Hagar Daily

CELEBRATION

2012-02-13T08:06:00.000-08:00

Everyday is a celebration of life, to wake up feeling a sense of gratitude for this one life we have, our breath and all that surrounds us. Celebrate who you are, where you're at in life, no matter where that is, to celebrate those around you or those who have gone before us. It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day, to get bogged down at work or by responsibilities, wrapped up in tradedgy, or drama, to ignore the beauty and magic of the very thing we've created on our own...our lives.

It's up to us to really put things into perspective, to know that it is our attitude that can create a good day, bad day, good relationship, situation, event, or a bad one. It's up to us to take each experience we have and celebrate the fact that we had that experience at all, regardless of the outcome. Smile at someone who is angry, laugh at something that annoys you, embrace everything around you.

It's up to us to celebrate each and everyday that we have on this Earth. Make everyday your Birthday, or a New Year's celebration and celebrate what you have - it will only bring about joy and a positive effect!

Spring cleaning...In February?

2012-02-07T10:24:00.000-08:00

The other day, what seemed like a few daily chores, turned into a bit of what I think may have been "spring cleaning." We all know how it starts, you try to put something in the cupboard only to realize there is ABSOLUTELY no room, you shove a shirt into an already full drawer...you try a few different times to squeeze the object into place, give a huff and start piling all of that cupboards contents onto the counter. It's not the time for spring cleaning though, it's only Feb - what is going on?

I guess I was just tired of shoving things into places where there is no more room, squeezing it in, covering up and masking the real issue that there are some things that need a-purging!

Ah, the light bulb went off...there are things that I am also doing in my life that need to be "de-cluttered" in a sense. Am I keeping up with that New Year Resolution? Am I building more walls to protect myself from truth, am I covering up something I need to discover? What about overcommitting myself, setting expecations that are unnessary?

Day after day we collect and neglect. It's time to stop adding to the mess, take a step back, clear it out and reveal what's underneath it all!

My Own best friend...

2012-01-30T06:47:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of friends in this world, my duck, my superball, I have fatbird and blue bird, golf ball, my buddie, my nicki ree and so many others. But,my most important friend in the world is myself. A lot of people forget that -being a true friend to others, having a true friendship from others starts withbeing a best friend to yourself.

Think about it this way, if a friend is having a bad day, do you tell themit's probably something that they said, that they did, and now they shouldspend the day punishing themselves, light a cigarette, drink too much or tellthem they should just go and spend the rest of the day overeating? NO! You tellthem it's going to be ok, that you are there to listen and to support them, youtell them they need to let go. So why wouldn't we support our own selves withthat very same advice? Think about caring for a child - if they get hurt orfall down, do you yell at them to get up and get over it? No, you help them totheir feet and offer compassion, love and support, you help heal their wounds.

If we start to offer the same kind of care to ourselves as we would for ourbest friend or a child, we will be able to connect and live in a way thatbetter suits a higher ideal, one of goodness and that follows our very ownnature, who we truly are deep down inside.

Today, my best friend is myself and I love that person so very much...

Joy Ride

2011-12-06T07:19:00.001-08:00

There is the story of two flies who get locked in a plane after the cabin doors are closed. The one fly finds a resting spot and takes comfort in knowing that he's not responsible for how the plane navigates through the air. The other panics and takes on the responsibility of flying back and forth, feverishly flapping his small wings - for if HE doesn't keep flying, surely the plane will crash to the ground.

The story ends sadly because the second fly soon exhausts himself to death while his friend safely lands and exits with the other passengers.

LIke the unfortunate fly, we too so often try to take control over situations that really aren't for us to do so. Instead, hand over the driver's wheel, take a breath, smile and move into the passenger's seat. We don't need the window down and the sun on our face to enjoy the ride. Live in the moment and know that there are certain things that we just need to ride along.

Sometimes it's our role to take a seat and enjoy the ride. Go ahead, roll down the window, turn up the music and let your hair blow in the wind!

My Rock...my foundation

2011-11-23T04:49:00.001-08:00

The only constant in life is change...so in this whirlwind around us, moving, shaking, going, speeding in a flurry of events, experiences, emotions, relationships, challenges, celebrations and so much more, we find solice, steady support in our foundation.

Like a mountain that rises high enough above the clouds so that the sunlight ALWAYS hits it's peak, we find steady in our foundation, like a rock. People, emails, interactions, conversations, drama will take place around us, constantly moving like clouds around the mountain, but we remain firm and strong. We may wish they go away, but who would shade our valleys, who would provide season and rain for our growth? We can experience, embrace it all and have gratitude for it all while remaining unaffected, and strong.

Today, I will stand on my rock, my foundation, and let the clouds go by, knowing who I am, what I stand for, loving and grateful for all of it.

The Shoreline...

2011-11-15T05:53:00.001-08:00

Our journey could be like a river, wide and strong and moving all of the time...our journey could be a road filled with pot holes and road blocks along the way....our journey is a path that winds and weaves, through woods with sunlight and shade.

No matter what our individual lives look like, what form our path takes shap of, it is important to see it, our journey, as a whole from time to time. To notice all that it has to offer, to take moment to feel the sunlight and enjoy the shade, to float down the middle of the river and when to cling to the shore, to drive on, slow down, speed up, or when to rest. It's important that we work to detach ourselves from any single element that might come along our path and continue on with the journey, living in each present breath.

Today I am grateful for the journey, the path that I walk, the distractions along the way and most of all the beauty I get to experience and grow from!

Resist the Overthought...

2011-10-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

The mind will drive you to insanity...it will give you thoughts that are not true, feed you lines or stories that are created without validity, will make you think things that are untrue are true, create false situations and so much more. Someone could send you an email, or not respond via text right away, a tone of voice or a look could alarm you, and BOOM the mind runs rapid. Next thing you know, you're crying, in the fetal position and have gone into lock down in your own home searching for protection. All because an experience was simply over thought...

Maybe you're not a victim to this, but for some, over thinking can be run into this from time to time and feel paralyzing. The good news? We can avoid this, we can move beyond the over thought and resist that of which the mind feeds us and look at a higher lesson a higher ideal. By practicing our yoga, living our truth, sticking to our intentions, reading motivational messages or texts, we can move beyond what the mind tells us and stay clear of our dramatic self. It takes practice, a commitment, and an unwavering strength to learn and educate ourselves.

The next time you are confronted with an unsatisfactory experience, look at it through the eyes of your puppy...take it for what it's worth, look at the facts - stay strong and resilient of what the mind might start to feed you and resist over thinking it.

Finding a Balance...

2011-09-29T14:35:00.000-07:00

Finding a Balance...

When do we sleep, when do we wake up, how can we complete our daily tasks and work a full day? How much should we eat verses want to eat? How can we create quality time with friends, family and our significant other all at the same time? How can we please others while keeping ourselves at peace and caring for our own needs?

The definition for balance is having a state of equilibrium or equipoise; equal distribution of weight, amount. It is composed of mental stability or equilibrium. The truth is that there is no right or wrong answer to these questions or perfect solution as to how to have it all. It's up to us to be still and connect with our breath with each experience we have in order to create a sense of equilibrium.

Today, take a moment to stop and check your current state of tasks, to-do's obligations, chores and commitments. Ask yourself if you are maintaining your mental stability all the while having to assess them all. If the answer is no, it's time to let something go.

I can only balance one ball at a time...

Take that first step...

2011-09-21T07:29:00.000-07:00

We stand on the side walk and look around at the plush grass or big fields, we just know they are waiting for us to charge into them and roll around, run, bark and play. But what else might be out there? A rodent? A big dark hole we could fall into? We could get hurt, we could fall down? What about the blades of grass that have grown too big that you can't see past them? The unknown? Do you play it safe and stay on the sidewalk? Do you take the chance?

Dreaming is doing, and it's up to us to live each day without letting fear tie us to our sidewalk, our day-to-day path of routine and comfort. We can sit around all day waiting and wanting life to happen but unless we take that chance, take that first step, no matter how big or small, we can never fully experience all that it has to offer. Today, take a different route to work and get lost, try a new food, take up a hobby, explore a getaway, journal a fear...take that first step.

With so much experience and potential ahead of us, we need to get off of the paved comfortable sidewalk. Go ahead, take that first step, give it a try...from there the next step won't be so hard.

Come on...bring it in...

2011-09-20T06:02:00.000-07:00

Come on...where've you been? Bring it in for a big hug...

Good Morning, how was your est? Bring it for a big hug...

Have a great day...bring it in for big hug...

Had a bad day? Bring it for a big hug...

Sometimes the best words are no words at all, but an endearing, big lovable hug from puppy or someone you love. It can say exactly what you need to hear and comfort the heart like nothing else. Share and spread the love today. Give someone, anyone a big hug from Hagar...

King for a Day!

2010-10-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

What would you do if you were King or Queen for the day? Would you have your loyal servants bring you all material and worldly desires upon your command? Would you govern a people with a strong authoritative arm, punishing those who disobey? Would you implement rules and regulations to help improve the wealth of your own account?

What would you do if you were King of Queen for the day? Would you give back to your people? Would you think of others before yourself, or give away your worldly possessions and seek for a higher ideal? Would you govern and rule in a way to help promote those very people who make up your community working to create peace within your land? Would you redirect those in need and assist those less fortunate?

Truth is that we are all Kings and Queens everyday of our lives, with the right to rule and govern as we practice peace, love, patience, sharing and giving. We can be that of which rules, or that of which gives - the choice is ours. The truth is we are all a King and a Queen everyday of our lives...it's up to us on how we want to use our power.

You are a king, you are the queen - choose to serve one another...

Look Beyond...

2010-10-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

I am having a bad day because the person in the cube next to me is annoying...I am upset because someone cut me off in traffic...I will never go to that restaurant because they have terrible service...

These are often these "blanket" statements we make on a daily basis without even really thinking. Have you ever heard anyone say 'it was a really bad year for me.' Really?? All 365 days were bad???

What we don't realize is that there is something else we are all missing? Look beyond, look deeper...there is more to it than allowing an insignificant event or situation affect our state of being. Maybe instead of another person being annoying, we need to practice patience. Instead of reacting to the person who cut you off, rise above and know that it may have drawn your alertness back onto the steering wheel and to safety. Maybe at the restaurant, you have to show gratitude for the food and service you are able to experience in today's world.

Get in close, closer, look harder and deeper, look beyond the surface situation and find a deeper meaning.

Take Shelter

2010-10-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's raining out, the rain is falling harder and harder, lightening and thunder...take Shelter

The snow if falling, the winds are piercing and the air is so cold you can see your own breath...take Shelter

Natural disaster...take Shelter

Too hot...take Shelter

You feel sad and lonely, and need a break from the day...take Shelter

We don't necessarily need some major outside occurrence or circumstance to give ourselves permission to "Take Shelter." Shelter can come to us as taking a break from a busy day. Taking that meeting that you have scheduled as a time to do your yoga practice instead. It's recognizing fear, anger, anxiety or addition in the face.

Most important is noticing and recognizing that we are worth taking the time and attention away from other things to give to ourselves in a form of care, recuperation, rest and retreat.

Allow yourself to Take Shelter...

take the BACK seat.

2010-07-12T05:55:00.000-07:00

We are always so eager to jump in the driver seat. To step in and take over, take control. To make sure we know which direction we're going in and see every step along the way. We control the way the wheel turns, the temperature in the vehicle, the scenery we take in and the roads we travel. Our anxiety peaks when we cannot control the traffic or a misguided direction. We almost start to panic when that sense of control is lost - we get angry at others in their vehicles watching their every move and shouting at them when their moves do not align with our expectations.

Get out of the driver seat - haven't you realized by now that we are NOT in control of most things that happen in this life of ours. Take a back seat, roll down the window and take in the fresh air. Look around and ask that the music be turned up so that you can sing along with the tunes. Let the driving force of your vehicle be trust and faith in a greater power, knowing that you will get to where you need to be safe and sound.

Sit back, buckle up and enjoy the ride...take a back seat and know that you will get to your destination safe and sound.

Like water on a duck's back...

2010-07-08T05:53:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen water on a duck's back? No matter how submerged their bodies become, water seems to collect into droplets behind their necks and eventually rolls down their feathers back into the water. If you watch, their feathers always seem, or appear to be dry - if they were to soak up all of the water that they float along in, they might not float so much and eventually begin to sink.

Think of stress, anxiety, other people's opinions or the things they say as the water around us - then think of yourself as the duck. If we were to soak up and internalize everything negative that came across our path, we'd eventually start to drown, we'd sink and find it hard to breath, the water, rising above us in the form of all of these outside circumstances. It pulls us down, depresses us, holds us back, chocking and eventually drowning us - we are pulled DOWN by these things. We need to think of our body in the same way of our friends the duck, buoyant, and free, floating along letting everything just roll off our backs and in to the water.

Float along, let it roll off your back today and don't let anything soak in to weigh you down...Something becomes to much...use your wings and fly to another pond...

Put it out there -

2010-07-02T06:09:00.000-07:00

What do you want to do in five years? What do you want to do in one year? What do you wish you had more of in your life? What do you wish you had less of? What do you want most? What do you want least? What will it look like? What will it feel like? Whatever, whenever, however IT is...keep putting it out there.

In order achieve or obtain what we want most in our lives, no matter what it is, we have to project those wishes into the universe. It may sound strange, but putting it out there really ensures something will come you way. The problem that most of us face is waiting, timing, wanting something at that very moment when it's not ready yet. The best thing we can do is visualize what we want most, put it into the university and wait. What we want most will come our way eventually and we will have the opportunity to enjoy.

Put it out there, believe in it, visualize, hope and pay....then wait.

The right thing to do...

2010-06-30T06:42:00.001-07:00

What is the right thing to do? Who determines what "the RIGHT" thing actually is? Is it our faith? Our parents, history, neighbors or a committee we belong to? Does our job define what is right or wrong for us? If you are having a big party, and there are certain people who have hurt you, have and continue to do wrong by you, make you feel bad, do you have to invite them? Is that really "the right" thing to do? And says who?

The right thing to do is based on our own truth. What your parents might think is the right thing does not mean that it is right by you. If you are hosting a party to celebrate something important to you, the right thing to do is to include those who are going to celebrate with you, who cherish who you are and whom you have developed a sound relationship. Our parents, friends, family members are influenced and follow their own truth. And what is right for us, can be based on our upbringing, our faith, our daily practices and self worth, but the bottom line it is right for you!

Only you can define what the right thing to do is, don't let others influence you into believing what they might think is the right thing...

Keep the Puppies in a Box...

2010-06-29T05:50:00.000-07:00

I've often heard the phrase "Make sure you keep all the puppies in the box," during times of planning, organizing, getting ready for a big meeting, or an event. At first I wasn't really sure what it meant, but now I get it. If you were to put 4-5 newborn puppies in a box, chances are with their energy and excitement for life, they will try to jump out. If any one of the puppies jumps out of the box, it then becomes your responsibility to chase and capture the escapee while trying to make sure the remaining puppies stay in the box - that can be a lot to handle. Can you imagine if all puppies were to escape? You'd be running all over the place.

If you think about it, each and everyday we're really trying to keep the puppies in the box. Trying to juggle a lot of responsibilities or tasks, all the while keeping calm, organized and at peace in our daily lives. If a puppy gets loose, it's up to us to stay relaxed, avoid anxiety and instead work on retrieving that puppy. One could say it's all in a days work, but it's the internal believe system and philosophy that will help ensure success and avoid what could turn into a chaotic situation. We know we need to recenter ourselves when we find all puppies out of the box running rapid and wild, causing terror everywhere while WE have crawled into this small space and into the fetal position as a way to avoid it altogether.

Today, stay calm, evaluate your surroundings and your space, your tasks and responsibilities. If a puppy gets away, it's easier to retrieve with a sound mind and if all else fails, you can always cheat and throw a cookie or toy into the box to distract the puppies!

Attachments

2010-06-28T05:57:00.000-07:00

What are you most attached to? What do you feel the most connection to? What do you need day after day or do you feel most passionate about in your life? Is it your home, your family, your car, any material possessions or is it some sort of routine that helps keep life in balance and in check for you, is it medication or supliment, a food or a bad habit?

Having an attachment to things can be both good and bad. If we are so attached to something that we react in a negative way when outside circumstances alter that attachment, then it is time to build some healthy distance between. If you are attached to something that keeps you motivated and strong, or has a powerful meaning and keeps you centered, then this could be a healthy attachment for you. Having a healthy attachment to a loved one or material object is keeping you close enough to it that you take care of it and feel joy, any feelings of jealousy, anxiety, fear or anger could lead to an unhealthy connection to that same thing. The bottom line is that we want to look at the things we feel attached to in our life and then evaluate whether it is a healthy attachment or an obstacle to furthering our daily growth.

Take a look at the things in your life that you're currently attached to and evaluate the the level to which you are connected. Take steps to build distance between yourself and unhealthy attachments, and cherish those that keep you healthy and centered.

Mobility

2010-06-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

If we look at a loose definition of what 'Mobility' is we might see that it is a state in which one is capable of moving readily from place to place, able to change quickly from one state or condition to another and change levels, all with fluid ease. If you ask me, this truly means being able to go with the flow. To accept change and being open to the physical or mental demands it may call for.

Are you someone who resists being mobile? When you are required to change quickly from one state or condition to another, how do you react? Are you stressed or feeling anxious, do you create a tense atmosphere for others as a reaction to the uncertainty that might arise within you? Do you find mobility easy? Are you so mobile that you cannot even sit still for a moment?

If you answered yes to the questions above, it's time to take a deep breath and tune into how we react to changing environments, relationships, feelings, emotions, state of minds, etc. If change is difficult, create a safety zone for yourself, or take steps that allow for a time of recovery and acceptance during your mobility - small doses will ensure you remain relaxed and in a good status of mind. If you're so mobile you can't sit still, it's time to slow down, to take a moment and enjoy each step along your journey of change.

Find a balance in your mobility, a place that feel comfortable to move but yet allows you to enjoy each step.

Do I have to?

2010-06-24T06:09:00.000-07:00

So many choices, so many options, so many things to consider. If I like one thing, should I try the others because they are there? What if I would like something differently than this one, but never tried it so I don't know. If I want to play with the duck right now, should I try playing with the ball because maybe I would have more fun with it? But I'm happy with the duck right now...do I have to?

We could spend hours weighing out every decision that comes along our way on a daily basis. From ordering something to eat, shopping for groceries, choosing and outfit, to selecting just the right gift, there are so many options and things that we could do. Sometimes we already know what we want but are constantly tempted to keep on looking. They say that when you have found the "right one" as it can pertain to anything, you will "just know" - I for one truly believe that. The problem is that we get swayed to continue a search based on outside influences, opinions or just having too many options.

Trust your gut...listen to your intuition and you will just know - when you want to ask yourself, do I have to keep looking, going, choosing, thinking, trying? The answer is NO - you know what you want...you know what's right for you.

Recover!

2010-06-23T06:59:00.000-07:00

Push, push, push. How many times do we talk about pushing ourselves to the limit to going above and beyond what our bodies, our nerves, our scheduled allow for and taking on too much. For as much as you work, train and push yourself remember to RECOVER. To give a minute for the mind, the body, and the spirit to bounce back from whatever it is currently engaged in, to take a step back, to pull back from all of the pushing.

In regards to fitness, you should plan a recovery plan during and after your workouts. Take 15 minutes to work hard toward a running or cycling goal and right when you hit it, give yourself 2-3 mintues to let the body recover, ease up on the resistence, speed etc - recover.

In regards to eating, take a few bites and allow the body to take in, absorb and utilyze the food for the nutritional value - recover.

When it comes to friendships and relationships in trouble, allow some time to recover - space to think something over or rethink a choice or decision - recover.

In work, give yourself downtime or a minute to step away from a project or internet to let your mind and patience unwind - recover.

When you sleep - recover.

Whatever you do each and everday, plan your recovery sessions accordingly. Sometimes it's even ok to take a full recovery day.

You DESERVE the best

2010-06-22T05:53:00.001-07:00

Last night I had the opportunity to visit one of my very favorite restaurants. They have a great atmosphere and amazing food - the head chef is phenomenal. It was a Monday night, nothing too crazy or special happened, but it was a great no-good-reason to go out on the town for a date night. A night, a nice dinner to celebrate us, our life and our love, being alive and the gifts we are given in our daily lives.

The chef made a personal visit to our table and fed me some of his finest cheese. At first I was reluctant to eat the cheese, was I THAT special to get all of this attention? I mean, what did I really do to deserve this special night and this Executive chef visit and all of this positive attention. The answer is nothing....I really didn't do anything unique or out of the ordinary to be rewarded with, but instead I just deserve the best always... just like you do! It is up to us, to believe with all of our hearts that WE deserve the best life has to offer - to have confidence and appreciation for who we are in order to always receive the best there is! Defining what is the "best" can be subject to the circumstances, or what's available, but regardless we deserve it.

Believe in you. You deserve the best always, and nothing less will do!

A place to call Home

2010-06-21T06:50:00.000-07:00

How would you best describe your 'home?' Whether it be a house, a condo, an apartment, or a bedroom that you currently rent out, what sort of characteristics help define this place as your home - is it the decor? The candles you light with music in the background, is it where you entertain people, or drop your bags at the end of the day?

Home is where the heart is, or so the saying goes and it should be a place that is the best representation of who you are, what makes you happy, where you find safety and security. Even when we are bogged down with payments, the task of cleaning the house, or keeping up maintenance, we feel the send of importance or accomplishment of doing so. We don't need anything huge and lavish to do this. We can find that same feeling of 'home' in a moment or in a relationship, maybe even in our own skin, treating ourselves with that feeling pride and ownership.

Open your heart up, open up your mind and feel the sense of feeling at home no matter what the situation.

DO your Best.

2010-06-18T06:26:00.001-07:00

Do your best - that's all you can do. It doesn't matter what others might define as being "your" personal best, because that's their issue, not yours. If at the end of the day, you can honestly say - well, I did my best... then there should be no regret, guilt, there should be no self-doubt, sadness or a feeling of lacking. It is easy to get caught up in the society standards or of what others might think our best should be, what, how and to which level we should complete something.

Sometimes even when we don't feel at our full potential, maybe we're operating at a level that might be affected by outside curcumstances, sickness or new challenges we're not familiar with. If even in the face of challenges, we continue to do and accept what our best is, we will not think any less of ourselves. Happiness comes from learning to just be, to roll with things, and knowing that you did your best...

Be honest with yourself, be true to yourself and always do your best...

So you think it...

2010-06-17T05:47:00.000-07:00

So it is...our mind is a very, very powerful thing. Sometimes our mood is not so much dependent on outside circumstances and is more a materialization of what our mind has projected. For example if on a Sunday night, you start to think about Monday morning, all of the work you have ahead of you, the work week, responsibilities, tasks and the days ahead of you, your mind begins to actively feel anxious, a feeling of "I don't want to" comes into effect. All of a sudden Monday rolls around and you feel groggy, tired, annoyed to be at work. This feeling isn't a result of the day of the week or your responsibilities, but more of what your mind has willed for you.

As a little puppy I used to think of the way I would most enjoy spending my days, and now as life progresses for me, the thoughts I generated have become a reality. I get eggs on Thursday, I have a nice home and a wonderful family. I listen to nice music all day long while I play with my superball, nap and gaze out into my surroundings. Had I thought about anything else, or worried about where I might be someday, chances are I could be out on the streets or a pound puppy.

Think of what you want most, how you want to live each day and what makes you happy - these thoughts will become a reality - be patient and keep the thoughts strong in your heart.

Make a Memory Last forever

2010-06-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

Nothing lasts forever, we all know that - people move, relationships change, experiences fade, years go by and things just change. The school year ends, a class concludes, your living arrangements fade, a baby comes, a parent goes - things just don't remain the same always. It's the natural progression of our spiritual, mental growth, strength challenges and life experiences.

I personally feel the most impact of change when a friend moves. It makes me sad knowing that they won't be just a few feet away to talk to or go visit, to grab a bite with or spend time with on a random night of the week. It can be difficult not to make the situation about you, feel bad for you or feel like you're the victim that's being left behind. Each person has their own path. It is our responsibility to walk our own path to the fullest as we allow others to walk theirs - to embrace our meetings, cherishing any and all relationships we establish, learn the lessons meant for one another and to always keep the memory alive. It is our duty to work at keeping any sort of distance put between us and another as just a challenge to keep our relationship strong and to work harder to overcome.

As people, situations, things and the world continues to change around us, it is the relationship that stays strong and the connection that is important. Capture each event and make it a memory lives in your heart.

Perceptions

2010-06-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's easy to perceive things in a way that is true to what your standards and beliefs are. You may look at someone and make a judgement to the style of their hair, the style of their clothes, the way they walk or talk based on what you are used to or what is right for you. We may even disregard someone based on their looks because they do not match what our personal code requires. For example, you may look at Hagarboy and think he's messy and needs a haircut, but I personally think that my personality can come out with my poofy hair - I AM the Hagar boy warrior...until I get my summer puppy cut of course that is.

By doing this, judging people right off the bat from our perceptions, we rob ourselves the chance and opportunity to make a new connection, to learn from someone who is different, and to enhance our knowledge of cultural differences. People march to the beat of their own drum - the same way you learned to conduct yourself in your daily life, so they have in theirs. Just because it may appear different from our personal code, does not mean we should disregard the chance to experience their beauty.

Give people a chance...perception can be a very limiting practice...

Make it special

2010-05-24T06:27:00.000-07:00

Whatever it is, make it special. If not for anyone else, make it special for you. Simple pleasures can be added to any activity, anything you do to make it special. Turn ordinary into extraordinary. Monday night dinner sound boring and normal? Make it special by creating a little fiesta! Lunch hour away from work seem limited and busy? Make it special by sitting outside and breathing in the fresh air or journaling for the whole hour.

Every moment of everyday is so very important to make the most of in this short life we are given it is up to YOU to make the most of it. Turn emails into an opportunity to express your talents, instead of looking at it as work, think of your drive to work as an adventure as you take the long way to avoid construction, think of chores as a cleansing activity to get out negativity and stale energy. Turn a normal conversation with a coworker away from gossip or complaining into a sharing of good experiences from the days of childhood or college, sharing movie plots or books...

You can make every moment special...makes life a lot more worth living!

Stay current -

2010-05-21T06:15:00.000-07:00

It is very important to be aware of the world around us, to watch the news, read the paper, peruse the Internet so that you can know what's going on around you and to be able to take an active role in the history we are creating. There is so much going on in the world on a daily basis, you will need to take certain stories, or headline news with you so that you can actively participate in conversation and to enlighten those who might not have access to the same media that you do.

While it is important to participate in worldly news, it's also important to keep a safe distance, to not get TOO involved in things that you cannot directly control. If you sit in front of CNN all day, getting worked up or upset about political or worldly issues, you will find that feelings of anxiousness or anxiety might arise within you. You might start to feel defensive or angry. Take the top headlines and move on. Let's do our part to participate in making healthy change in this world without letting those things that which we cannot directly control overrule our lives. You can do your part in each part of what affects the world in small doses...know you DO make a difference and have an impact but know that making change might take time, and you may not agree with decisions being made at a higher level.

Pay attention to the world we live in now, actively participate, but keep a safe distance from that which you cannot control...

Don't get stuck -

2010-05-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had the feeling you were about to get stuck? You are at a point in a situation or a conversation where you still have a little bit of wiggle room - you could step away from the situation or you could really get into it. This is a very crucial point where we need to tune into our energy and feelings more than ever. If you have an opportunity to exit a situation that is not really going to add or positively influence your life, then do so - don't poke your nose in where it doesn't belong, don't add your two cents when you weren't asked. If you think you are needed more, then apply your whole self, your whole heart and enter into the situation calm and strong.

Gossip, drama, confrontations, problems, mistakes - these are all situations that could cause us to get involved or walk away from.

A common theme here is that it's all about getting in touch with the situation and ourselves, making sure we have a clear head and a strong intuition to proceed forward or take a step back. Center yourself and rely on your breath, you will know what to do. Don't get stuck in something that you could have avoided and at the same time don't walk away from something that really could use your spirit.

Don't get stuck going after what is in the end a waste of energy...

Good Idea / Bad Idea

2010-05-17T05:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, what might have seemed like a good idea at the time, might not end being the best idea overall. For example, maybe you think that by staying up late at night to finish your favorite show or watch a movie might be a good idea at the time, but realize the next morning that it would have been a better idea to head to bed early and get a good night's sleep. Maybe choosing food that might seem like a good idea at the time, candy, chocolates, or french fries, might come to give you a stomach ache or make you feel sick after consumption. Making an impulse purchase that hasn't been well thought out or budgeted for, might cause more financial struggle for you later down the line.

Make sure that before you act out on any idea, you've weighed the negative or positive outcomes. Ask yourself if this will help improve or hinder your current state of being. By carefully thinking through each idea that comes into your mind, you'll be sure that you are taking an active role in living smart and taking care of yourself.

Today ask yourself if this is a good idea or a bad idea...

If the Shoe fits...

2010-05-14T05:55:00.001-07:00

- If the shoe fits...wear it. If it's too big, or too small, then it might not be the right shoe for you...

- Try to imagine what it might feel like to walk a day in another person's shoes...

- If you get your superball stuck in the shoe you should dig and try to flip it out...

All of these statements can provoke some important self-reflection for ourselves to help get in touch with ourselves and who we really are, as well as trying to facilitate relationships with others. We often make excuses for who we are, or what we do. We often deny the very words or things that might truly describe who we are...and for what? Wasted words and thoughts - you are who you are, wear the shoe that fits you and be proud...do not make excuses for you or for the things that make up who you are.

We are so quick to judge others to assume certain things without really know what they might be going through or what their shoes might feel like on our feet. Instead of being quick to judge, maybe we can consider for the moment that their reactions or personalities are a result of their life experiences.

When you get sick of the shoes altogether, hide your superball in it...it's Hagar boys favorite game and really no relevance to anything for self reflection...

Bottom line - if the shoe fits, wear it and before you judge someone, imagine what it must feel like to walk a day in their shoes.

one-onethousand...two

2010-05-13T06:32:00.000-07:00

First you see lightening...then you hear thunder, the storm is near. You see lightning and so you start counting, one-onethousand, two-onethousand, and then BOOM, you hear a crack of thunder. It's said that by counting the time between the first sign of lightening, and then the first sound of thunder you can tell approximately how many miles away the storm actually is. Maybe we secure the windows shut, that plants are covered, car windows shut, etc. We go somewhere high and dry until the storm passes.

We can count down to prepare ourselves for stormy weather, and make sure we are secure and safe...why wouldn't we do the same for ourselves as it pertains to situations in our lives? Holidays, big events, meetings, changes - we have to prepare ourselves. After the storm passes, we notice that the flowers have been watered, the lakes have been filled and the Earth is a little bit greener. Same goes for ourselves...making sure we are safe and sound and prepared for a storm, will ensure we come out a little bit stronger, taller, greener afterwards.

We prepare for the storm indeed, but we also notice the new life that has resulted!

Blend in

2010-05-12T05:52:00.000-07:00

What happens when we cannot get ourselves out of a situation. You want to sell your house but you are stuck, you are in the middle of a long meeting, a disagreement, you are stuck in traffic, stuck, stuck, stuck - all situations we want IMMEDIATE resolution or an OUT that we can't seem to find one. We start to react, we start to feel heat rise in our bodies, feelings of anger, stress, anxiety...eventually, we react with an outburst, a cry, an emotionally charged statement.

What if, instead of wasting our efforts on trying to get out of a situation we simply change focus to 'blend in.' We trick ourselves into feeling apart of the group or the situation to help ease the feelings of anxiety. We're not alone in our mortgage payments, we feel a bond to the people in the meeting with us who might be feeling the same way, instead of opposing others in a disagreement we blend into what they might be thinking and come to a resolution, sitting in traffic allows us to hear our favorite song or sit in silence and breath taking in the scenery of the sky.

Blend in...soon there WILL be an out, but why waste energy when the timing might not be right - remember that forcing and out might cause breakage...allow it to happen organically by blending into your scenery...

Stay in bed

2010-05-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's better to just stay in bed...isn't it? To roll over and hit the snooze button until whenever or shut the alarm off to wake up naturally. If the weather is dreary and we're not feeling like we're ready to take the world at full force, to just roll over and go back to sleep - right?

What happens when we cannot stay in bed? When we have the demands and the tasks ahead of us that need our full attention. It's a mental struggle most of the time, to get out of bed and take on the world when you're really just not all that into it. Take a few breaths, center yourself and have a good talk with yourself in the mirror. Give your pillow a long strong hug and leave it behind. It's up to you to change your attitude, to refocus on the tasks that demand your full attention.

Although you want to just stay in bed, the world needs you today, take a few breaths, let go of the fact you are NOT going to stay in bed today and make the most of the day!

Buckle up...

2010-05-06T05:54:00.001-07:00

In order to ensure your safety while traveling, you buckle into your seat, right? If you are on an airplane traveling an amusement park ride or say in one of those bumper cars, you always buckle up that safety belt to ensure your safety and prevent you from getting hurt. So why then would we not buckle up in times of stress in our lives?

We take care of ourselves and ensure our safety when in route but what about when faced with a stressful meeting, encounter, new endeavor, approaching a confrontation, etc? We sort of go in without any safety belt and let ourselves be completely exposed to danger. Try to envision an imaginary safety belt keeping you from harms way before you encounter any of these situations or others. We need to take care of ourselves first, and before we "buckle" under the pressure or fall apart in front of confrontations, we "buckle up" to protect ourselves.

Put on your seat belt today, keep yourself safe and traveling through the day in comfort - there will be NO crashing today...

Careful...it's catchy

2010-05-05T05:56:00.000-07:00

Did you ever notice how you yawn immediately after someone else yawns? Or when you smile at someone, it tends to bring about a smile. Someone smiles at you and you smile back. Someone growls at you, so you growl back. I sniff your butt, you sniff mine back - my initial action causes a similar reaction and vise verse...

We often respond to the way someone comes at us in a similar matter, our attitude or facial expression can actually determine how someone else is going to come back at us. We are nervous and high strung for a meeting, and so we find the others around us quickly respond to our energy in the same way - the result, a stressful high strung group of people creating stressful tasks or responsibilities.

In the same breath your have to trust your instincts - if you feel the need to growl at someone or be alerted by something unsafe, trust that instinct, but know that you will most likely be met by a similar response as the one you're giving off. It's the ebb and flow of our daily interactions that we must come to recognize. Most important is to be aware of your action or reaction and to take care of you first.

Wag your tail today, wag so that everyone can see and create a happy, excitement in the air for others to join in with...growl only when necessary...

Until it's gone...

2010-05-04T06:23:00.000-07:00

So the saying goes - 'you never know what you've got until it's gone.' Or something to that affect and I really experienced it late last night. I had a wonderful day full of napping, eating, car rides, a trip to the Custard Time ice cream store and of course playing with my Super Ball...It was time to end the evening and before I could get to bed, I needed to make sure my superball was safe and sound so that when I woke up, it would be right where I knew it would be. I searched, and searched and searched and could not find it. It was gone, nowhere to be found. I looked high and low and could not find it anywhere.

Sometimes we don't realize how much we love something, an object, a past memory, an old friendship or relationship until it's gone or lost. We start to think of 'the way things used to be' and feel sad or longing for that feeling again. The best thing that we can do before we move out of the area, before we take the next step in our lives, or before we decide to let go of something near and dear to us is to make sure we've appreciated it and given all of the attention and love that we have. When you say your goodbyes, or start to create the distance, don't have any regret - know that you did everything you could to make your relationship to that thing, that event, that person the BEST that it could be. Cherish the memory and hold it dear to your heart. And when it's gone, don't dwell on the shoulda, coulda, woulda's...accept what is and allow it to continue to shape your life...

I found my superball, it was stuck behind a large object - I am spending the whole day having fun with it!

Just Boogie...

2010-05-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

With all of this excitement in the air, how can you do anything but take time to boogie? To put on a good song and just move. To stop whatever you're doing and break it down to the beat. I know for me right now, it's an easy thing to do - my spirit is lifted, my heart is full and I feel light and bright with energy. I also recognize that this feeling is not always shared with everyone around me. I'm a lucky puppy with so much goodness around me, so here is my advice to you if you are feeling a blue or just having a plain old case of the Monday's...Put on a song - BUST it!

Sometimes if we sit long enough, we can start to feel the chair form to our bodies, we can start to feel our mood and our facial expressions meet the same sort of structure as something that is lifeless and without emotion. Sometimes our mood can feel saddened or something happens that brings us down and so we feel like we want to just be still and not move -it can be hard to see beyond it and hard to see anything exciting coming along. This is the perfect opportunity to do the opposite! Change your location, move your arms and lets and turn the corners of your mouth up. Pretty soon, you'll feel your mood is lifted and you can laugh at yourself as you take a good boogie around the room!

Meet me on the dance floor and take a good boogie-down to the beat!

Stop and Smell the flowers...

2010-04-14T05:37:00.000-07:00

Walk, work, clean, drive, dig, rush, do, push, hope, went, gone, run, go, late, eat, drink, laugh, solve, help, fix - all words that can consume our ENTIRE day....whatever you're doing, whatever word best describes where you're at this very moment, just STOP. Take a moment, look around, see the colors, and smell whatever flower is around you...no flowers? Then just take a minute to breathe.

I am a true example of someone who doesn't always take time to 'stop and smell the roses," but I certainly try - even if by reminding myself of this - I can't find my superball...I immediately panic, Superball is stuck...I immediately bark, I have a cookie that remains unhid...I feel anxious about finding the perfect spot. Once I get in touch with these feelings, and can stop to take a minute to just breath and relax, eventually it all works out. Not only does it work out but I have remained calm and taken a moment to appreciate the beauty of the flowers as well...

Take a minute, slow down and smell the flowers - let the aroma fill your heart and body, let the colors calm your mind and spirit...

Magic Carpet

2010-04-13T05:46:00.000-07:00

A tale of an impoverished boy who falls in love with a Princess being unable to suit her because he himself is not a Prince. The boy, Aladdin, becomes tricked into helping an evil sorcerer retrieve a special lamp in turn for wealth and riches - Aladdin must travel into an unknown cave and retrieve this lamp without knowing it's full powers. After the sorcerer attempts to double-cross him, Aladdin finds himself trapped in the cave with the lamp and a magical carpet to sweep him around. Aladdin eventually rubs the lamp himself and is granted three wishes to escape the cave and make attempts to win the Princess over.

The story goes on to have Aladdin wishing for riches and status to which he believes will help him gain the heart of his princess when all along he would have won her heart ultimately by being himself. While trying to court the Princess, Aladdin shows her the world on his Magic carpet.

Was it really a magic carpet?? Or would showing the world to her be an expression of loving her unconditionally, offering her a life of imagination, fun, laughter, hope and more? My belief is the latter...We don't need a magical carpet to fly us around the world, but instead we can do so through the use of creativity and imagination in our own mind - living beyond the everyday limitations we can sometimes feel.

Close your eyes and step onto your "Magic Carpet" let it swoop and sore you around letting your mind wander, twist and turn...opening up a whole new world from the everyday reality we get caught up in - doing so keeps our puppy alive within all of us...

Kick back

2010-04-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

It's easy to get overly excited about things we're looking forward to, or feel anxious because the time between wanting something to happen, and it actually happening is not as speedy as what we would prefer. We cannot control everything and the more we try, the more we loose sight of what's important and the joy of 'the wait' passes us by. It's easy to say 'I just can't wait until... or things will be better when...." and build expectations of what is to be. Instead of living in the future of what you're waiting for, focus in on the now.

For example, about a month ago, we could still see bare trees, dead grass, and grey life...we want desperately for leaves on the trees, our flowers to emerge from the ground, soft, green grass to be under our feet. But, what if you sit back and take in the right now, the signs of new life, little buds that grow each day, the slow progression of flowers out of the ground and grass becoming full and plush, and the building sound of birds as they multiple in their song. Experiencing the miracle of life coming out of a long winter, so that when summer does come and the world is in full bloom, you can know that you were apart of it, engaged every step of the way...

Sit back, relax and take in the now, only then will you truly appreciate what's to come!

Get your Paws Dirty...

2010-04-08T06:19:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried to do the dishes without getting your hands wet? Have you ever tried to clean something without getting a little dusty or exercised without breaking a sweat? How about tried to get somewhere without actually moving? All of these things seem difficult without really getting in there, letting the water cover your hands or the dust fly in your face, taken a brisk walk to increase your heart rate or gone the distance to get to where you need to be.

Point is that we need to get in and get our paws dirty, to really apply ourselves and get involved in order to bring us closer to goals, meet our expectations, or accomplish that as which we would like to. Visualize your plan, see the dirt, plan out your steps and where you need to direct yourself, then get in there, get your paws dirty and drudge up what's underneath...

Get your paws dirty, you can always take a bath and get clean again later...

Before and After

2010-04-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when I'm in line for the grocery store, I get distracted by the magazines on the rack. Lots of headlines and pictures to look at but the ones that get me th most are the ones that say "Before...and...After" combined with pictures pre / post weight loss, plastic surgery, baby delivery, etc. What was different before then from after? It's funny how we can depict before as being the worse picture, or the lesser, and after being better - or vise verse. What if we didn't look at before or after and just lived in the in between?

Makes me think about what it is that happens in between the before and after. For example, yesterday I had my superball...I was sitting int he chair and enjoying the sunshine - then, I didn't have my superball...it fell off of the balcony and into the leaf-less bushes down below. What happened in between? Was I distracted? What was I doing? Why wasn't there a picture to capture what the process was in between.

Take a moment to think about before and after - to then focus in on what happened in between that time to create a difference. Let's try to live in that moment, not looking forward or back but again, living in the present.

Bow your head and Reflect...

2010-04-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend is a very religious holiday that calls apon any and all religions to take a moment and reflect. It does not matter what you call yourself, or where you celebrate your form of worship, it's a time for all to take a moment and reflect. Reflect on the sacrafices others have made before us to shape the path we walk on a daily basis. To take a quiet moment and think about things in the past, cookies we've taken from others without asking, barks that weren't necessary or things we could have done better.

You are a good puppy...remember puppies who have gone before you and appreciate their efforts as well...

BUBBA DAILY

2010-04-01T06:20:00.000-07:00

Due to a change in management, Bubba will now be taking over Hagar Daily...I will be writing on daily occurrences in Bubba's life, instead of what Uncle Hagar usually talks about. Although Hagar Daily is very helpful for most people, Bubba will be funnier and have better stories for you.

SURPRISE...YOU'VE JUST BEEN FOOLED...

April Fools' Day or All Fools' Day is a day celebrated in various countries on April 1, which is today! The day is marked by the commission of hoaxes and other practical jokes of varying sophistication on friends, family members, enemies and neighbors....or sending them on a fool's errand, the aim of which is to embarrass the gullible.

Have fun today, play a little bit and watch out for pranksters!

Hiding our Emotions

2010-03-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever tried to keep in a laugh, or hold back your tears? Stopped yourself from saying what you really want to say? Held back excitement, sadness, anger or fear? These are all very real emotions that can take over our entire body. By holding them in or holding back, we limit the space to which we COULD grow into, we prevent ourselves from feeing and releasing, thus limiting our growth overall.

Let the emotion out, feel the feeling, recognize that your emotions are REAL and need to be expressed. Repressed emotions turn into bitter memories that can eventually hold us back in life. By feeling emotions as they come to us, we release them and allow ourselves to completely BE in the moment, live in the present.

Look closely, even if you're not really good at showing or releasing emotion, we do so subtly even if by wagging our tails...

Keep your Candy Dish FULL!

2010-03-29T06:08:00.001-07:00

There is nothing like the sound of candy pouring into a dish...the clickety clank of the candies as they fill up a bowl inviting people to dig in. Little morsels of goodness that act as a tasty treat to munch on. With each bite brings a little bit of enjoyment and happiness, a little bit of laughter and a feeling of togetherness. We bring out the candy dish during a party, when people come over to visit, we keep it out during holidays to brighten up a room with colors matching the theme of the season. We keep a bowl at our desks encouraging people to stop by and say hello. We offer a little bit of sweetness for others to share in.

What if we think of our life as a big old candy dish? Our lives get filled up with people and things that make us happy, bring a sense of goodness, sweetness, togetherness. We would want our lives to look like what our candy dish looks like, filled up, filled with bright colors, tasty treats and thinks that just make us go mmmmmmm.... Overflowing with goodness, sweetness and happiness. We wouldn't fill up our candy dish with dirt or ashes, bugs or salt or anything else that wouldn't make us feel good, so why fill up our lives with the same things? When we focus on the negative, or do things that aren't good for us, it's like filling up the candy dish with something other than candy.

Fill up your candy dish today with things that make you smile and make your body say YUM! Share some with the puppy...

Hold on...

2010-03-26T06:20:00.000-07:00

'You never know what you've got until it's gone,' or so the saying goes...we can never fully appreciate something until we've gone without it. You don't feel like you make enough money, and then one day you end up making less, or making none - you begin to appreciate that revenue you once had. You neglect a person in your life and then poof, one day they are distanced, you feel regret and start to miss their presence.

Point is, that we need to constantly take a look at all that we have, good and bad...appreciate it for what it is, hold onto it, hold it close. Put your arms around each and everything and every person in your life and hold them tight. It is only when we learn to love and be content with what we have, that we make room for more. When I have my superball, I bark and bat at it, but then when I can't find it, I feel very sad...I try to hold onto my superball as much as possible.

Hold that puppy tight...

Looking too far ahead...

2010-03-25T06:58:00.000-07:00

It’s easy to look out and see what you want in life, to wish, to want to expect. At the same time we can come to feel frustrated with what you have or with where you’re at. Our reactions our ability to accept and to feel content in our everyday lives can be stimulated or affected by what we would rather, what we would prefer. We want to speed up the clocks, obtain more, move to the next level, our time in limbo makes us anxious, we feel sad about how far away something we want might look.

Remember that we are exactly where we are supposed to be, and it is only when we feel content and happy with what we have, where we are is that there will be room for more. Take a look out at what you want, continue to believe in it, to work towards it but be happy with where you’re at. Remind yourself that this is temporary and this too shall pass.

Take 5 deep breaths and hug your puppy tight…

Work, Work, Work...

2010-03-24T06:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I watched the Oscar nominated movie 'Up in the Air,' to which combined a life of work and travel for George Clooney - which on a side note Hagarboy is often compared to for his handsome looks and suave, Casanova-like personality. But anyways, the point is, George worked and flew, flew for work and worked through flight. He didn't have much for relationships, or time to himself, his home was bare and cold. It made me think about work...

If all we do is work, work, work...we can become defined by our computer, by our email account, our fax number our work line. We recite our work address as it is our home address, or maybe our work address is an actual airport. Our personality becomes communicated through emails and documents, budgets and time lines. We are tied to our PDA's our phones and constantly ON-CALL. I say to you, instead of working to work, work to find balance. Go into the office, go hard at what you do, and at a certain time of day shut down, donate your time and energy to the important areas of your life, to you, your loved ones. You will find more reward in both your work life and your personal life.

Without giving away too much of the movie, George tried to find a different avenue away from work and it didn't pan out...he remained defined by his career and travel, his handsome looks were not enough to make him happy, sometimes Hagarboy can, but that's not the point here - we need balance in our lives...take 30 minutes away from the electronic world of work and play superball with your puppy...

Imprisonment

2010-03-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

It is easy to feel trapped in our daily lives. Maybe we feel imprisioned by the amount of money we owe in bills, mortgages, medical expensives. Maybe we feel locked down by our daily responsibilities at work, the routines that we participate in day-in and day-out. From morning until night, we do what is expected, we do what we feel we HAVE to do in order to keep our lives running smoothly. What about an addiction - we can feel trapped because of an addiction we can't seem to break away from...

What do you need to do to get out on parole? What sort of elements can we incorporate into our lives to help us break free? What sort of spontaneity will help free us? Who can we talk to or seek help from to break an addiction? Personally, I try to rely on those around me, I do my downdog an my yoga breathing to help free myself from feeling trapped - what works for you? What could you try to do differently today to help free yourselves from the 4 walls of the cell? Only you can free yourself from the imprisonment you put yourself in - do something different today to break free from behind the bars you confine yourself with.

Today, take a 'get out of jail free' card and use it...try to incorporate it daily into this game of life...

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-17T06:01:00.000-07:00

An Irish Blessing: May the road rise up to meet you. May the wind always be at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face,and rains fall soft upon your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

One thing that seems to get lost now in the modern merriment of a St. Patty's Day celebration is actually remembering St. Patrick himself who is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland. It is said that he drove away the serpents from Ireland, converted people from Paganism, and used the shamrock’s three leaves to represent the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit - life was no easy ride for the guy. History tells us that there really weren't an overabundance of actual 'snakes' in Ireland, and instead the serpent represents the evil spirit living amongst the islanders. Today, there still seems to be such 'serpents' living around all of us, we continue to need the staff of St. Patrick to pound the ground and drive them away!

Today, toast to St. Patrick - ask him to run the serpents out of your life...

Branch Out

2010-03-16T06:05:00.000-07:00

If you think of your life like a tree, you can think of having strong or shallow roots, you can consider whether the core of who you care is full and thick with healthy strong bark, or sort of needing some additional growth - something hasn't been working for us, so we feel dried out and rotted. And how about the branches, some grow tall and thick and long, and some are just short little branches. Maybe these are the lessons we learn or the paths we choose to take.

We've had a full winter of the cold and climate affecting the exterior of our tree, tearing away leaves, and drying up the outside of our appearance, beating into our trunk. Hopefully, we've been digging our roots deep to find nourishment and continual support to strengthen the inside of us. Which branches are the longer, stronger branches - maybe they represent the biggest lessons and the strongest paths we follow. Which are the shorter branches that we can take time to acknowledge their presence without dwelling on it. How about the trees you share space with, are your roots intertwined? Do you need to cut some of the ties or bond closer together with those around you? Consider who you shelter, protect from the elements...all of these things represent who we are.

Take a look the tree that represents who you are....take time and give it a good climb...

Spring Forward!

2010-03-15T06:08:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we had set our clocks an hour ahead. We lost an hour...an hour of sleep, an hour of the day - gone. Did you miss it? Did you notice it was gone? How would you have spent that hour yesterday? Sleeping, cleaning? Maybe meditating or calling a loved one? How about doing some spring cleaning, maybe not just of closets or drawers in our house, but but cleaning out our daily routines of activities that do not benefit us, clearing out junk food from our daily eating regimen and letting go of thoughts that don't promote health in our lives.

Sometimes I don't know that we are actually living in the moment, taking advantage of every hour of every day. It is only when time is gone, we loose an hour, that we start to realize how valuable that time is to us. Our days are going to feel longer now, spring is around the corner for us. Live each hour, each day with intention, fully embracing every single moment, good or bad.

Let's prep the body and continue to embrace each day making our way into the spring....

Stay on top...

2010-03-11T05:37:00.000-08:00

We have talked in the past about reaching our goals, about getting to the top, conquering that steep staircase...but what do we do once we get there? How can we determine that we've made it to our goal safely in a healthy state of mind, and how do we ensure that we stay there. Maybe we've not yet reached our goal and need to do some visualization to help us along our way.

Getting to the top is not the final reward, it's each step that we took along the way to get there. The experience along the way, the 'two steps forward, one step back,' emotions, pitfalls, risings, interactions that make us the best version of ourselves once we get to the top. If you're stuck in the middle of that staircase, close your eyes and envision what it will feel like when you get to the top, see what it will look like, feel the emotion - pretend you're already there. If you're at the top, glance back at all of those steps, remember how each one has helped bring you to where you are.

It's a tall staircase, take a moment to think about the top, getting there and being there...

Walk the Walk...

2010-03-10T05:52:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had a song stuck in your head and found yourself walking to the beat of that song? Maybe you're walking in a parking lot or down a sidewalk and that song pops into your head - you start marching to the beat, you add a little pep into your step and suddenly it feels like you're the main character in a movie and the background music is playing for you!

As Hagarboy pops up and down the sidewalk, I feel like I'm on the runway listening to "Stayn' Alive" by the Bee Gee's. It adds that additional little bounce and I find it sets the tone for the day. My mood is lifted, I smile and take a look around. Whenever my walk feels heavy, is weighted down by stress, anxiety, lack of sleep or worry, I try to play this song in my head while I walk - it helps reset my mood and sets the tone for my day and the way I will interact with people.

Put that song on and walk the walk to guide you through the day...

(Activity: Try humming the Bee Gees while watching this video...)

Just ignore it...

2010-03-09T05:45:00.000-08:00

It's so easy to get overly involved in something that doesn't even pertain to us. It's so easy to react to a comment or a situation that although we may feel involved, doesn't really involve us at all. A family member is going through a situation and you feel the need to help assist in a successful outcome. A coworker directs a rude or negative comment your way. A friend neglects to call or make an attempt to visit for weeks at a time.

These things can begin to take a tole on our energy, on our positive outlook on our everyday activities. We can feel saddened, offended, burdened, angry, etc for these situations that really don't need our attention, yet we feel obligation to get involved with. The best solution is to just ignore, to look the other way, to know that people are on their own path, just as you are on yours, and although they react and experience things that you may feel involve or affect you, they don't. Not an easy task, but with a little bit of practice, a strong breath and foundation, you will realize that it's more about them than about you...let them deal with their own issues as you continue to work on yours.

Ignore it...go find a good cookie with your puppy and look the other way.

Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda....

2010-03-08T06:13:00.000-08:00

Do you have get the "Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda's?" You know, the feeling that you "should" have done something in particular, you "could" have done it or that opportunity was there, or you "would" have done something if the opportunity was just right? I often get the "shoulda, coulda, woulda's" when I have time to relax...you FINALLY get that Sunday with nothing planned, and BOOM, the anxiety begins with feelings of things you should, could or would be doing to prepare for the week or as an alternative to lying on the couch.

How about doing things that you WANT to do at that given moment. Take a long cat nap instead of hitting the gym because your body needs it, watch a good movie in the middle of the afternoon instead of cleaning the house because your mind needs a moment to get lost. Decline the feeling of having to do errands and instead sit a listen to good music. By getting in touch with what we WANT to be doing instead of what we "should" be doing, we are getting in touch with who we really are...

You should be doing something...but instead do what you WANT with your puppy near by...

Takin' a look back...

2010-03-04T06:50:00.000-08:00

Lately I have found myself taking a look back, thinking about old experiences, looking at old photos, remembering events that took place years ago - all the cookies that have come and eaten, the walks, the collars I've worn. I realized it last night after I had a few flashbacks and someone reminded me I was talking about them - they were right, I was talking a lot about past events. I started to tune in and wonder why? I know we often remember situations, some of us even live in the past - something we work to refrain from doing, but why for me so much lately? It's not very Hagar-like...

I guess by taking a look back at certain situation or events, looking at old photos reminds me of what has brought me to where I am today - a great place. It helps me take a look at what was and evaluate how it has shaped who I am. I think it's an important practice to draw appreciation for those around us, where we're at and all that we have gained.

Take a look back, but just a look, don't stay there... appreciate how that has shaped your present...

Smile, you're on Candid Camera

2010-03-03T06:14:00.000-08:00

"Smile...you're on candid camera!" Candid Camera was a hidden Camera television series created and produced by Allen Funt in the 50's. The premise of the show involved concealed cameras filming ordinary people being confronted with unusual situations, sometimes involving trickery, such as trick props, situations, people, etc. When the joke was revealed, victims would be told the shows catch phrase: "Smile, you're on Candid Camera." The humor was behind putting real people in fabricated situations. The humor was watching people realize how silly they had reacted to trick situation that they thought was real. The final shot of their face when they realize drew the most humor.

Hmmmmm...real people in fabricated situations ending with humor. Can't we bring humor into real situations in our daily lives? What if instead of getting all worked up over situations that seem to hold so much weight in our everyday, we said "smile, you're on candid camera" instead? How might that change our reaction? How might that help bring light to a situation that feels dark? Would it make us tune into our reactions? Would we handle things more calmly? Think about it, if you went into a store, knowing that there was a prank being played on you at the register when your credit card wasn't accepted, wouldn't you react with a smile and get cash out, instead of acting out in anger? Who is to say you can't treat every situation with that same feeling.

"Smile, you have just been caught on candid Camera"...Now, laugh at the situation and walk away from it...

Point the paw...

2010-03-02T05:40:00.000-08:00

It's easy to point the paw isn't it? Something goes wrong for us and it's easy to rattle off the excuses as to why, to blame someone or something for the mishap and to put all the weight of the matter onto something other than ourselves. At work, something goes wrong and we have a million reasons as to why it went wrong and why it wasn't our fault. We talk and talk and talk ourselves through the situation the steps that led up to and the situation behind the story.

Instead of wasting breath on what went on that led us to where we're at, let's refocus on where we're at and where we should go from there. Stop putting your energy and focus into the past that led up to, and start putting your positive energy into problem solving or moving forward. Own what happened, regardless of why it happened, and start working toward resolution. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter who did it, why it happened, how it happened, when, or what caused it. Pointing the paw is redirected at you, and the lesson you've learned.

Before you point your paw in another direction, point the paw in the mirror and move on with strength and courage...

Endurance

2010-03-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

When we workout, or exercise, we help build our endurance. To sustain a certain activity for an extended amount of time. Running a long distance, biking a long distance or participating in activities for a certain amount of time, all requires you to remain aerobic - something we have to train for improvement with. We can build and improve our endurance, we can increase the duration of any given activity by continually adding onto our training regimens, getting stronger, more capable to sustain and participate

Endurance doesn't JUST apply to physical activity though - it can also apply to life. The endurance to take on pressure at work, stressful situations without breaking down or loosing control, the endurance to keep going and keep your head up no matter what comes your way. Life isn't easy and we are continually confronted with situations we cannot run away from. We build our internal strength to endure the world around us, becoming stronger, more capable and remaining calm or sustaining a positive outlook.

Work on improving your endurance to keep going!

Watch Dog...

2010-02-24T06:04:00.000-08:00

Hagar can sense danger. Hagar can sense fear in others. Hagar can sense pain, discomfort, stress or happiness. All dogs can...we are watch dogs...we protect and stand beside our person through thick and thin. It is our job and our purpose in life.

But not everyone has Hagarboy I understand, to keep watch over them, to alert when someone or something is a threat, to alert when there is danger or the coast is clear. We must rely on our internal watch dog - our intuition. The sense that we have communicating to use right from wrong, good from bad, safety from danger. Like our watch dog, our intuition can sense danger, fear, pain, discomfort, stress or unhappiness in other people or in a given situation. You have to listen in, trust and let your intuition protect you. If you listen in closely, you will hear the bark from within communicating exactly what you should do or revealing someone or some thing's true colors.

Trust your watch dog...

One step at a time...

2010-02-23T06:14:00.000-08:00

When we set goals for ourselves, it's almost as if we're standing at the bottom of a stair case looking up at a bunch of steps, seeing something at the top that we hope to attain, acquire, overcome or accomplish. We see many steps on our staircase and it can often look like we have ALOT of work to do. We can become overwhelmed, discouraged or frustrated because it seems too hard to get to the top.

If we take one step at a time, focus in on that one step that we're currently on in a present tense, never looking too far up or too far down, we will be able to accomplish what we are hoping for. If we try to take too many steps at a time, we're likely to get tired, sore, tripped up or loose sight of each individual accomplishment. Maybe we take two steps up and then one step down and that's our path, perhaps we need to hold onto the railing to get to that next step or we need someone to join us on a certain amount of steps for support. Each staircase is different, we can't expect each step to be the same as the last...Take each step as it's own and focus, you will eventually get to the top.

Watch Hagar take one step at a time - follow your puppy!

Good to be in Love...

2010-02-22T06:36:00.001-08:00

It's so very good to be in love. To share with someone, to talk with someone, have things in common and just the sheer excitement you feel to hear their voice or see them after a long day. Maybe it's a romantic love, maybe it's a child or parent or puppy...it comes in all different forms.

Sometimes love is hard, sometimes it's easy. Sometimes you see eye-to-eye, other times you seem to be on a different page. Communication, being open, sharing and caring are key to keeping your love strong and lasting. Love teaches us the most valuable lessons if we're open to it - allow yourself to feel loved, be loved and return love to others...

Appreciate your loved ones...

Security Blanket

2010-02-17T05:32:00.000-08:00

When I was a puppy, I had a blankie - it had silkie and was torn in just the right spots. I found myself feeling upset when my blankie wasn't with me, and calm when i had it by my side. My blankie joined me during travels, during meals, in the car, on the couch...just about everywhere. I always could fall asleep knowing my blankie was right along side of me, and had difficulty falling asleep when it wasn't near by...

Now that I'm a little bit older, our society doesn't really accept the thought having and toting around one's torn, and perfectly shredded in all the right places, blankie. We have to have "it" with us mentally. What was it about that piece of fabric that brought a sense of security? Why did we always feel a little bit safer with it by our sides? What can we use in our lives today that makes us feel that same way? Is it our yoga practice? Our breath? A favorite sweatshirt, coffee, food, or an addiction? Let's start by figuring out what has taken the place of that blankie in our lives, and WHY we feel the way we do when it's near to us? Identify the feelings that come up and then begin to evaluate whether or not they are healthy feelings and are feelings that ultimately help improve our lives. If not, it might be time to let go and get rid of it.

Snuggle into that blankie once again with your puppy...

Close your eyes

2010-02-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

Close your eyes....deepen the breath....relax the shoulders down the spine. Feel the muscles become less tense...draw the breath in deeper. Calm the mind, feel the heart beat. Listen into the sound the breath makes.

It is time in high stress or misfortune, our stability can be rocked the most. We can fall off kilter and become misguided, we see ourselves falling into a downward spiral - things feel out of control and 'everything seems to be going wrong.' This is when we need to find center from within. Learning that we cannot control the outside world, but it is the way that we handle and react to things that ultimately defines our own outcome. We need to close our eyes, look within, listen to your intuition, and it starts with lengthening the breath and feeling the chest rise and fall - simple as that.

Open your eyes and feel more centered, ready to get out of the spiral on the up...

Speak your mind...

2010-02-15T06:41:00.000-08:00

Do you have something you would like to say? Something that you feel strongly about and something that is important to you? You might be in a crowd that feels differently though? You might be among your peers who have more experience? You might be young and have not learned everything there is to know on the topic before you speak...right?

WRONG! What you have to say IS important. If others aren't listening to you, speak louder, stand by your thoughts or your message. Even when others don't agree, even when other people argue or don't support your proclamation, stick to it, speak loudly and communicate what it is that you want to say. What you have to say IS important...it could change a current situation, it may help make a shift for the good - you never know. Don't let other intimidate you away from speaking it is what you have to say...

Let your puppy be heard...speak your mind.

Stormy weather ahead...

2010-02-11T06:06:00.000-08:00

The snow hits hard, 10+ inches making it hard to drive, hard to leave the house, the rain comes down making conditions unbearable and impossible to stay dry or warm, it's cold out, the storms' a brewin'. Winds are blowing, the trees are shaking the sky looks dark - there is no end in sight.

When it seems as though we have NO control of the conditions around us, or the storm that takes place in our daily lives, it's important to make preparation within. Make sure you have enough supplies to last you though the storm - do your daily meditation, keep hydrated and fill your body with healthy things that will help you outlast the storm. Ground yourself in who you are, your beliefs, your faith so that you don't get blown away. Stay calm and cool, draw positive energy and white light around you when things are dark and scary - pull your superball near and get ready to face this Storm with confidence, strength and poise.

Honker down with your puppy...this storm will pass and you will be stronger having survived...

Be the passenger...

2010-02-10T06:04:00.000-08:00

When you're in a car, traveling along with someone else as the driver, do you find yourself making comments on how fast or slow that person is driving? Whether or not they are giving adequate space to the car in front or behind? Commenting on the direction they are traveling, nitpicking where they choose to park, judging when they put their turn signal, and all around being a "Back seat driver?"

Sometimes, it's ok just to sit back and enjoy the ride - let go of the control of being the driver of the car and feel the road below you, take a moment to get lost in the scenery around you and just listen to the music. Let them drive...and you can just sit back and relax - the more you try to control the drive, the more likely to create tension within or muster up those control issues making you feel anxious, nervous and out of control. The same goes for life my friend...you are not always the driver - you do not always drive the car on your path - there is a greater power in control. Sit back, relax and take in the scenery - your driver will make sure you get to where you're supposed to go safely, soundly and in a timing that is what is supposed to be...

Buckle up with your puppy and enjoy being the passenger...

Customer Service...

2010-02-09T06:35:00.000-08:00

Do you have a negative customer service experience? How about a positive experience? You walk up to a service counter with an expectation that will either be met, not be met or will exceed what you were hoping for. You call a phone company or work on your computer, need your car serviced and you are NOT treated in the manner you were hoping - it can create frustration, anxiety or even anger.

How can you ensure that you receive the best customer service experience live or over the phone? Make sure you are clear with your expectations, communicate every detail that you are looking for, provide feedback and let your representative know how they are doing. Stay calm, be positive and cheerful, you are likely to benefit more from being in a good place mentally then approaching with anger and on the defense. Remember that customer experience is a two way street so as much as you expect from others, remember to provide in return.

You will receive GOOD customer service today from your puppy...

It is YOUR superball

2010-01-20T06:20:00.000-08:00

You have that one superball...that one thing for the day, the week or for a lifetime that you absolutely cherish. Maybe you're excited to wear a new pair of shoes, you really like a certain belt or there is a part of your daily routine that you really love. Maybe there's even apart of who you are, your personality, that you really have come to enjoy about yourself...So what happens when others try to tarnish or pass judgement or make comments on that one thing.

My mom always says to keep your eggs in your own basket. Protect them so that people can't touch them or break them. Hand all of the eggs out and they're likely to get broken or dropped. If you have that one thing that you love be it an object or not, protect it and keep it safe. Don't let the negativity, sarcasm or judgement of others take away that superball. Share with those who care and love these things about you as they should, and protect from those that cannot see the beauty.

It is YOUR superball, only those with love and joy can share it...

Savasana

2010-01-19T06:07:00.000-08:00

Corpse Pose - a yoga asana or pose often used to begin and conclude a yoga session. It is a relaxing posture intended to rejuvenate one's body, mind and spirit. You allow your whole body to become soft and heavy, letting it relax into the floor. As the body relaxes, you can feel the whole body rising and falling with each breath. When one is in savasana, the body is often in the anabolic state of metabolism during which cells can repair and rejuvenate themselves.

Before you break into the day or at the conclusion of your day, take time to fall into savasana. Lie flat on your back, take your feet out wider than the hips, the arms 5-6 inches away from the body, palms up. close your eyes and surrender into the pose.

Restore today in savasana - it will be your puppy's favorite pose...

Maintenance

2010-01-18T05:43:00.000-08:00

What sort of daily maintenance do you find yourself doing every single day, or once a week, once a month? We clean ourselves daily, we brush our hair and freshen our face every morning. We have to get a bath every couple of weeks when our fur is mangled. Our means of transportation requires maintenance, our bodies and our lives.

Just as important and keeping up with requirement maintenance, we need to take the same care for our relationships with others and the relationships we have with ourselves. Just as we would get our nails trimmed or our oil changed, it is important to call that old friend, to visit a loved one or to sit down and have some alone and quiet time with ourselves. Our internal self needs just as much daily maintenance as the external.

Keeping your up on the maintenance of yourself with your puppy...

Poof....it appears

2010-01-15T07:22:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I wish I had magical powers...that I could just think about what I wanted at any given moment and "POOF" there it is, it appears right before my eyes. I want a cookie, done. I have a cookie. I want a cheese-it? Wah LA! There it is. I didn't have to put in any extra hours, I didn't have to roll over or go outside, do a trick, spend any money, I didn't even have to move. I wanted it and so then it appeared right in front of my eyes. How wonderful that would be...

The reality is, that I AM magical - we DO have magical powers and we just don't think we do. That if we want something, if we think about it hard enough, envision what we really want, there is a "POOF" followed by all that we wanted appearing before our very eyes. What is hard to realize about this, is that the "POOF" might not be instantaneous. It may not happen RIGHT when we expect it but instead, when it is the right time. Our challenge is not to loose that want, to continue to dream it up, to work for it and wait for it...then you will see whatever it is appear magically in front of you.

Keep your eye on Hagar's Super Ball...it will appear for you...

Your path?

2010-01-14T06:03:00.000-08:00

What does your path currently look like? What are the bumps that are affecting your travel? What sort of cracks or divots challenge your balance as you walk down the sidewalk? Is there an obstacle blocking your path? A road closure or sidewalk shut down? Is your sidewalk worn down from too much traffic? Is it time to take a moment and repair the path you're on?

In other words, sometimes our days don't always resemble a newly paved sidewalk free from travel and wide open for us. We have to step over cracks, watch our balance, clear paths that haven't been shoveled, find an alternative route or way of doing things. Take a path / road that you haven't traveled on yet. Sure you could get a little lost, but sooner or later you will find your way and maybe realize that you have a new route to travel that add success to your stride. Maybe it's all about merely slowing down and really taking a look at the path you're on to appreciate the cracks, bumps, pot holes for they help shape who you are.

Take a long look at the path you're traveling..is it right for your puppy?

Money.

2010-01-13T05:53:00.000-08:00

How much is that doggy in the window...woof woof? The one that you've been trying to save for? Is it within your budget? Can you afford it? Have the Holidays strapped you of cash? Trying to make a decision whether you should buy a new cookie you really want or get the new sweater you've been needing for the cold weather?

I know the feeling. I myself have cut back on cookies, rationed out some of my food and worked on saving where I can. You're not alone, and it's OK to ask for help. Sometimes we need a little direction on where we can cut, how we should save or how you better manage your money. Once you recognize where you're really at financially, you can take a look at what is in your budget. By spending money wisely, and saving when you need to, you'll eventually be able to afford that puppy.

Get on the Hagar Budget.

Family Photo time...

2010-01-08T06:48:00.001-08:00

Take a trip down your family lane...pull out all of those family photographs you had a chance to snag over the Holiday or prior to, and check out those doggies that are in your breed. They have a part of you in them, and you have a part of them. We make up one another but yet are very different. We can disagree, have our differences, create healthy boundaries between, but at the same time should appreciate them for who they are as they should us...

We have so much history embedded with our family ties and it's good for us to look at those photos from time to time and appreciate where we came from. Where we came from and who we came from, helps shape who we will be. We can appreciate our past knowing that it has been in some form, an aid to who we are now and beyond.

Sit with your puppy and take a look at all of those family photos...

Get Caught?

2010-01-07T06:24:00.000-08:00

Did you get caught with your paw in the cookie jar? That resolution to eat better, loose puppy pounds and become more active fly out the window today after a confrontation with the snotty bichon frise down the street? Are you sneaking at home when no one is looking? Are you being honest with yourself?

We all falter sometimes, fall off the wagon, splurge or we cheat on our resolution plan. We can cheat ourselves as much as we want in the privacy of our own home because "no one will ever know." Am I right? Yes, and it's not until we get caught that we go back to what we had promised and get back on track.

Avoid getting your hand caught in the cookie jar and be true to you. Honor yourself by keeping to your plan. Reevaluate your plan so that it fits your needs, cravings, weaknesses. You're more likely to set yourself up for success instead of failure...

Get you paw out of the cookie jar!

Snuggie...

2010-01-06T05:46:00.000-08:00

Keeping warm can be difficult. We work in chilled environments to keep heating costs down, our drives are cold because of the time it takes to warm up a vehicle and the gas it uses. We avoid going in to outdoors because a coat doesn't always do the trick. We light a fire, snug into a warm blanket or pull out the old Snuggie to keep us warm. The weather outside is frightful indeed... but why do we have to be un-delightful?

Aside from doing everything we can to keep our bodies warm in cold times, it's also important to remember to warm our hearts as well. How do we do that you ask? By surrounding ourselves with things that bring warmth to our life. Positive people, loving environments that we create where ever we go, sharing the gift of positivity and good energy. Doing things that make us feel good and avoiding things that don't. Turn your snuggie into more than just a luxurious super soft fleece Snuggie blanket...create a 'mental snuggie" and use it to warm your heart...

Wear your love snuggie with your puppy...

Giddie up...

2010-01-05T06:37:00.000-08:00

What are you waiting for? Get on the horse already will you? Get dressed, put your boots on, saddle up and get riding. It's the New Year, what else do you need to get started to trot down that unbeaten path? The trail you've never ridden on...the field you've never galloped in?

Instead of waiting for one big message or the next big paycheck to take your next step, embrace what you have at the moment to help you reach your goals. You don't need a major event to direct you - you know what to do, so do it. Begin that workout regime, start that eating plan, create that budget, make that uncomfortable call you have been putting off, find that career path. No time like the present - and if somethings holding you back, then work to figure out what that is so that can jump right over the hurdle.

Saddle up and get your puppy on the right trail...

Cleanse yourself

2010-01-04T06:29:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to you all! With the new year comes a renewed sense of hope, a new set of standards we can set for ourselves to follow, a fresh start, a new page to turn. What lessons can we take from experiences we had last year, and apply to the beginning of this year. What will we try to do differently? What will we delete from our lives and thoughts and what can we add that will improve it.

The best way to start a new year is with a deep cleanse. Let's let go of what was, without projecting into what might be and start with the here and now. Clean house...clean body, mind and spirit. Fill your body with good foods and thoughts and stop taking in sugar, bad foods, negative people or thoughts.

Take a bath, not literally with your puppy because that would be weird, but cleanse along with him or her mentally and emotionally...

Resolutions

2009-12-21T06:31:00.001-08:00

Every New Year, at the close of the year, New Year's day, New Year's eve, it's tradition to create a few Resolutions. Taking stock over the last year while looking onto the next, what do you want to change or improve upon? What goals would you like to set for yourself or what are some new challenges you'd like to explore? Fears you'd like to conquer?

We still have a little over a week until the official New Year begins, but it's not too soon to start thinking about any resolutions you'd like to start on. Maybe you can start your exercise routine a week early to take the pressure off next week. If you're like the Hagar boy, waking up early to embrace the day might be your resolution and it's not time to start like the present. Whatever it is you resolve to do, make sure it's a small, measurable goal that is realistic to your lifestyle. Start small and work your way up.

Begin your New Year's resolution with your puppy...

Too sensitive...

2009-12-17T06:26:00.000-08:00

Did someone say something that might have hurt your feelings? Do you feel like your efforts are not appreciated by everyone around you? We can sometimes feel let down or hurt by other people, harsh words or negativity. It's easy to take a comment personal or interpret someones lack of compassion as a direct affect of your presence.

Again, put the bell jar on. We are coming into the time of family gatherings and situations where tension can be high, old grudges are revealed and stress can cause people to lash out at you. You hear the phrase "don't take it personal," or "you're too sensitive" which isn't necessarily a bad thing. If you take things personal or are too sensitive, then good for you. The world needs more sensitivity and a care for how actions might affect others. I caution you to remain sensitive, to take it personal but to not let it ruin who you are. It's more about other people and what they are going through and not about you.

Show your sensitive side, feel it, take it personally and let your puppy remind you it's not about you...

Bah...

2009-12-16T05:45:00.000-08:00

What do you when you come in contact with someone who is not only isn't in the Holiday spirit but also isn't in the daily spirit of embracing the day and living with a smile? This could be a family member, a friend, someone you pass along the street or a coworker.

You: "Good Morning!"

Them: "BAH!"

You: "Happy Holidays!"

Them: "BAH!"

You: "Can I interest you in Supo Bah?"

Them: "BAH!"

It's easy to take it personal, to let it affect your day. Put your bell jar around you, the one that keeps your life and love alive and surrounding you, block out their negativity, their bad mood and let them work through whatever it is affecting them.

Keep your spirit alive and around you with your puppy...

Hidden

2009-12-15T13:04:00.000-08:00

Are you hiding from the world? When responsibilities get too heavy and out weigh you, your timing becomes limited while the chore list continues to grow, demands continue to be placed on you...you want to run and hide. I find myself doing this when I'm fearful of the outcome or don't want to do the task at hand. For example, I often hide before I know I'm going to get a bath because I don't like the experience. I hide when I know I have done something wrong or made a mess in the house because I'm fearful of the outcome.

I know how you feel...you want to run and hide, for the world to leave you alone and give you a few moments of peace and silence. To be a puppy again with no responsibilities or daily activities. However, if we just take moment to face our responsibilities head on, we'll be more successful in getting through them! Besides, I'm always clean after my bath, and the mess is always not as bad as it looks. Don't run and hide, take small steps forward and you'll get through it!

Come out from hiding with your puppy...

There is Love

2009-12-07T06:54:00.000-08:00

Have you ever felt so happy that you feel like you're going to explode with laughter? Have you ever actually counted your blessings and run out of fingers to count on, or run out of paper to write them down on? Have you ever been so thank for those around you that you literally feel like you are the luckiest person alive?

It is possible to feel like that, it is possible to experience. It is being thankful for those around you and seeing each person with all of their beauty and what have they have meant to you in your life. There are so many special people in your life, and if you stop to take a look at each one of them, you WILL feel this same way. Cherish their words, their affect on your life, honor and serve as you are intended to do in life and be grateful for being brought together with one another.

Keep lovin' the other puppies...

Untangle yourself

2009-12-04T06:59:00.000-08:00

To tangle or to be tangled is to be twisted together or entwine into a confusing mass...sometimes our lives can feel a bit tangled. If we have alot going on, if we feel unorganized or we are going in too many different directions at once, traveling in a circle around about and through through again. We get knotted, we feel stuck, frustration rises and moods shift. If only we would take a little time to untangle ourselves, arrange things in a straight line, to slow down and exhibit a little patience, we would become ungantled, our lights would click on and we are able to glow!

It's December... and I can't emphasize enough how busy this time of year can be. I reference hanging lights as a metaphor to how we can come to feel in the oncoming days. Tangled, burnt out, a heap on the floor needing to be untangle, needing direction and some organization. Take the time now to focus on one task, tend to one bulb, undo one knot so that you can arrange your strand (aka your life) in a straight line and keep your light on and bright all season long.

Untangle your puppy...

Beware of Dog

2009-12-03T06:33:00.000-08:00

Do you ever feel like you need a sign to warn people of your current state of being? Maybe you celebrated something wonderful the night before that caused the current morning / day to begin a little bit more slowly for you. Maybe you need a few minutes of quiet time before breaking into song or dance. Maybe you need you need to roll around on the floor and lie still for a moment before getting up to embrace the day... it's almost like we need a sign "beware of dog" or "beware of slow going," "beware of not feeling so chatty."

It's easy to take our lack of enthusiasm for the day, out on those around us without meaning to do so. We might snarl or bite at someone even though it's not their fault we're not feeling into the day. When I feel like this, and I know I am just needing some more Hagar time, I try to keep my growling to myself and instead react in a more silent manner until I am feeling better... that way, it's easier to ease into the day and with a few hours, I'm feeling back to being myself.

Today, beware of puppy....

Age is Beauty....

2009-12-02T06:37:00.000-08:00

Each year we add an age to our length of life. The web definition of the word age spans from being a description of how long something has existed; a time of life (usually defined in years) at which some particular qualification or power arisessenesce: grow old or older; to being of old age: a late time of life...

Some of us might ignore our age, as if it were the big white fluffy duck in the room. it's there, we ALL know it's there, we all know what it looks like, what it sounds like, but we don't acknowledge it for what it means, we might not embrace that duck for all that it gives us. For with age brings beauty. With each year, I look more handsome as a puppy...with each year, I learn more, I become more wise and learn from mistakes. I look forward to growing older with grace and poise - with out botox or plastic surgery try to defy what will come with my age. Each year, everyday, it seems that life gets better and better.

Celebrate your age with your puppy...

Lend a Helping paw...

2009-12-01T05:53:00.000-08:00

Tis' the season of giving, it's true...but let's define what sort of "giving" we should expect of ourselves this year. It is really easy to feel like we need to spend lots of money and purchase gifts and presents to hand out to all of our friends and loved ones. Taking advantage of door-buster deals, and overspending on trinkets, bells and whistles to offer up as a sign of our love. And how about those puppies who are in need - shouldn't we be buying gadgets and necessities for those who have less?

With so much giving to be done, it can become a bit stressful financially and take away from our own enjoyment. Maybe we're in a financial place that has limited the amount of money we can actually spend...how can we continue to give this season??

Let's try to move this spirit of giving away from material goods. What if we offer our time, effort and services to those around us. Assist someone with putting up their decorations, lend a helping had to someone who needs it, donate your time at a shelter or offer a listening ear and support to someone feeling blue. By being of service to someone, we are truly in the spirit of giving from the heart.

This Holiday season, lend a helping paw with your puppy...

Ready to GO!

2009-11-30T07:19:00.000-08:00

I always take the week before Thanksgiving off from work...every year, I observe the 3 days before the Holiday for me! All Hagar all of the time. I don't go anywhere, I watch some movies, I decorate my house, I relocate hidden cookies. I do some yoga, get a puppy massage, and really enjoy some quality time with rest and relaxation. I get to see my family and eat the scraps of a wonderful tofurkey meal.

When I return from the busy holiday, the Monday AFTER Thanksgiving, I am ready to go! This is such a time of year that demands rest from our bodies, taking some time prior to getting lost in the craze, can help ramp up our energy, strengthen our immunity and keep our spirits lifted! If you didn't take last week off, take a day or two in the next coming weeks - you will notice the benefit of doing so!

Stay charged with Hagar...

Rushing again

2009-11-20T06:23:00.000-08:00

Last night in my yoga class, it seemed like everyone was moving so fast...the flow was fast, the movements were hurried and it took everything in my power to slow things down. I went into down dog and felt like I couldn't stay there...the time I spent in child's pose felt limited. What is making me feel like I'm in such a rush? Is it the season? Is it the quickly approaching Holiday and all that I am expected to do? I referenced back to my October blog Slow Down! and remember to question "what IS all the hurry anyway?'

Notice what happens when we rush through things...if we eat too fast, we can choke or feel sick...if we rush through a project, it gets messy and can end up being incomplete...driving fast causes accidents, talking fast creates anxiety, trying to work too fast at our jobs elevates the likelihood of errors... With so much negative associated with being in a rush, why do we continue to do it? Maybe it's society that pressures us, maybe it's us that puts the pressure on ourselves. Either way, becoming aware of the speed at which we do things is the first step to slowing down, creating an appreciation for things, taking in our surroundings, listening, smelling, soaking it in and ultimately learning to enjoy and live in each moment.

Again, slow down with your puppy...

Adventure

2009-11-19T05:50:00.000-08:00

It is a rainy morning this Thursday and I was irritated to have to get my paws wet while I went outside. I wanted to crawl back into bed, which luckily since I am a puppy and don't have a real job, can do once everyone leaves...Although I am feeling like a sluggish puppy, I remember the importance of creating my own adventure everyday. Each day, I have an adventure with my superball, how fast can I swat it across the room, where will I hide my cookie today? How long will I wrestle with my ducky-toy today?

Listen to Hagar. Look at me as I tell you what you should do. Create your own adventure every single day. Add an element of excitement to your day by looking forward to a special coffee today, or treat yourself to a cookie, call an old friend, plan a mini-outing after your workday. Your adventure could be taking me for a long walk int he rain and then drying everyone off including yourself. Your adventure could be watching your favorite TV show tonight, or renting a movie. Put on some great music and read in your PJ's - or get into your PJ's early and pretend you're in a fancy hotel for the night. Have some appetizers as your dinner, or tackle a long put off project.

Create an adventure with your puppy...

Roll with the punches

2009-11-18T06:22:00.000-08:00

It's so easy to take something personally...it's so easy to let somebody's bad mood, bad day or even bad life impact your mood or your day. Just because someone feels the need to shed their negative energy onto your light, doesn't mean you need to absorb it. Learn to roll with the punches, to be unaffected, to let things roll off your back, be rubber and not glue and go along with the flow. Try to remember that it's not WHAT happens in our daily lives and how bad a situation can be, but how YOU react to, that will really determine the severity of the situation. Picture yourself in an inflatable tube floating down the river, let the river bend and weave while you continue to just float along...if you try to kick your legs and arms, it will only make you tired as you cannot control the strength of the current of the river...

This is something that even I, Hagarboy, struggle with too - to let the river take me, to roll with the punches. When another doggie nips at me, or growls or barks at me, I take it personally and can sometimes feel sad - I can let it get to me...but I remind myself that if I continue to wiggle my tail and be friendly, and smile the situation will not interrupt my day. I might even have a positive impact on that other puppy...

Roll along, floate along and be unaffected with your puppy...

Dinner Plans

2009-11-17T06:38:00.000-08:00

So often in our Western Culture, we take for granted having a nice sit down dinner. The hustle and bustle of our lives has forced us to do fast food, drive thru's, working dinners, skipping dinners, or dinner in front of the Television. For me, dinner is a time to come together at the end of the day, recap the day, talk through what I will be doing the following day or week and reconnect with myself while I nourish my body - refuel the furnace.

Make a festive dinner, pretend you're on a cooking show and making a fabulous dish. Set the table and call everyone together to sit and listen to music while you enjoy a non-celebration, celebration. We don't need a reason to have a nice dinner. It doesn't have to be a holiday to put out the nice china. Create a little bit of joy in what may seem like an average evening. Enjoy your loved ones and add a little bit of excitement throughout the week to keep your spirits up and your intuition sharp.

Eat dinner with your puppy...

Where are you going?

2009-11-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

Doesn't it sometimes feel like we're always going, going, going? Going where? Going why? Are we running or searching? Is it something that is meant to be and just happen or are we forcing it? My mom has reminded me about how my Grandma would always wish for a new house. That all of her money issues, job worries, whatever, would go away if they had a new house... The reality is that "wherever you go, there you are." Plain and simple. You pack all your bags and baggage and take it with you. Moving, or going to a new location isn't necessarily going to solve our problems - sure maybe sometimes we all need a fresh start but how do you know when it's right?

I don't really have the answers to those sorts of questions but I know in order to tell the difference, make the right decision, or have the clarity to recognize what our next steps are, is to center yourself and get in touch with your intuition - the inner-sence and that force that guides us. Lie still and calm and quiet - breath deeply and close your eyes, clear your thoughts and allow yourself to tune in. Your intuition will guide you in the right direction and where to go.

Go there with your puppy...

Different Point of View...

2009-11-10T17:14:00.000-08:00

Step away from the situation, take a breather, look at something from a different point of view. We are all faced with situations, projects, discussions, interactions, possible confrontations, misunderstandings, or miscommunication that can really add unnecessary complication or stress to our lives. It can create tension or angry feelings towards other and make our whole body tense up. What if, instead of reacting right away or being stubborn in your own way of thought, but instead, what if you tried to take a look from a different point of view? Instead of reacting, we retain for a moment and consider what is really going on.

I often think of dysfunctional dogs and wonder why everyone can't be like the Hagarboy...why the doggies down the stairs bark all of the time, why Bubba gets mad at the dog next door and you always have to say "no, no Bubba." ...why Malia is such a horrible house guest and eats so much... Before I react against our differences, I try to take a look from a different point of view. Maybe the dogs downstairs need to be listened to, maybe the dog next door hurt Bubba's feelings or maybe Malia is just spoiled and it's not her fault.

Either way, you need to take time to consider the alternative, give the benefit of the doubt and accept people for their differences. Take a step back from the situation, consider their experiences have shaped others as yours has you.

Take a different point of view with your puppy...