Posted in Updates

The Doberman Diaries: Why Atlas is the Best Companion Ever

Hey there, dog lovers! Let me take you on a joyful journey through the world of Dobermans with my own incredible companion, Atlas. If you’re contemplating adding a Dobie to your life or just curious about why this breed holds a special place in my heart, then get ready for a fun and enlightening read!

Meet the Marvel: My Doberman, Atlas

First things first, allow me to introduce you to the star of the show: Atlas! He’s my stunning, sleek Doberman who’s packed with personality and charm. From his glossy coat to his striking eyes, Atlas is the epitome of Doberman elegance. But it’s not just about the looks—this breed is a complete package of charisma, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty.

A Heart as Big as Their Bark

One of the most delightful surprises about Dobermans is how incredibly loving they are. Despite their tough-guy reputation, they’re known for their affectionate and devoted nature. Atlas is a prime example. He seems to have a special knack for sensing when I’m feeling down or stressed, always ready with a nuzzle or a playful paw to brighten my day. It’s like he has his own little sixth sense for my emotions!

Brainy and Beautiful

If you’re looking for a dog who’s both brains and beauty, look no further than the Doberman. Atlas isn’t just striking with his sleek, muscular build but also impressively smart. Training him has been an absolute pleasure. He learns commands faster than I can say “sit” and thrives on mental challenges. Whether it’s mastering new tricks or engaging in a game of hide-and-seek, Atlas’s intelligence makes every moment with him exciting and rewarding.

The Ideal Workout Buddy

Let’s talk about energy. Dobermans are known for their high energy levels and need for regular exercise, and Atlas is no exception. He’s the ultimate workout partner—always eager for a run, hike, or game of fetch. If you’re an active person or looking to boost your activity levels, a Doberman can be a fantastic motivator. Trust me, you won’t be skipping workouts when you’ve got a Dobie like Atlas bouncing with excitement!

Loyalty Like No Other

One standout trait of Dobermans is their unwavering loyalty. Atlas is fiercely protective and devoted, making me feel completely safe and secure. He’s got an instinctive nature that makes him a great guard dog, but he’s also incredibly gentle and loving with friends and family. His loyalty is a constant reminder of how special our bond is.

Grooming and Care: A Breeze

Some might think a Doberman’s short coat means high maintenance, but Atlas proves otherwise. His sleek fur requires just a weekly brushing to keep it shiny and healthy. Plus, Dobermans are relatively clean dogs, so they don’t have that “doggy smell” that some breeds do. It’s a win-win for both of us!

Health and Wellness

Like all breeds, Dobermans have some health considerations, but regular vet check-ups and a balanced diet keep Atlas in top shape. Routine vaccinations and an active lifestyle ensure he stays happy and healthy, always ready for the next adventure.

In Conclusion: Why Dobermans Rock

So, if you’re considering bringing a Doberman into your life, get ready for a loyal, intelligent, and affectionate companion who’ll turn every day into an adventure. Atlas has filled my life with joy and energy, and I wouldn’t trade him for anything. From his playful antics to his gentle cuddles, he’s a constant reminder of why Dobermans are such an amazing breed. Whether you’re seeking a devoted friend or a dynamic workout buddy, a Doberman like Atlas might just be your perfect match!

Until next time, happy dog parenting! 🐾💕

Posted in Updates

Whether it be the beginning or the end

The month of march has passed me by so quickly that I believe it moved faster than the super hero some people know by the name of Flash. I was able to experience some moments of frozen time during my spring break, yet those moments never lasted long enough.

This spring break gave me a chance to start a cleanse in the household that I have called home for as long as I’ve lived on this earth. We all have some things that we hold onto because we don’t want to let go of the memory or the connection we feel with the object since it was given to us by a person who may not be with us on this earth any longer. I understand the desire to hold onto the intangible with a tangible object, but it is a freeing feeling when one decides to release the hold and allow the object(s) to move on, along with our hearts.

During said break, I went through the interviewing process for finding a job. The whole week I was a ball of nerves; just shaking a little bit more as the interview date got closer. With the support from friends and family, I was able to go into the interview with confidence. As I started conversing with my interviewers, my body began to relax and I felt at ease with the people whom I (at the time, not knowing) would hope to become my co-workers. I am happy to say that I was offered a job position with the company, by the name of Home Sweet Home Pet Care.  I’m extremely excited to work with such a great team, and help build the company.

On another note, my capstone (senior) project is coming along… slowly, but surely. These upcoming days are numbered though and now it’s crunch time. I’ve been experimenting with multiple different cameras, and hopefully in the end I will come out with beautiful pictures of all the six dogs who I am now focusing on for the final product. Here is a picture of Clyde. He is currently my favorite dog at All Breed Rescue. I’m glad I have been able to work with such a wonderful group of staff to help me bring awareness to the shelter and the dogs that reside there through my project.

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With my college graduation coming up soon, I am counting down the days where my life at Champlain College is coming to a close. I’ve stayed loyal these past four years to my college that I chose years ago. Everyone experiences ups and down, but I do not regret my decision as I do not regret my decision on where I am moving forward with my life post-graduation. It will be hard to let go of the ability to just walk next door to my friends in my apartment building, to let go the access of my best friend being no more than 10 minutes away from where I live, and to move on from the community I have learned to love. There are many different things I am letting go of when leaving college, but whether it be the beginning or the end I will learn to adapt and live in my new environment. I will learn to love the transition in my life.

With all the changes coming up soon, the scenery may change, but my heart will not. Some things, like activities I love, and people whom I cherish deeply, I will not give up on. I won’t give up my dreams. Don’t give up on yours.

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Posted in Updates

February BirchBox

Hello! Hello! Hello! I haven’t really written anything about the monthly subscription box I get every month called, BirchBox. It’s only $10 a month [including shipping], and you get about five sample size products. Using the descriptions provided by BirchBox, I will explain what each item I got in this month’s box. First, here is on the front of the informational card included in every box. A sweet little message to go with this month’s theme.

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Here are a couple pictures of what the outside looks like for this month’s BirchBox:

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The first product I’m going to show you is called, beautyblender. It is a “Pro-favorite sponge for smooth, natural-finish foundation (plus cleanser to keep it clean).” I plan to give this product to my friend because she loves them, and also to get the word out about BirchBox.

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The second product I’m going to show you is called, Juice Beauty. It is a blemish clearing cleanser. It’s “Made with organic botanicals, this hydrating wash declogs pores and brightens skin.” I’m super excited to use this. Last semester of college can be stressful, and the stress brings the nasty look of “exhausted” to the face.

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The third product I’m going to show you is called, theBalm cosmetics. It is a Read My Lips Lip Gloss – BAM! It’s “Fortified with antioxidant-rich ginseng, this gloss imparts rich color and loads of shine.” I am in LOVE with this product. I started using it immediately! Not many colors look good on my lips, but this color is perfect. It gives my lips just the right amount of shine and color to make my lips pop!

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 The fourth product I’m going to show you is called, Gilchrist & Soames. It is a Spa Therapy Body Wash. It’s “Infused with marine extracts, this gentle wash leaves skin hydrated and freshly scented.” I am glad this product came in my box because it’s following my new change towards beachy type products that I have started using. The smell is very calming.

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The fifth, and final, product I’m going to show you is called, BeeKind. It is a conditioner. “This gentle formula, made with honey and organic calendula, softens hair and ups shine.” I recently just bought conditioner, so as soon as I run out I plan to try this product. Everyone could always use an extra boost of softness and shine. It has a “fresh lemon and verbena scent!”

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 I hope you enjoyed your journey in exploring this month’s BirchBox. This box can be for both men and women. Hopefully you will check them out! 

 

*All descriptions are credited to BirchBox

 

Posted in Updates

Back on the ice!

I know that in my lifetime, so far, I have only been on an ice rink a couple times, literally only a couple. My past two experiences left me with a sour taste in my mouth. This time around I had support from my best friend and her residents [she is a Resident Assistant at my college], who gave me some confidence that ice skating can be fun, even if you’re not really good at it.

I was amazed at myself that I didn’t fall once. Most credit goes to my best friend for holding my hand as we went around the rink. Without her I would have fallen a bunch of times. We both promised we would only laugh a little at each other if either of us fell. Once “free skate” was over, we pulled our sore feet out of our skates, enjoyed some delicious hot chocolate, and decided we would like to make ice skating a regular activity we do together. It’s such a workout, but fun!

What is an activity or experience that you were unsure of at first and then it turned out great fun? Please share! I’d love to hear your stories 🙂

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Posted in Updates

The Mysteries of Winter Break Revealed

Hello! I have been on break and wanted to share pictures that would help tell an overview of what happened while I was “missing.” I will admit that I splurged a great amount when it came to eating out instead of cooking. There were visits to Bamboo Garden (Chinese restaurant), Dave & Busters, multiple visits to Panera, a couple visits to Chili’s, Olive Garden, Denny’s, and the Cheesecake Factory.

The orange “flower” was actually a fancy way of incorporating carrots with my sesame beef meal that I thoroughly enjoyed while having a meal by myself to indulge in my passion for reading. If you don’t know about the author Johanna Lindsey, you should look her up! Something else that’s new was my experience at Dave & Busters. My “group” from high school (me & three other girls) went there for some drinks, delicious food [I had the Samuel Adams, pretzel bites with varies dipping sauces, but the cheese dip was the best, and magnificent baked mac n’ cheese that had garlic bread on top and chicken & bacon cooked within], and we played a bunch of arcade games. I won over 900 tickets! Woo! They even had the massive Fruit Ninja game that I absolutely love.

My first Panera visit was during my wait for my car to be finished in the shop. Have to get that annual maintenance done eventually. Not only did I indulge in some food, but I went a tiny bit crazy in buying clothes and DVDs. The second time I visited the wonderful Panera, I was actually on a date. Not sure if a second date will occur… But my experiences at Chili’s were much better, surprisingly. My aunt came to visit and my mother and I treated her to a meal out. They have tablets at every table now so you can play games, order desserts, and even pay your bill! The second times I went there was with a childhood friend, and that was the third time I saw her in one week! That’s amazing because we never get to see each other anymore.

Going with the flow of family, we had a family dinner at Olive Garden. That delectable chocolate cake you see in the slideshow was from there. So tasty and rich! My mother and I squeezed in a trip to Denny’s and that is where I was able to enjoy the wonderful red velvet cake milkshake. Last, but not least, we were able to make a visit to The Cheesecake Factory. It’s one of my favorite places to eat, but you have to time your visit just right otherwise you’ll be stuck waiting (both for a table and for relatively decent service).

Moving away from food, my paper whites have bloomed beautifully. They are so delicate. I have jumped on board with the owl theme my mother created for my 21st birthday. Who gives a Hoot?! Almost all my christmas presents were owl themed. Christmas cards were sent, and the family christmas reunion was better this year, than last. My father brought me along on adventures to some matches, which I played photographer again. Can you find my dad in the picture? Look on the left side of my head 😉

The sculptures were my final project for the sculpture class that I thought was going to murder me. [Skeleton cowboy, skeleton puppy with his chicken wing, and a giant penguin]

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Posted in Updates

Mocking Jay Movie Premiere

Yesterday I was honored to attend a private screening of Mocking Jay Part 1 the day before it came out. It was a wonderful day early birthday present to myself. My dear friend, and co-worker, Maggie was my partner in crime for this adventure. I’m super thankful I was able to make such memories and be surrounded by so many Champlain College students for a fun event.

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Posted in Dumpster Dive

Beauty in Picture Form

I just wanted to share some images with you of people who have made a positive difference in my life, and a clip of Manny the Frenchie, who makes me smile with everything he does.

My best friend Darien Marshall who makes my day via Snapchat convos
My best friend Darien Marshall who makes my day via Snapchat convos

My boyfriend & I goofing off in our free time
Deane & I goofing off in our free time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Val, the lunch lady, on her last day
Val, the lunch lady, on her last day