How Paws-itive Experience Has Changed My Life

After adopting my dog, Sugar, in March, I knew that I needed to be trained on how to raise her. I wanted to be sure that I had a dog that was good around people, other dogs, and could handle children running up to her. I didn't want a dog who would bite, jump, growl, or be aggressive in any way. While I was lucky in adopting a dog who had a naturally kind demeanor, I still knew that without training, she wouldn't feel (or be) safe.

Everyone, I mean, EVERYONE that had a dog told me about a place called Paws-itive Experience Pet Services a few towns away. They said that the shop, the training, and all of the experts, were amazing. People seriously raved. I googled the website, got the number and called. Jane, a woman with an amazing British accent, gave me all of the information I needed for basic training, and I also got information about private training.

Sugar on my son Johnny's lap

I had a trainer from Paws-itive come to the house and evaluate Sugar, and the way that my son and I dealt with her. There were some things she was afraid to do, and she wasn't housebroken, so the trainer, Tina, came in and helped us with all that. She really got me started and put my mind at ease. 

I also signed us up for Basic Obedience 1, to teach Sugar the basics. In the time between when the trainer came and the first Basic Obedience class, I was invited to call with any question I had about Sugar. Jane always had answers for me, and put my mind at ease. Sugar didn't want to go in the crate, for example, and I had to leave the house. So I called Jane. Things like that. She was amazing. When I finally got to meet her, and put a face to her voice, I was elated.

Anyhow, the basic obedience program is behavior training. We humans are trained how to behave, and our behavior fosters good behavior in our dogs. We must be consistent, confidence, and firm. The word "no" isn't used in training, neither is yelling. Commands are soft and firm. 

John, the trainer who taught our Basic Obedience classes, is so good at what he does, that if participants actually do what he teaches (consistently), I cannot imagine a dog not learning. He taught us so much that we are returning for Basic Obedience 2, then 3, then their Out and About class, and their therapy dog class. Basically, we are taking as much training as we can get!

I learned that confidence and boundaries are important, and when I know what needs to be done and I do it with confidence, my dog will follow. I learned that dogs can sense the energy people send out (they sense fear, love, security). Oh, and she LOVES other dogs. Many days a week, I drop her at doggie day care (at Paws-itive) even though I don't need to have someone watch her. I do it because she loves it, she thrives on interacting freely with other dogs. The dogs always have a human in the play space with them -- all the humans there are fabulously kind and great with dogs, which makes me very happy -- and all the doggies maintain good social behavior. Sugar runs to the building, up the stairs, and into the door for both day care and behavior classes. She loves it there (let's face it, we all do). Everyone is so super nice, and they offer lots of great services for our dogs (even a do-it-yourself doggie bath). 

Paws-itive has changed the way that I view dogs, my relationship to them, and the understanding of my responsibilities as a doggie mom. Even more, though, I have learned the many ways I can enrich my dog's life so that she feels safe, has fun, and thrives. 

As she lays on her bed next to me, I am thankful for the four hours she spent playing at Paws-itive today, and I look forward to her returning. Knowing that on rainy days and in cold winter weather (or hot summer weather), she has a place to play and get exercise, makes me very happy.

If you haven't experienced Paws-itive yet, SERIOUSLY call them right now. They are a life-changing experience.

Paws-itive Experience is located at 114 Beach Street Building #5, 2nd Floor
Rockaway, NJ 07866. 973-625-2495

The Next Five Years

ISBN: 978-0-307-71977-5

 

While going through photos on Instagram, @ellymae had a photo of a 5 year project she was starting. It's this book called Q&A a day. Each day, you answer one question about you that is true for that day. Pages start at January 1, but you can start any day. There are five lines that are marked 20__ per date page (ie: April 12) and you write the current year next to them. So 20 __ will start at 2012 and end at 2016, if you start this year.

Mine came in the mail yesterday, in the midst of a huge emotional upheaval. I decided to wait to start the book until today, because yesterday I wasn't in a place to do much of anything. I'm not much better today, but the sun is out and, frankly, it's up to me to pull myself up by my  bootstraps, out of my own sadness.  Today I filled in May 12, then realized it was only March, so I went to March 12, then realized it was actually April. Long week...

Today's page

I filled in April 12, and I'm committing to doing a page a day. It's only four lines and I think that looking back at what has (and hasn't) changed as life passes, is a good thing. Available on bn.com, but cheaper on amazon.com. 

Make a five year commitment to yourself. It's the one thing you know that you are able to commit to for sure... unless, of course, you die :)

Not a bad quote for a cover page.

Get Out Your Pens... (doctors, dentists, vets, and a car doctor)

Over the past two years, I've had reason to find new doctors, and a new dentist. I searched far and wide to find providers that were both capable and sympathetic. Doctors have a tendency to make me anxious, so I always need to have super compassionate doctors. At the same time, my providers must also be very good at what they do, and be conservative in their approach. I want doctors who will do the least amount of procedures, prescribe medicine only when necessary, but who will also do what it takes to get me diagnosed, treated, and cured. I will drive great distances, when necessary, to see them.

I've been wanting to share my list with you all, but I've been so busy making candles that I haven't had much time. A friend, though, shared that her relative (who is in her 20s) was just diagnosed with colon cancer, and that was as good a reason as any to start this list.

Here's my list of doctors and dentist/specialists that I adore! If you want to know why I went to a specific doctor, or have a problem you need addressed, feel free to email me privately at tiffanypalisi@gmail.com.

Dentist (children and adults)
Dr. Kimberly Soares, Mountain Lakes
973-263-1919


Periodontist
She did a crown lenghtening procedure on me that seemed effortless, and was pain (and stress) free. If you ever need a periodontist, a tooth pulled, an implant, etc., this is the periodontist for the job.
Dr. Michele Dimaira, Montville
973-276-7926


Pediatrician
Love, love, love our pediatrian's office. He knows what he's doing, doesn't over medicate, but definitely medicates when necessary. (Anti-vax people can contact me with questions.)
Dr. DeLorenzo, West Caldwell
973-226-4439


Gynocologist/Obstetrician
I got many referrals, and this doc is hand's down, the best. I trust him with my life.
Dr. Russell Hoffman, Summit
908-273-3335

Cardiologist
Dr. Joanne Martin, Morristown
973-540-1240

Therapist
The best!
Megan Messina, LPC, Morristown
973-715-5290

Proctologist
She's sweet, smart, and a woman (making it a little less embarrassing)
Dr. Julie Lorber, Summit
908-273-2886

Dermatologist
She works at Sloane Kettering, so she can spot skin cancer a mile away. For general skin issues, try Dr. Almeida in Parsippany. For skin screenings, and possible skin cancers, see:
Dr. Elizabeth Quigley, Basking Ridge
908-542-3400

Acupuncturist
Susannah Pitman, Boonton
973-257-8924

Endocrinologist 
Dr. Chon
973-267-9099

Car Doctors (okay, mechanics, but I really wanted to include them on this list)
Honest, good prices, kind people and they will fix any problem your car may have! I only take my car to Mt. Lakes Motors!
Mountain Lakes Motors, Mountain Lakes
973-334-4992


Veterinary Doctor
I love Dr. Rao and her entire office staff, and so does my dog, Sugar
Park View Veterinary Hospital, Boonton
973-263-5600

Thank God for Mountain Lakes Motors

I live in a small town called Mountain Lakes. There's literally one gift shop, one restaurant, then a  restaurant/market, a gym, a train store, builders and small offices, a library, and a post office.  There's a highway with a couple spots, but I don't really count the highway as part of town (though I do love Mountain Lakes Car Wash and Mountain Lakes Bagels). Then, there is Mountain Lakes Motors.

When I first visited this town, Mountain Lakes Motors was a place I wanted to visit. The building is an old stone building that really looks like an original Mountain Lakes building (it must be). Pudding stone and all. I knew I'd want to go there to get my oil changes, etc. just to be in the building. As a former Jiffy Lube enthusiast, this is a big deal). After being a client for 7 years now, I can tell you that it is my favorite place in Mountain Lakes.

A car servicing shop? Yes.

Here's why. Every time I have an issue with my car, they take care of it quickly and for a fair, competitive price. Oil changes are high quality, and when I go, they will tell me if they notice something (like I may need new tires in 6 months). They know me, they know my car, and pay attention. And I know that when they say work needs to be done, it's because it does. They care about the work that they do on our cars.

Yesterday, my neighbor noticed that my tire was near flat (it had 10 lbs. of air in it, and it takes 35). I was heading out to work, and called to see if they could just fill my tire up with air so that I could get to work. When I brought it over, they looked at it immediately, and saw a screw in my tire. While it may have stayed put, Tim (one of the three mechanics at MLM) offered to put on my spare tire for me, so that I could safely drive around without worry.

The whole thing took 10 minutes.

Being able to trust a mechanic is as important as being able to trust your doctor. Knowing that they do solid work, and aren't trying to make me spend money that I don't need to spend, is really amazing. Having the comfort of knowing that I can call because my tire is flat, and they can take care of my car right away so that I (and my family and passengers) am safe is even better.

If you live anywhere near the area (Boonton, Denville, Parsippany, Montville, Rockaway), and especially if you live in Mountain Lakes, you should definitely take your car to Mountain Lakes Motors. You will be so happy you did.

Find them on Facebook by clicking here: Mountain Lakes Motors.

Paleo Zone - Day 1

I am modifying the Paleo diet by way of what is called the Paleo Zone. It's pretty much the Paleo diet, but allows for dairy.

My first challenge was finding food that I could eat at Liberty Science Center's cafeteria. It wasn't easy, and I failed the Paleo part, but still managed to eat something healthy. I got grilled chicken with lettuce on a wrap, so the wrap part is the failure. Still, I did better than I'd hoped.

Tonight, I am having egg whites and spinach for dinner... strawberries for dessert. My son's having the same, and there is an amazing brand new tub of caramel swirl ice cream in the fridge that he will be able to indulge in for dessert. Will I miss it? Hardly. I am very focused on getting my life back on track, so if it means no sugar (no ice cream), that's a small sacrifice.

Anyhow, I'll be making Sugar Cookie & Strawberry Shortcake candles all night so at least I will get to smell something fabulous!

From the Heart (my heart, literally), Why We Are What We Eat

I just got back from an appointment with my cardiologist. I will be retuning again shortly, to do a stress test, so that I can be cleared for exercise. Having mitral valve prolapse, it's important that I have my heart checked regularly. My cholesterol is normal, and my blood pressure is a healthy 110/70. But there's the scale and a magical number that should grace the scale, but it didn't. Er...

Apparently, someone (my two thumbs pointing back at me) needs to get back in shape.

The last time I saw my cardiologist, back in 2005, I was 20 lbs. lighter than I am now. A size 2, who power lifted and spent two hours a day at the gym. I ate clean (read = Oxygen magazine clean), no added fats, dairy, carbs... veggie slices (fake cheese) in Pepper Jack flavor was the closest I got to egg whites with cheese. Dessert was a pint of strawberries with wheat germ and a swirl of Hershey's chocolate syrup. Decadent, to me, at the time.

That's me, the tan one in the swirly dress. Power lifting size 2. I want that back.

Now, I can't blame this added weight on having been preggers or anything, because by 2005 I had already been a mom for a handful of years. Thin came post-pregnancy. Here's what happened ...


I started spending less time at the gym. My life was fuller, my responsibilities greater, and I rested on the fact that I was in such great shape. I thought I could just level down to maintaining (which I could have, had I not started... eating cheese burgers and fries on a thrice weekly basis. Oh, and having two or three Stellas with that meal). I still worked out, less though, and maybe I gained 5 lbs. I wasn't as cut up as I'd been, nor was I spending as much time at the gym, but still, I was only a size (at that point) 4. Tiny.

First weight gain, 2006 and size 4 (blurry old cell pic). I remember taking this photo to remind myself that i was getting fat. Oh, how i'd love to look like this again.

Slowly, my gym time cut back less and less. Thirty minutes of cardio. Twenty minutes of lifting. Three times a week. Max. And my eating started getting worse.

Seven months later, I was a size 6. Okay, still not fat, but heavier than I was accustomed to being. My endocrinologist (I have Hashimoto's disease) told me to be careful. His concern wasn't that weight or size, but that it was climbing, which isn't good for your endocrine system. He asked me to restrict my diet and lose those 5 pounds. I restricted until the pounds came off, then ate them right back on.

I was bellydancing at an event, and remember thinking how fat I looked in this photo.

Summer passed, and I wore dresses and skirts the whole time. My bikini still fit, it wasn't pretty, but it fit.

I remember being in this bikini and seeing my belly (see it?) and knowing that I was no longer thin.

When autumn came, and I put on a pair of jeans, I could just get them buttoned (they used to be huge on me). 

This was the last time the size 6 actually fit with comfort. These were baggy two years before.

A year later, I had a condition that was being treated with steroids (Prednisone) so on went another 10 lbs. No more size 6. Ever since then, I've been fighting with those pounds. Now, straining in a size 8, I've had two doctors tell me to lose the weight. My cardiologist said it's not about appearances or fitting into a certain size jeans. It's because my heart doesn't want to do all the work of lugging those extra pounds around.

I cannot imagine what more I need to hear before it sinks in.

I have to stick to my good habits (the Greek salad with grilled chicken at the Denville Diner, the egg white omelets packed with veggies), and ditch the bad ones. My cardiologist is a woman who went through menopause and is a little older than I am, and she's thin. I asked her how she maintained her weight through it all and she said, point blank, she just doesn't eat the way she used to. She has to eat less.

Wish me luck. Now the only day I can have something fattening is FKF. No fried foods, grilled cheese, bread (except PB&J on wheat), bagels, pastas, cheese (except feta, goat, and the occasionally mozzarella on a slice (not three) of pizza.

And so it begins...

Yes, I Still Send Cards.

"Yes, I still send cards" is on a pin I purchased from a card company called La Familia Green. It's one of the best pins I've ever seen, so I bought a bunch of them. Letter writing is a dying practice, and I am determined to at least try to bring it back!

***

Today is Make or Mail Monday. Now if you know me, you know that I am a big proponent of writing and sending mail via the United States Postal Service.

I make my own cards sometimes, however bad they may be. Usually, though, I buy handmade cards or postcards and keep them in my desk drawer (the desk was once my grandfather's) to save for when the spirit moves me. Today is one of those days.

I am writing a letter to a friend who lives in Florida, who I haven't seen in a few years. Just writing to say hello and let her know I am thinking of her.

Might I inspire you to get in touch with an old friend today?

Exit 39, Denville card by my man, photographer Ward Vogt. Available on his etsy page.

Write a note or letter and mail it out today. It can be as simple as a writing a few words on a postcard, or as involved as making your very own card. You can go to your local, family owned shop, and buy a card, or send a postcard that shows your town. You can even just write on a piece of paper that you were going to recycle. Now you cannot mail it today, since it's a holiday, but you can put it in the mailbox to be picked up tomorrow...

Whenever I go on vacation, I buy a bunch of extra postcards that I don't plan on sending during my trip, and then mail them out to local friends just for fun. What's more fun than getting a postcard from Paris, with a postal stamp from NJ, sent by a neighbor?

Have fun with it. Write to someone who may need to hear your kind words. And if you haven't anyone you'd like to write to, go ahead and send me a postcard from the town that you live in. I'd love to receive it. Mail to Domestic Goddess, PO Box 243, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046.