Schwartz-Smith is an internationally renowned, award winning quilter, fiber artist, teacher, and author. Lura will be present at the show both days to display examples of her work and talk with attendees. See www.lura-art.com for more information about Lura.
Relay for Life
The American Cancer Society's Relay for Life will be held at the Wasuma Elementary School Track from Saturday 9 am till Sunday 9 am, for 24 hrs. Local residents will walk the track to raise money for the American Cancer Society and to raise fund for cancer awareness, services and research, for more information contact 559-658-6420 or toll free 1-800-ACS-2345.
2st Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show This Weekend
The 21st Annual Antique & Classic Boat Show will be held at Bass Lake on Saturday, May 14th. Sponsored by the Bass Lake Lions Club, the show will feature over 50 of the finest preserved and restored watercraft to be found on the west coast. The show is the annual rendezvous of the Southern and Northern California Chapters of the Antique and Classic Boat Society of America and promises to be one of the largest of the season in California.
The show takes place on the docks in front of Ducey’s On The Lake in the Pines Village on the north shore of Bass Lake. Show hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission fee to see the boats is $3.00 per person and all proceeds go toward sight preservation and other community projects supported by the Bass Lake Lions, including a camp for deaf and sight impaired children.
Bring your old eyeglasses, cell phones and hearing aids for recycling and get 2 free raffle tickets for the mega drawing.
For more information, please call Jim Milligin at (559) 642-3420
The show takes place on the docks in front of Ducey’s On The Lake in the Pines Village on the north shore of Bass Lake. Show hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission fee to see the boats is $3.00 per person and all proceeds go toward sight preservation and other community projects supported by the Bass Lake Lions, including a camp for deaf and sight impaired children.
Bring your old eyeglasses, cell phones and hearing aids for recycling and get 2 free raffle tickets for the mega drawing.
For more information, please call Jim Milligin at (559) 642-3420
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Make Every Moment Count
"Ichigo Ichie" the motto in the Japanese tea ceremony which means "one time, one encounter." This for us is a cue to see every moment as special and unrepeatable; it banishes boredom since no experience is ever the same. ~Unknown
Today will only happen today. Will you treat it as unremarkable, going through the motions as though you have infinite tomorrows? Or will you recognize today and each of it's moments for the precious gifts they are? Be fully present for each encounter today and see if you can't find the magic in each. It is there if we only open our minds and hearts to possibility.
Today will only happen today. Will you treat it as unremarkable, going through the motions as though you have infinite tomorrows? Or will you recognize today and each of it's moments for the precious gifts they are? Be fully present for each encounter today and see if you can't find the magic in each. It is there if we only open our minds and hearts to possibility.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Ladder of Success
"As you climb the ladder of success, be sure it's leaning against the right building." ~H. Jackson Brown, Jr.
As we work so very hard to achieve our career and personal ambitions, it is wise to pause and reflect regularly to ensure the path we are on is leading to what we truly desire. The reasons we had for embarking on our path may have changed, and the end of the journey may no longer be a desired state. Pause. Reflect. Redirect if necessary and then move forward again with a heightened sense of purpose and passion!
As we work so very hard to achieve our career and personal ambitions, it is wise to pause and reflect regularly to ensure the path we are on is leading to what we truly desire. The reasons we had for embarking on our path may have changed, and the end of the journey may no longer be a desired state. Pause. Reflect. Redirect if necessary and then move forward again with a heightened sense of purpose and passion!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Spring With Your Pets
Spring is finally here, and it’s a great time to enjoy the weather with your dog. If you’re the spring cleaning type, it’s also a good time to refresh your home and get yourself and your pets ready for the warm weather ahead. So, here are five things you might want to do for your pets in spring:
1-Make a grooming appointment. At our house, grooming means me giving the dogs a bath in the yard, and letting the cats tend to themselves. In spring, dogs might need an extra nail trimming, too, if they went on fewer walks (which can naturally wear down nails) during the winter. Also, as embarrassing as it may be for your dog, it may be time to excise those anal glands. I know, not the most romantic aspect of owning a dog; but still a point to consider. They're no happier about this than you are, but better to get those glands cleaned than see your "Little Precious" scooting her hind end across your freshly cleaned carpet.
2-Get a jump on fleas. If you like to use holistic/natural products to treat your home, yard and pets for fleas, early spring is the time to think about getting started. There are non-toxic powders you can use to treat your carpets and even your hardwood floors, there are beneficial nematodes for your yard and even sprays for your pet’s bedding and your pet — but you’ll want to start using these products early in the season for maximum effectiveness. I have learned to avoid any of those mass advertised drops for fleas. They tend to irritate both of my dogs skin and send them into a lather. Best to use regular baths, powder their bods and bedding, flea collars and oral medication. If you notice fleas on your pets don't waste time in eradicating the little bastards. Not only can they make your pets itchy and irritable...they can cause intestinal worms and diahrrea. 3-Make landscaping or gardening plans with your pets in mind. Did you know there are many plants that are toxic to pets? For example, that bright yellow flower that signals spring has arrived — the Daffodil — is toxic to both cats and dogs (as well as horses.) The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which runs a pet poison control hotline, provides a resource on plants that are toxic and non-toxic to pets. Don’t worry — there are many beautiful plants that won’t hurt your pet.
4-Do a spring cleaning. Spring is a good time to give your pets’ favorite items a good cleaning (it’s surprising how much hair can accumulate in the crevices of a pet bed) and to go through their toys and other items. If you have toys sitting around that your pet doesn’t like or play with — or even treats or pet care products you’re not using — consider donating them to your local animal rescue or shelter.
5-Get out and have fun. Spring is such a wonderful time of year. So, open a window for your cat to get some fresh air or take a long walk with your dog.
1-Make a grooming appointment. At our house, grooming means me giving the dogs a bath in the yard, and letting the cats tend to themselves. In spring, dogs might need an extra nail trimming, too, if they went on fewer walks (which can naturally wear down nails) during the winter. Also, as embarrassing as it may be for your dog, it may be time to excise those anal glands. I know, not the most romantic aspect of owning a dog; but still a point to consider. They're no happier about this than you are, but better to get those glands cleaned than see your "Little Precious" scooting her hind end across your freshly cleaned carpet.
2-Get a jump on fleas. If you like to use holistic/natural products to treat your home, yard and pets for fleas, early spring is the time to think about getting started. There are non-toxic powders you can use to treat your carpets and even your hardwood floors, there are beneficial nematodes for your yard and even sprays for your pet’s bedding and your pet — but you’ll want to start using these products early in the season for maximum effectiveness. I have learned to avoid any of those mass advertised drops for fleas. They tend to irritate both of my dogs skin and send them into a lather. Best to use regular baths, powder their bods and bedding, flea collars and oral medication. If you notice fleas on your pets don't waste time in eradicating the little bastards. Not only can they make your pets itchy and irritable...they can cause intestinal worms and diahrrea. 3-Make landscaping or gardening plans with your pets in mind. Did you know there are many plants that are toxic to pets? For example, that bright yellow flower that signals spring has arrived — the Daffodil — is toxic to both cats and dogs (as well as horses.) The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which runs a pet poison control hotline, provides a resource on plants that are toxic and non-toxic to pets. Don’t worry — there are many beautiful plants that won’t hurt your pet.
4-Do a spring cleaning. Spring is a good time to give your pets’ favorite items a good cleaning (it’s surprising how much hair can accumulate in the crevices of a pet bed) and to go through their toys and other items. If you have toys sitting around that your pet doesn’t like or play with — or even treats or pet care products you’re not using — consider donating them to your local animal rescue or shelter.
5-Get out and have fun. Spring is such a wonderful time of year. So, open a window for your cat to get some fresh air or take a long walk with your dog.
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