FUNdraising is PAWsome!

Just when I thought nothing could be better than M.C.ing an event, I get to present to another school. Yesterday mom and I had the PAWmazing opportunity to present at South Oceanside school.

When I PAWed in, there were 500 Kindergarten to grade 6 students waiting for me. I barked out a big hello and did a happy dance for all of them. I love kids! We told them about the lessons I have learned, and can teach others, about kindness, friendship, patience and literacy. All the kids were absPAWlutely PAWtastic! They asked me questions, which I happily barked my answers to, and did their own happy dances. It was PAWsome!

Mom tells me the reason we were there was to help the school fundraise for their library. As a matter of fact, tomorrow we are going to be at Barnes & Noble in Oceanside on Vista Way. The store is going to donate a portion of the proceeds from the books sold to the school. Isn't that tail waggin' PAWtastic? Just thinking about it makes me want to do another happy dance............awww, that's better!

You know what makes these events the best experiences for me? It the moments where little girls approach us and say, "I love Toby. I want to do good stuff like he does for the world." That is Four PAWS down the most PAWtastic and tail wagging moment right there.

I can't wait to tell you about the fundraiser tomorrow!

The Importance of PAWpose

Mom and dad, Charmaine and Chris, often get asked if my behaviour has improved since I got a job. I can tell you from my PAWspective, it has made all the difference! When I first came to live with mom and dad it took me quite a while to get settled in. I would PAW around the house just trying to get familiar with my new home. There was also some uncertainty about it being my new FURever home. After all, I had just left two other homes, one that I really thought I would never leave, and then the foster home. I had to be sure it was FUR real. Of course, when I realized it was, I got VERY comfortable. But, that comfort brought anxiety too. Where was my place in this new home? What did they expect of me as their new FURiend? What could I do to help make their lives better? So, I started rearranging the furniture and reorganizing the closets. When I got bored of that and there was nothing else to do, I started my rounds and usually wound up locking myself in the bathroom somehow.

Have you ever felt like that? You find yourself in a situation and know that there should be something you can do but you can't figure out what it is. You feel almost lost. Mom and dad helped me find the solution to that. They got me a job! It always feels so PAWsome when I first walk into the hospital and everyone there knows me and says hello. I always say hello back, it's only PAWlite you know. When I am playing with the patients we are all so happy to be spending that time together. I miss them so much when I am away but, I have other jobs to do now too. Like PAWdographing books, personal appearances, greeting children and, of course, M.C.ing events. I'm not PAWfect, there are still days I feel restless and do silly things but, having a job has definitely helped me to be the dog I need to be!

And They're Off!

We left for California yesterday! I love road trips. I can always tell when we are going to be travelling. Char and Chris start pulling out the luggage and talking about what we will all need to "get through" the time we will be away. This trip is a tail wagging happy dance trip though! It's so warm in California and I might even get to try surfing with Ricochet again! If you don't already know, I'm a Chessie and we love water. So surfing is PAWfect for me. I love the feeling of the water as it sprays up around my paws on the board. It's a cool sport and it helps keep me cool too. Woof!

Another great thing about road trips is the car ride. There are always so many new things to see and people and FURiends to meet along the way. I always get so excited I just have to let out a bark, or two. Mom and dad always make me a nice cozy spot in the vehicle. My own safe travelling haven. I love mom and dad so much. They take such good care of me.

I will try to keep barking out updates to you along the way so that you know where we are and what we are doing. I can't wait to get there and visit all my FURiends!

Thank You for Attending

Saturday was PAWsome! I love M.C.ing events! I got to meet so many new people at the Fabulous @ 50 event. I also got to do some more PAWdographing, which I also love. I can't believe how long it took me to learn to do that. Now, I can do it in my sleep. See, we're not always chasing rabbits when we nap.

There was this PAWmazingly cute little girl there that kept coming back to visit me. She was just adorable and even gave me a small treat. Yumm! I really like that little girl. It's great to make new friends. Sometimes though, I like to just like to play games on friends we already know. I had a really funny moment with our Executive Concierge, Shannon. Chris had to leave and he asked her to be my handler for a little while. Not only has she never handled me before but she also had a cast on her right leg. Some people came by the table that wanted to see me so I started wagging my tail to let her know I wanted to visit. She got up and hopped out with me. I met my new friends and got tonnes of attention from them. Then Shannon told me to "come" and "down". I just stood and looked at her. Of course, I know what that means but, she's not my regular handler. Can't have everybody thinking that just anyone can tell me what to do. She loves our furry FURiends though so she just laughed a bit and said "down" again. I sat down and looked up at her. She just laughed again and told me she knew I would lie down on my own. That took all the fun out of it so I just lied down and waited for dad to come back. We can resist change as long as we are open to finding common ground with others and being part of the solution. It also helps to know when it's time to just get over it and let it go.

Of course, the highlight of the day was being on stage with Charmaine and helping to introduce the afternoon activities and speaker line up. I barked a big hello to everyone there, and there were a lot of people there! My tail was wagging so fast at all the applause we got. It was a very happy day for me. I sure hope I get to do that again soon!

Rent me a Tux!

I have been doing a happy dance all day just thinking about tomorrow! Why? Because it is my very first time M.C.ing and event!! Okay, I'm actually the co-host but it's still a suPAW PAWsome opportunity for me.

When I first heard I didn't know how to respond. Should I bark out my excitement and approval? Should I get my Kong and play to get out my excited energy? Maybe I should bark out to mom and ask her to take me to get my tux! I decided against the last option because I already have a tail. I high PAWed mom and barked my approval like crazy. When a dog is happy, he just has to let it out!

Tonight will be very sPAWcial for me and mom. Tonight will be the first time that she and I will meet to go over our notes for the event tomorrow. We have to make sure we know what say and when. We want the Fabulous @ 50 event to be PAWsome so we can't miss our cues.

I'll tell you how it went in my post on Monday. I might even have pictures!

Workout Assistance

I love doggy treadmills! They are the most PAWsome way to get my exercise when the weather gets too cold for Chris and Charmaine to be outside for too long.

I go to K9 Awareness for my treadmill time. A big high PAW for Kaytie Stack! Thanks to her help I have a job, a purpose, and a treadmill. Do you use a treadmill at your gym? I love the feeling of freedom when I'm running. Best of all, I don't get in trouble for going too far away from my PAWrents because I'm not really going anywhere. It still makes me feel so good just to be moving though. Since there is a doggy daycare there too, I also get to meet so many new FURiends whenever I visit. There are also lots of less furry friends for Chris and Charmaine to visit with while they wait for me to finish my run.

Everyone, furry or not, needs to get exercise. It helps keep our minds focused and our bodies healthy. Plus, it may help get rid of the extra energy it takes to empty a closet or tip over furniture...

Happy Dance!

I am so PAWcited! Five lucky people won copies of my Toby The Pet Therapy Dog and His Hospital Friends from the Fido Friendly Magazine!

We love Fido Friendly Magazine. It is a PAWsome PAWbilcation for pet lovers, pet owners, and pet PAWrents. All of us furry creatures! You can check it out for yourself right here http://www.fidofriendly.com/contests/sin-one-of-five-books-for-back-to-school-time-from-charmaine-hammond

I'm afraid this blog post isn't going to be too long. I'm too busy doing my happy dance for the five winners. It's hard to type and dance at the same time!

Congratulations to the five book winners! I hope you PAWsitvely love it!

The Power of Play

As a dog, I have a very interesting view sometimes. Often, when we get somewhere, Chris will ask me to lie down beside him. At that time all I can see are people's feet rushing by. It makes me wonder, do those people ever take time to play?

As you know, I love my Kong! I think it is the most PAWsome thing, even better than puppies. Just the thought of it gets my tail wagging. I can't wait to start tossing it around and chewing on it trying to get that yummy treat out to enjoy. Nothing brings more satisfaction than the moment when I can crunch down that tasty morsel. But, getting to that point is so much fun! I get so focused on getting my prize out of that little piece of rubber. My brain must be completely alert to be that focused but I don't even notice I'm doing something good for my body. I just want to have fun and get my goody! When Wednesday comes and it's time to go to work, my focus is steady and unwavering. The people I meet at the hospital are PAWmazing and I have no trouble keeping focused on them. Being with them gives me the warm furries, kind of like my Kong does.

Do you take time to play? It seems funny to me that so few of my two legged FURiends do, especially when there are so many benefits to playing. You can't work all the time. Take some time to have some fun too!

It Takes Time

I love living at the lake! The only bad thing about it is that the storms are way more intense than in the city. The thunderstorms and lightening strikes are PAWsitively frightening. You see, I am terrified of loud noises. Thunder and firecrackers are the worst. I anxiously wander around the house nudging anything in my path (lamps, chairs, and items on coffee tables).

I am fortunate though. Char and Chris give me lots of SuPAWt while I do my pacing. They have discovered that they can sometimes distract me with games like hide and seek with my toys. It doesn't always work though. If my toys don't get my attention then they turn on music and try to mask the noise of the storm for me.

We all have things that make us uncomfortable. We can't always avoid those things, sometimes we just have to face them. Usually, we need the help and suPAWt of our FURiends to face our fears. Know what? Now that Chris and Char have been helping me face my fear of storms I have gotten better at coping with them. I have come a long way over the years...progress takes time, PAWtience, and accepting help

Adoption is PAWsome!

A few days ago I heard someone say that it is Pet Adoption Month in America. I know we live in Canada but it still makes me suPAW sad to think of all my FURiends stuck in cages with no one to love them. Fortunately, I was adopted from an organization that uses foster homes, NASAP. There are just so many displaced FURiends that not every adoption agency can use foster homes.

I remember what it was like when I first got to my foster home. I was really confused and didn't feel like myself at all. I don't even think I barked for a long time. I missed my people. The foster family was really nice to me but they weren't the family that I knew. I couldn't wait to go home again and have this whole situation explained. Of course, I had no idea that home was with Christopher and Charmaine, at that time I just wanted what was familiar again. But, when Chris and Charmaine came to see me I was so surPAWsed at how much I liked to be with them. It still took me a few months to dig up my true self but, I felt much better being at home with them right from the start.

I wonder what it is like for the FURiends that don't get to go to foster homes? If I was as scared and confused as I was, they must be absolutely PAWtrified! I feel suPAW sad for them.

If you or your family has been thinking about getting a FURiend for your home, please consider adopting. Help give good forever homes to to them. After all, many of us need more than love after our exPAWriences.

Another Bounce Forward Adventure

Yesterday afternoon was so PAWmazing! Mom, Charmaine, left early so I thought that dad, Chris, and I were going to spend the afternoon together at home. But, the next thing I knew we were in the car heading to Edmonton! I love car rides. There are so many things to bark at along the road. It wasn't long before we reached our destination, The Westin Hotel in downtown Edmonton. I was so excited for this new adventure! I was wagging my tail so fast and hard my hind legs could barely keep me grounded. Of course, I greeted everyone I could on our way into the hotel. People like it when you take the time to say hello. Why were we here though?

Imagine my surPAWs when we walked into a big room and there was mom and a whole bunch of people I didn't know yet! Mom was talking about Bouncing Forward and relieving stress and stuff. I don't know what the big deal is, doesn't anyone else play with Kongs? Oh well, we all have a different bark. There was also this big comfy pillow just for me! It was so big and soft. Dad sat right next to it so that I could snuggle in.

After mom was done talking I got to PAWdograph some books. I love PAWdographing! I also love to be photographed, which is what happens a lot when I PAWdograph. I had to bark my approval, what a perfect way to finish the afternoon.

So, that's what happened yesterday afternoon. I hope everyone else had as much fun as I did!

What’s at the end of your rainbow?

After a storm, a rainbow often follows--- what rainbows have you had after a stormy time? Even in my almost ten years of life, I have had some PAWtastic rainbows at the end of storms.
Who knew that my toilet lid breaking episodes, furniture rearranging and thunder storm inspired house damage would result in me being a volunteer, a Pet Therapy Dog? This is definitely one of the rainbows for me, volunteering at the hospital. I meet a lot of people and I’d say many folks focus on the storms and not the rainbows.

This week I challenge you to look for the rainbows that follow the stormy times, and if you didn’t have a stormy time this week, perhaps share that perspective with someone who is dealing with their own storms.

Unit next week, have a PAWsitive Week!

PS Did I mention my new children’s book Toby The Pet Therapy Dog and His Hospital Friends is hot off the press? You can grab your copy by ordering from chris.alcock@hammondgroup.biz if you want a signed copy, or from Amazon or Barnes & Noble websites!

What brings you comfort?

Charmaine is always talking about bouncing forward and being resilient. In one of her presentations, she asked the audience this question: “What brings you comfort?”
My mind was racing--- playing fetch, making people smile, treats, and cuddling up to a friend or stuffed animal.

I am terrified of loud noises- trains, sirens, saws, garbage trucks, firecrackers, and thunder (to name a few). We all have things that we fear, or stretch us out of our comfort zone. When you know what brings you healthy comfort you can reach for it in times that cause fear and discomfort.

One day I hope to have stuffed Toby’s so that I can deliver them to children in hospitals and group homes everywhere.

Reach for the Stars!

When we were in California in April for our book tour, Christopher researched where Lassie’s star is located on Hollywood Blvd. It was PAWsome, I got my photo taken with Lassie’s star!

Out of the corner of my eye, something caught my attention---- a star without a name--- yet!

There I was on HollyWOOF Blvd and I claimed my star. One day it will say “TOBY”

Charmaine always talks about having a vision, being able to see your dreams in your mind before they even come true. So I took her advice. Christopher took my photo with my star on HollyWOOF Blvd. Now I am one step closer to my dream coming true.

Sometimes our dreams are not far out of reach, this star was right beside Lassie’s, within close reach. What are you doing today to reach for your star--- for your dreams?

PAWsome News!

My new book for children, Toby The Pet Therapy Dog- and his hospital friends is here! Woof! Woof! The beautiful illustrations are done by Charmaine’s best friend, Rose Anne Prevec! They have been friends since they were in grade one. This is the first book in a series for children.

Here’s what the book is about:
“Toby is a big, brown, happy dog. Every week, his owner, Miss Charmaine takes him to visit and comfort children who are in the hospital. Follow Toby the therapy dog for a day, and see how he makes friends with the children, helps make them happy and forget that they are sick and away from home. Based on the true story and movie On Toby’s Terms.”

You can find out more on Amazon: http://www.amazon.ca/Toby-Pet-Therapy-Hospital-Friends/dp/0983604509/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1311718221&sr=8-1

It is our mission to get these books into children’s hospitals around the world to spread some joy and smiles. In our upcoming blog we’ll tell you how you can get involved in my mission! We hope you will join us.

Many Ways to Say You are PAWsome!

In the February 2009 Edmonton Woman Magazine, there was an article showing the many ways to say “I Love You”. Here are a few:

Chinese (Mandarin) Wo ai ni
Cree Kisakihitin
French- Je t’aime and Je t’adore
Hawaiian- Aloha Au la oe

And to add my own, Toby: You are PAWsome!

Leaving Your Mark On The World

During my book tours, public appearances and events, I have met the most PAWsome people. I have enjoyed listening to Charmaine and Christopher talk to folks about their pets, life changing moments and PAWsitive things people are doing to create their legacy and make a difference in the world.

When we present to schools (and we have presented to more than 6,700 students this year), which I LOVE, we always invite the students to join me on the Toby Mission- to make our world a kinder, happier place. We have had more than 5,000 students supPAWt me on this mission and many students have later told us how they PAWed Kindness Forward to others. These students are leaving their mark on the world.

I also met a group of elementary school aged students at the school Charmaine’s mom works at, who had written some beautiful stories, and the school published the book. It was an honour to present to this talented group of students.

Another favorite is Tommy, a grade two student in Oceanside who inspired Charmaine to write another book. Get this, he is in grade two, and he has written a book (and illustrated it), and has a dream to make his book a movie. I can’t wait till I get to read Tommy’s book, and watch his movie. This youngster will make it happen, I know it!

Check out my video leaving my mark on the world…. A PAWdograph in my books.
http://www.youtube.com/user/Ontobysterms?blend=4&ob=5#p/a/f/1/mpdUEF_sNPU

So today, I challenge you to think about how you can leave your mark on the world?

Toby’s Bounce Forward Contest

Next Furry Hollywood star teams up with international speaker and professional event planner for the Bounce Forward Contest

My Pet Parent, Charmaine Hammond, professional speaker, and bestselling author of the popular book “On Toby’s Terms”, and Shannon Berry of Capital Concierge have joined together to bring an innovative, and informative event to a local company, organization, small business, or corporate team up to 100 people.

The winner gets an amazing Bounce Forward Presentation, at no cost. How PAWsome is that?

On October 17, 2011 at 1:00 P.M.-4:00 P.M. Charmaine and Shannon will be gathering with the winners at the Westin Hotel Edmonton, in the Strathcona Room to present BOUNCE FORWARD-Building Resilience in the Workplace. Charmaine will be the keynote speaker while Capital Concierge takes care of all the event details. And me, the superstar dog, and star of On Toby’s Terms will be making a special private appearance at the event.

There will be swag bags and a PAWdographing session with the subject of Charmaine’s book and soon to be major motion picture, and me, Toby the Chesapeake Bay Retriever!

To enter the contest, “Like” Hammond International Inc, On Toby’s Terms, and Capital Concierge on Facebook.

Deadline for entries is September 19, 2011.
This event has attracted sponsors that include: The Westin Hotel Edmonton, Safety Ahead Inc., Clutter Helper, Pretty Mama Inc., and Junior Figureido Photography.


Charmaine Hammond Shannon Berry
Hammond International Inc. Capital Concierge
charmaine.hammond@hammondgroup.biz info@capconcierge.ca
www.hammondgroup.biz www.capconcierge.ca
780.464.3828 780.278.5950

You Deserve A Break Today

Being a media hound (pardon the pun), a volunteer, and the star of a book (and soon to be movie star) can get tiring, even though it is a ton of fun.

The fact that I LOVE what I do and get to meet the most PAWmazing people is a bonus, and I think keeps me young.
Here are a few tips on how I keep myself energized and PAWsitive:
• Get outside and play (everyday)

• Set realistic expectations

• Surround yourself with PAWsitive people (and furry friends)

• Be like a dog with a bone and hang on tight to what (and who) are important to you


• And, be gentle to yourself, and Take A Break Every Now and Then (just like me catching some ZZZZ’s after a book signing event)

You CAN Teach An Old Dog A New Trick

I bark to disagree with the old saying “You can’t teach an old dog a new trick”.

In April 2011, I had my first ever surf board lesson! It was PAWsome. While I was fairly distracted by the many toys, birds, and dogs on Dog Beach (Del Mar, California), I got focused and rode the wave.

Just goes to show you that you can teach an old dog a new trick!

Check me out in my video on You Tube during my shining moments and surf lesson.
http://www.youtube.com/user/Ontobysterms?blend=4&ob=5

An interview with Ken from Trusted Pet Partners

It is so interesting how PAWsitive connections are formed, friendships are built and how small the world really is. Charmaine was introduced to Sharon from Trusted Pet Partners (Santa Barbara) by a colleague. When we were in California on our book tour, there was a huge Pet Expo in Orange County. Guess who Charmaine was able to meet? You got it—Sharon!

They hit it off right away and soon discovered they had much in common, especially when it came to their interest in animals and the incredible impact us furry friends have on people. She thought my story would be perfect for their radio show--- how PAWsome is that?

Recently we had the honour of being interviewed by Ken from Trusted Pet Partners. We so enjoyed the conversation, especially the thought provoking questions he asked. He really got at our story in a powerful way. It is always so interesting for me to hear what people take away from my story and my book On Toby’s Terms.

It’s my mission (yes--- I am a dog on a mission) to make the world a kinder place for animals and humans. I am seeing firsthand (or paw) how kindness can be multiplied. I also know that when people are kind to animals, they can extend that behaviour to people.

Thank you Trusted Pet Partners for helping me spread my PAWsitive message!
To learn more about Trusted Pet Partners, follow http://trustedpetpartners.com

To listen to our PAWtastic radio interview, click here http://trustedpetpartners.com/categories/35-behind-the-curtain/204-behind-the-curtain-tobys-tales-charmaine-hammond

We’re Number One! We’re Number One!

May 30, 2011

Well, thanks to the help and support of all my family, friends, and fans- we did it!

On May 17, 2011 On Toby’s Terms hit the best seller list on Amazon US and Canada. This was a very exciting day, not only because we the book became a best seller, but also because we are making a donation to one of our charities- SPCA.

We believe in pawing it forward to help others (people and animals) along the way.

Thank you for your support, sending in your testimonials about On Toby’s Terms, and for continuing to be a champion for me. Please know that it is making a PAWsitive Difference!!

Stories that leave pawprints on your heart

One of the best aspects of doing book signings and pawdographing events is the amazing people and furry friends I get to meet. We have heard so many great pet stories that I think I could bark a book.

A lovely couple told Charmaine and Chris a great story. They had two big dogs who were good escape artists. One day while the couple’s daughter was dog sitting, the pair escaped. Days went by and the searches and posters were not bringing their beloved furry friends home. The family started to think they would never see their dogs again. Meanwhile, unbeknown to the family, a caring couple had found the pair, 35 miles from the home they could not find their way back to. The family put an ad in the local newspaper. Somehow the local paper got taken by someone to the area where the dogs were. Eventually the dogs and family were re-united.

This story got me thinking of the importance of “home.” When Charmaine and Christopher adopted me, I was five years old. I had spent three months in foster care before going to my forever family. Home really is where the heart is.

My alarming (or de-alarming bark)

Well, Char and Chris thought they had seen it all with me. Me breaking toilet tank lids, figuring out how to put my seatbelt on but that was just the beginning, for bigger things yet to come.

On the weekend, my friend took me for a walk while Char and Chris set up the book for our book signing event. I was a happy dog, barking at life. I scared myself when I set off the car alarms as we walked by.

What will I get up to next? One thing’s for sure, I am giving Charmaine a lot of content in case she writes and OTT-2.

Help us make On Toby’s Terms a New York Times bestseller

What happens when the influence and support of many come together? It produces PAWsome results!

Meet our friend Teresa deGrosbois, she is one of the most PAWerful connectors I know! Teresa is a bestselling author, relationship marketing expert, a champion for others, and our friend!

When we announced that our goal was to have On Toby’s Terms become a bestselling book, you should see what happened. All Charmaine’s colleagues from the Evolutionary Business Council (which is headed up by Teresa) came on board 100% to support our efforts.

As you can imagine, this was a PAWsome experience, one that overwhelmed Charmaine with gratitude. Then, Teresa wrote this article for the Influence and Success website: http://influenceandsuccess.com/?p=189

Four PAWs up to Teresa, and the Evolutionary Business Council members and Collaboration Call participants for supporting us in making our biggest goal yet become a reality.

Should you want to support me, Toby the dog, on our best seller campaign, I’d welcome your help. The big day is May 17! You can click here:

http://hasmarkservices.com/campaigns/toby.html

to join the campaign and you will receive everything you need from Jenn and Judy at Hasmark Servicers closer to the date!

Barking out a big THANK YOU!

Toby the dog...

Are you as smart as a second grader?

Doing presentations at schools is PAWsome- I love meeting all the students, and hearing the questions they ask Charmaine about me and my book, on Toby’s Terms.

Recently, at a school in Oceanside, we met the most amazing young student, Tommy is his name. He introduced himself this way “I’m Tommy, I’m a writer too!” I immediately fell in love with his gentle confidence. He proceeded to tell me that “my teacher told me I should show you my book.” Charmaine read it page by page, smiling and looking at Tommy. I knew she was impressed.

He said “See, I even put in a bit of humour” as he pointed to a picture he had drawn and showed Christopher.

This young student asked the most intriguing questions about the book writing and publishing process. His goal is to have his book published, and, to make a movie! Now that is a boy who already knows his purpose! WOOF!

Thank you Tommy for inspiring the three of us!

A Toby Riddle

I have a PAWsome sense of humor. I love the sound of laughter, and making people laugh. Apparently I don’t have to work to hard at bringing joy and laughter to people, they tell me I am funny just being me.

Here’s a riddle for you.

What’s black and white, squawks, is found on the beach and flies?
The answer is...drum roll please... Toby’s Toys!

People on the beach think I’m pretty funny running around with my head to the heavens barking. They think I’m just happy (which I am) but really, I am trying to fetch my flying toys, otherwise known as seagulls.

A Toby Riddle

I have a PAWsome sense of humor. I love the sound of laughter, and making people laugh. Apparently I don’t have to work to hard at bringing joy and laughter to people, they tell me I am funny just being me.

Here’s a riddle for you.

What’s black and white, squawks, is found on the beach and flies?
The answer is...drum roll please... Toby’s Toys!

People on the beach think I’m pretty funny running around with my head to the heavens barking. They think I’m just happy (which I am) but really, I am trying to fetch my flying toys, otherwise known as seagulls.

The Knots Prayer

“Success comes in CANS, not can’ts” said James T. Reese more than 12 years ago at an event Charmaine co-organized. That quote has become her mantra, especially during challenging times.

It is amazing what PAWsitibilites surface when you change your language and your thoughts. A simple change from the word CAN’T to CAN changes everything! We found this prayer on the internet, that sums it all up beautifully…

The Knots Prayer

Dear God:

Please untie the knots that are in my mind, my heart and my life.
Remove the have nots, the can nots and the do nots that I have in my mind.
Erase the will nots, may nots, might nots that may find a home in my heart.
Release me from the could nots, would nots and should nots that obstruct my life.
And most of all,
Dear God:
I ask that you remove from my mind, my heart and my life all of the am nots that I have allowed to hold me back, especially the thought that I am not good enough.

Amen

Wolf Pack

Last week Charmaine was doing a presentation to a team on the topic of Teamwork by Design. I always weave my way into her presentations somehow.

One of the workshop participants left her a little note written on a piece of paper which said “Charmaine, The strength of the pack is the wolf. The strength of the wolf is the pack!”

WOW! What a great way to look at a team.

Being A Published Author

The 5 Advantages of Being A Published Author
By Maribel Jimenez & Keith Leon

1. Credibility – By becoming a published author in an area that you are familiar with, you have now positioned yourself as an expert in your field. You’ve taken the time to provide valuable information on a topic that others’ could benefit from so you will be looked at as a resource.

Having credibility means you have gained belief by others in your subject area that can sometimes take years to build.


2. Respect – You are the one who actually DID write a book, instead of the one who said they were going to write a book and never did. You have now identified yourself as a doer instead of being a talker or a dreamer.

A level of respect is gained by doing something that others may have only dreamed of doing. As mentioned earlier in this book, only .01% of those who say they want to write a book, actually do it.


3. Clients – You will attract many more clients than ever before. Being an expert in your field opens up many more possibilities to get your name out there (such as being a guest on radio shows, TV, Webinars and teleseminars).

The quality of clients will be better because you have now positioned yourself as the expert, which also allows you to charge more for your services. Because you have positioned yourself as an expert, your clients will no longer be trying to get you to discount your valuable services.

With a book, your message gets into so many others hands than you could possibly try to talk to one at a time. Potential clients have an opportunity to get to know you, what you are about and whether they want to learn more from you all before they have ever even met you.


4. Raving Fans – There is nothing more satisfying than when you have someone in front of you sharing how your book touched their life, or you receive an email or letter from a raving fan of yours. Your book is going to help someone get to where they always wanted to be and they are going to be grateful to you.


5. Testimonials – Once you receive these stories from people whose life you helped change for the better, now you have testimonials for your website, articles, proposals, bio and for your next book. Anytime a person shares how you have helped them, you can ask them to put it in writing so that you can share their inspiring story with others. It’s a win/win/win for everyone.

To learn more about Maribel Jimenez & Keith Leon, Best-Selling Author’s programs, coaching, and tools to get your book out of your head and onto the page visit www.BakeYourBook.com .

A picture really does say 1000 words

Last week I was a star with children of all ages at the Mom, Pop & Tots Fair 2011 in Edmonton.

I bet I was cuddled, petted and hugged by at least 700 children, and many parents too! Nothing was more exciting for a fun loving dog than to look out into the audience and see hundreds of children, toys, balloons, candy, stuffed animals and smiling faces looking back at me!

A little boy named Liam stopped by our booth for a Toby cuddle and as he was leaving I saw him show his mom the picture that Christopher gave him to remember me. As he looked back holding the picture in his hand he said “Mommy! Now I don’t have to miss Toby anymore!”


A picture does really say 1000 words.

WOOF!

This past week we celebrated being Number 1 on Amazon.ca! Thanks to everyone for their support and PAWsome interest in my book On Toby’s Terms!

Toby presents at Mom and Tots Fair Edmonton

Guess Where Toby is going to be March 11 & 12? At the Mom, Pop & Tots Fair in Edmonton. Hope you can come and visit us at our booth. I’ll be giving visitors a special pawdograph!

http://www.mpt.edmontonshows.com/whats-on

Toby Goes to School

I LOVE going to School! I don’t mean dog school, I mean elementary school. There is nothing like watching the expressions of children entering the gym or library and seeing me, Toby the dog, smiling back at them. Their response is PAWsome – I hear gleeful comments “A Dog!” or “Ah, he’s so cute!” or “That’s Toby!”
One of my most memorable greetings was when I arrived at a school at recess time. One little girl dressed in her pink snow suit, pink hat and pink boots, came to the fence and shouted “Toby’s Here!” with that, some 75 other students ran to the fence to greet me. Talk about feeling like a four legged star.
The students helped Charmaine and Christopher carry in our supplies, and then I got to play fetch with the students at recess. It was any dogs dream---children, the Kong and laughter!

Making Moments Matter

Charmaine’s motto for 2011 is Making Moments Matter!

For me, there have been many moments that matter. I have met some PAWsome people, attended some PAWtastic events and still find joy in playing with my favourite toys and curling up by the fire after a fun filled day.
How do you make your moments matter? Here’s a four paws up approach:
• Be present, in the moment. It is difficult to make moments matter if life is passing you by.
• Appreciate moments, and the people that make the moments happen. Coming from a place of gratitude will pave the way for more to be grateful for.
• Be passionate, playful and PAWsitive!
• PAW it Forward.

Toby with Justin Hines

From The Mouth of Babes

Over the past few months we have met close to 2000 students in the schools that Charmaine and I have presented at (well she does the talkin’ and I do the barkin’). There have been some PAWsome questions that the children have asked about me such as:

• What’s the worst thing Toby ever did?
• Will Toby play himself in the movie?
• What does Toby do when he meets someone from a different country?
• How does Toby tell an adult if he is afraid or lonely?
• What makes Toby feel sad?
• What would Toby do if he saw a cat?
• Does Toby ever have bad dreams?

This week when presenting at a school, I started barking up a storm during the question and answer period. I was so barky I had to go for a time out ( a bark break). The students thought it was pretty interesting that I am not PAWfect, and sometimes need a break or a time out, like they might need from time to time. Life is not about being PAWfect, it is about living and being you (impawfections and all!).

Dare to be a DREAMER

We had a PAWsome time at our book signing at Urban Grassland in Spruce Grove, what an incredible eco store (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=143722068858) this is.

They had the most amazing t-shirts with PAWsitive sayings, that are from Dare to Be (www.daretobe.ca.

Barb also gave me this beautiful bookmark from Dare to Be, please enjoy and make sure you visit Urban Grassland, or check out the Dare to Be online store.

Dare to be a DREAMER Pledge
By Dare to Be 2008 www.daretobe.ca

I have dreams
I believe that dreams come true.
I create a vision and then let inspiration guide me.
I am open to change and new horizons.
I let my imagination soar.
I embrace my inner child.
I delight in moments of bliss.
I re-examine my life and my dreams often and find ways to align the stars.
I allow my excitement to show.
I am not afraid of what others think.
I follow my heart and am true to what I believe.
I am positive about the future and all it has to offer.
I make time for me and my dreams, I deserve it.
I share my dreams with others who uplift and support me.
I let my heart be my guide.

Save the date!

Save the Date! Join us at our PAWesome On Toby’s Terms Book Launch celebration on February 26!

I love a celebration! There will be good appetizers, great music, fun stories, kids and books for me to PAWdograph. All of my favorite things in one room!


When: Saturday February 26, 2011 4-7 pm
Where: Matrix Hotel,
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.


Refreshments and appetizers will be served. At 4:45 some special guests will be joining us for some exciting new news!

Please RSVP to Chris (my pet parent and manager) at chris.alcock@hammondgroup.biz or 780-464-3828

PAWsitive Edmonton Pet Expo

I was at PET EXPO Edmonton for two days, it was PAWesome. Everyone told me that they recognized my bark, even when other dogs were barking.
I raised $210 for the two Pet Expo designated charities, and got to visit with two of my great sponsors: Kaytie Stack of K9 Awareness Centre and Karah McDonald of Bone & Biscuit Sherwood Park.
The best part was Charmaine and I doing our presentation on having a PAWesome 2011. She talked about having a purpose and how when I got connected with my purpose (spreading joy and helping from the heart), my life changed (and my behavior improved). The number one question we heard at our booth this weekend has only four words--- “Is this THE Toby?” It was four paws up feeling! I pawdographed a ton of books, cuddled lots of people, and made friends with many new furry friends (and met my first reptile).

Check out this picture of me on the new Spot On Treadmill that K9 Awareness had on display.
This week I challenge you to reach out and connect with someone new, make that person feel special just like everyone made me feel when they came to meet me at Pet Expo.
Until next time---let’s make it a PAWsitive week!

Unique habits set us apart from others

We all have our unique habits and qualities. Toby has such a funny way of sleeping in the vehicle. One would think because he gets the whole back seat that he would stretch out and take up the whole space. Not our Toby! Toby sleeps with his head on the floor (resting softly on his two front legs which are crossed on the floor and his butt on the back seat) . To each his own.

What are the unique habits and qualities that make you who you are?

The Bark that Echos

Well, I love Wednesdays! It was my afternoon to volunteer at Alberta Hospital Edmonton, clearly my favorite day of the week. It was too cold to go outside (minus 25 degrees Celsius) so we played fetch in the basement hallway, the patients taught me a few new tricks, and I learned how loud my bark really is --- it echos in the hallways.

Unique habits set us apart from others

We all have our unique habits and qualities. Toby has such a funny way of sleeping in the vehicle. One would think because he gets the whole back seat that he would stretch out and take up the whole space. Not our Toby! Toby sleeps with his head on the floor (resting softly on his two front legs which are crossed on the floor and his butt on the back seat) . To each his own.

What are the unique habits and qualities that make you who you are?

Come visit Toby at Edmonton Pet Expo Jan 22 and 23, 2011

http://www.petexpo.ca/whats-on

GET YOUR PAWDOGRAPHED BOOK FROM TOBY