Eli's Dog Log

Market Your Messed Up Past

2010-11-11T16:35:00.009-05:00

Yesterday, my mom posted an article about our favorite salon, Mark Garrison Salon, on the New York Celebrity Dog Examiner. In the article, she mentioned some of her horror stories from other hair salons. She didn’t want to tell the worst story publicly, so she instead included the story in an email she sent to some of her friends, announcing the article. Here is what she wrote:

“This one is kind of funny – check out the photo of me and Eli at the salon. I was tempted to include the story about my first experience (at age 14) with a stylist who had just been served divorce papers, was drunk, told me he loved me, kissed me, then yelled the “F word” and was rushed to the emergency room because he had cut himself with the scissors. But I decided against it…"

See Examiner Article Here

A few minutes later, one of her friends responded that she was casting for a web series to be interviewed by a famous TV celebrity for this Saturday. (We can't say who just yet!) As a result of my mom’s nutty stories, she was chosen to be included in the shoot. How fun!

What is the lesson in all this? There is no incident in life that is just bad – anything can be turned around and used into the fuel to create something new. Market your messed up past – all those stories can be turned into interesting works of art, and in some cases, gems!

Eli on Exhibit at CPW25 Gallery

2010-06-12T17:49:00.003-04:00

Photo: Monika Sziladi

Photographer Keith Lew so kindly posted on my wall on Facebook that he saw me in a photograph on exhibit at the "Stranger than Fiction" 2010 Yale Photo MFA Thesis Show at CPW25 Gallery. Today, we stopped by the gallery to check it out. I believe this was taken last year at a Fashion Event at Manhattan Motorcars while my mom was waiting in line to pay for a drink. (I think she wore that dress that day!) The photo was taken by Monika Sziladi and was a PDN Photo of the Day earlier this week. It makes me wonder where else I may be on exhibit, unbeknownst to me. Life sure can be interesting at times! You can see our Examiner coverage of the exhibit here.

Another fun day!

2010-05-22T23:27:00.003-04:00

Today I went to the NYC Pet Show and the Adoptapalooza and had so much fun! I decided to enter the costume contest wearing my Michael Jackson outfit, and I won. I even got to meet Tinsley Mortimer from High Society, who also has two chihuahuas. If you would like to see my coverage of both events, check out my Examiner article. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Serge Strosberg Opening

2010-05-21T19:39:00.006-04:00

Eli in front of his Serge Strosberg Sketch

Last night I went to the opening of Serge Strosberg's NYC Amazons, and was quite surprised to see a sketch of myself on the wall! We had a wonderful time seeing friends of all kinds - from photographers to artists to models to TV personalities. I would like to recommend Serge as a wonderful artist to have your portrait done, with or without your pet. If you would like to see more about Serge, check out my Examiner coverage of the event.

Coverage of "Save the Eggs" and other cancer fundraisers

2010-05-19T11:17:00.005-04:00

Eli with Jen Marden

Please check out my latest Examiner article on celebrity fundraising to combat cancer. There are a lot of great ways to help combat cancer in both canines and humans - let's get to work and help eradicate this disease!

Beth Stern, Montel and Lorenzo Borghese

2010-05-14T10:55:00.009-04:00

Beth Ostrosky Stern holding me at her book signing

Whew, it has been one busy week for me. On Monday, I went Beth Ostrosky Stern's book signing for "Oh My Dog", where I got to meet characters from the Howard Stern Show, including High Pitch Eric, Mariann from Brooklyn, Double A and Eddie the Produce Guy. They were all very fun and loved dogs. If you want to see my coverage of the event, check out my New York Celebrity Dog Examiner column.

I have also been busy writing other product reviews for Lorenzo Borghese's Royal Pet Club products and Montel's DogPedic Sleeping System. You can see my articles at the links below:

Royal Pet Club Examiner article

Montel's DogPedic Sleeping System

Today I am helping my mom switch her closet from fall/winter to spring/summer wardrobe. The weekend should be fun - there are several dog events and shopping events for humans too that we are considering. I hope everybody has fun!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T17:30:00.003-04:00

Photo: Arthur Eisenberg

In tribute to my mother-in-law Ada, I started to write an article about her and all she has done to make my life so much better. In the process, I ended up writing about several dog moms in New York who do a wonderful job taking care of their celebrity dogs and others in our community. Being a dog mom takes a lot of work, and we all deserve some special recognition. Happy Mother's Day to everybody! If you would like to check out my article, click here.

New York Celebrity Dog Examiner

2010-05-07T17:04:00.004-04:00

Eli in his writing clothes (Photo: Ronnie Schultz)

Just a very short blog entry to let you know that due to some nice comments I received on my blog, I decided to apply to write for the New York Examiner. I am happy to report that I was accepted and am now working as the New York Celebrity Dog Examiner! I can only write in the third person on the Examiner, and can't focus too much on myself and my experiences, so I will be sure to check back here on occasion to share my views and philosphies when I have time. Meanwhile, check out my column on preparing for beauty pageants and review of Bark for Life on the Examiner. Thank you for following me! - Eli

Bark for Life

2010-05-02T14:31:00.026-04:00

Eli with Rescue Ink at Bark for Life

Today I had the pleasure of participating in the American Cancer Society's Bark for Life Dogwalk held in Riverside Park. The ceremony began with an opening presentation by Speaker Christine Quinn from the New York City Council, followed by a welcome from Sophia Gaines of the American Cancer Society. After cancer survivors Sawyer and Shannon performed the ribbon cutting ceremony, we began our walk. I only participated in the first lap around the park, but there were apparently three more walks on the schedule, each with a different theme. Instead, I walked from vendor to vendor, greeting friends from West Side Vets, Feron Portraits, Joseph Frazz Pet Photographer, Fido Friendly Magazine, and Animal Medical Center, to name a few. The highlight of the day was running into Cinnabon and my wife Vanilla, who looked beautiful as ever in her Ada Nieves dress. It was also nice to meet Kristyn Noren, one of the event organizers, who thanked me for raising $3176.76 this year. (Yes, that's the spirit!) I had several photos taken with the members of Rescue Ink, who were there to judge the contest and sponsor the event. I happened to have a black leather jacket with me, so we decided to enter the Look Alike Contest, which we ended up winning! (I guess it's no surprise that the members of Rescue Ink like leather.) We also ran into Maria Milito from Q104.3, Dr. Jeff Levy, Leslie Hughes, host of the Barking Beauty Pageant who sang the opening anthem, Bocker the Labradoodle, Pet Expert Charlotte Reed, Brad Kramer (Street Treats), up and coming doggie designer Roberto Negrin, and several other friends from the dog meetup groups and Facebook.

Eli after winning the Look Alike Contest

Va-room, va-room!

If you were not able to participate this year, you should consider coming next year. We have participated in this walk every year since 2006 and have always had a wonderful time. As of now, over $80,000 has been raised for the American Cancer Society, but donations are being accepted until the end of May. If you would like to sponsor me and help the American Cancer Society reach their goal of $123,000, you can do so here.

Craig's List

2010-04-29T13:17:00.025-04:00

Eli with Craig Newmark
Photo: Wendy Diamond

Every once in a while something happens that is so synchronistic that it gives me chills, as if a higher power is at work. Such was the case last night at the White House Pet Correspondents Benefit for the Washington Animal Rescue League when host and author Wendy Diamond asked me to be photographed with Craig Newmark. I was told he was the founder of craigslist and was truly amazed, for it was through his site that I met my owner. For years, when people have questioned the posting of dogs needing homes on craigslist, I have always responded "I found my owner that way, so great things can come of it!" After all these years, I finally had the opportunity to thank Craig, the man responsible for helping me find my home. He was personable, down to earth, and clearly well-intentioned, and was honest about the origin of his creation, giving credit to those who helped him design the site. This impressed me all the more. He was touched to hear how he had affected my life.

Today I am on the DC CBS news site in the arms of the man who helped me find love. I have a tear in my eye as I write, for it was also through being interviewed on CBS News in New York that I gained publicity to help win the MilkBone contest and landed being on the cover of the small dog biscuit box. Every incident in life is interwoven with meaning, more than we can often see, and for this I am grateful. Thank you, Craig, for helping me find the perfect love for me. You have affected more than you will ever know. In fact, your list is endless.

Make Your Vocation your Vacation

2010-04-24T11:28:00.016-04:00

Eli hiking in Central Park: Photo by Fran Reisner

It's always a good idea to remember to do things that relax you, like walking in the park, getting outside to sniff the scents of nature, playing with squeaky toys, and eating your favorite snacky-snacks. Sometimes you can even "make your vocation your vacation", as I did recently during a photo shoot for an upcoming book project. Although I modeled several styles of fashion, I got to do so in northern Central Park in an area with hiking trails and small waterfalls, and I left the shoot feeling relaxed and satisfied. I encourage you to find ways to support yourself doing things that inspire and energize you the same way as when you are on vacation. It is easy to get out of bed when you are doing things you enjoy!

Relaxing by a waterfall in Central Park: Photo by Fran Reisner

Smile, you are on the right path!

2010-04-21T12:46:00.016-04:00

Eli in Harper's Bazaar, April 2010

The other day, my uncle's girlfriend was getting her hair done at a salon in California, when she saw my Bloomingdales ad in Harper's Bazaar. I had no idea I was there! It just goes to show that we are all accomplishing a lot more than we realize. We can't always see the fruits of our labor, or the impact we are having on others. It is my mission to make people smile, so this ad feels special to me.

A few days earlier, I had received a package in the mail from Bloomingdales. When I opened it, I had no idea what it could be. Inside was a camera and a note congratulating me on winning the Bloomingdales Smile Sweepstakes. My owner had submitted my photo in an online contest in March and had completetely forgotten about it. As a result, she now has another device to photograph and videotape me, yet another opportunity to make others smile.

What we perceive to be luck is often just the manifestation of our desires and goals into concrete form. Don't ever think that you have been given something for free or by luck. You put energy into your dreams and goals, and in time it pays off, sometimes when you are least expecting it. Come to think of it, I was probably napping when the magazine was found and when the camera was sent. We all need time to dream in order to create our mission on earth.

Dreaming of heaven on earth in my star bed

"Leashes and Lovers": great events, now a great book!

2010-03-31T10:34:00.035-04:00

Eli with Dog Expert Sheryl Matthys

Photo: MyDogWalks

Photo: Matt Wayne

Last night, I attended the “Leashes and Lovers” book launch party at Boulevard, hosted by Dog Expert and author Sheryl Matthys, and had a wonderful time! There was a red carpet for pups, a catwalk parade where pooches got to show off their outfits escorted by the lovely Tall Outstanding Women, lots of treats for dogs and humans including yummy s'more smoochies, discounted drinks for humans, raffles, and music by recording artist Toby Lightman. I had a great time, despite being embarrassed by my mommy making me do tricks to commands she sung in her opera voice followed by singing love songs into my ear during a shoot for a dogumentary. We picked up a signed copy of the book, which was available for purchase at the event. Of course, my mom went right to the part about me, and was pleased to see that it came out well. She read the entire book today and was delighted by all the stories and advice for dog owners, particularly with regard to letting us assist you in your decision making process and leading you to a happier and more fulfilling life. The book is rife with cute anecdotes and heart warming stories demonstrating the wisdom of dogs, including several about Shiraz, the author’s greyhound who has a special talent for sensing trouble in others and healing them or, and some cases, calling for help. That is what we are here for – to teach others to follow their inner voice and intuition and to live in the moment, freed from the constraints of the human mind. The book is insightful and psychologically sound, clearly inspired by a connection to spirit, love, God, and Dog! I highly recommend it – you will feel warm and cozy inside and want to snuggle with your significant other pup. Click here to order your copy now!

Speak softly and carry a five pound Chihuahua

2010-03-24T17:45:00.013-04:00

Carmen and Escamillo - photo by Jo Lance

My owner used to be an opera singer, and always feared auditions most of all, because of the pressure to perform on the spot. That kind of singing is difficult, and is influenced by how you feel that day, which affects your instrument. Colds, coughs, allergies, drinking milk products, eating peanuts, even hormonal fluctuations can affect your ability to sing. She would go into auditions worrying about every little thing that could go wrong. No matter what she did, or how good she got, there was always somebody in that environment critical enough to knock her down. It just stopped being fun, and she lost the calling. Then I came along, a five pound chihuahua that helped her find her real passion - me!

Today she went to an audition for a commercial for a major product. She was not scared, she wasn't shaking, and her voice didn't tremble. Why? Because she had been asked to answer questions about her passion for me! During the debut of a new opera at San Francisco Conservatory Opera years ago, she had to pour tea for other people during a scene, and the cups and saucers were trembling like a 3 pound Chihuahua as she passed them to the other cast members. Today, however, she held boxes, magazines, a calendar and pictures of me with steady hands, as she talked about all my work and her passion for promoting me. She had a great time, because it is a topic she truly enjoys.

My grandpop once said that it was too bad she couldn't carry me out on stage when she sang opera. It's a funny comment, but kind of misses the point. Her passion is about me, and now about TV and film, as I taught her. She knew she was a performer, but it took me to teach her what kind. We would go to dog events together, where there were film crews, and as a result, she discovered that being on film was something she truly loved. She did always enjoy wearing costumes and being on stage, and with me by her side, she gets to do that, without the pressure of trying to please conductors and directors. It's a funny thing - when you are doing what you love, people respond and you are more likely to get the parts you seek. Directors and casting agents always respond well to her now, and she has not had one bad audition or interview, now that she found her love! As they say - "Do what you love, and love what you do" (or doo-doo, as sometimes is the case. Teehee.)

Great for Dames!

2010-03-19T16:07:00.016-04:00

Just a quick entry to recommend yet another amazing product that I have discovered - one that would be suitable for all who love to have their pooch along at events, including those that don't allow dogs. I have always found it disheartening when dogs are not welcome at dog fundraisers, but now there is a solution: you can carry a purse with your pup on it, beautifully designed by Great Dames Designs for the Well-Heeled by Kate Erin Lee. My owner goes to a lot of non-dog related fundraisers these days, and she will gladly tote this along. It is the most fashionable purse she owns, one she will carry close to her heart, because she will now feel my presence everywhere she goes. Imagine how handsome your dog, cat, hamster, gerbil, bird, turtle, lizard, horse or pet of any kind would look on this purse! There are several styles of purses to choose from too. For more information, go to Great Dames Designs for the Well-Heeled by Kate Erin Lee.

My owner, Karen Biehl, wearing my purse at the Cancer Research
Institute Spring into Style Fundraiser at Saks, March 25, 2010
Photo: Steven Rosen Photography

What makes you smile?

2010-03-13T14:34:00.018-05:00

Bloomingdales Spring 2010 Catalogue

At last, the Bloomingdales catalogue I posed for last October is out - the "Hot, Ready, Set, Smile!" spring catalogue, which can be found in Bloomingdales department stores across the nation. The shoot took me all day, so I am happy to see that they included five pictures of me in the spread. Yes, it was tiring, but I felt very loved during the shoot and was fed a lot of turkey. I only get turkey when I work, which is a tip for other pups: make your work as fun as possible! As a result, I ended up on Bloomingdales website on their sunglasses page and on their "What Makes You Smile?" page (click on "Events" to see me). The model I posed with was very happy during the shoot too, was very kind and clearly loves her work. Happiness is a key to success! I am so glad to be able to bring joy to others when they see my photos.

Help Dr. Eli Cure Cancer

2010-02-28T16:59:00.008-05:00

On May 2, 2010, I will once again be participating in The American Cancer Society's Dogswalk Against Cancer. As a participant in this event I can help make a difference in the lives of our friends, families, co-workers, neighbors, and of course... our beloved animals! But I cannot do it without your help.

I have done this walk for 4 years now, and have raised over $6000 to this cause. I hope to raise at least another $1000 this year. I understand that times are ruff, and there are many important causes to support now, but would appreciate any donations to help this cause. The money I raise will benefit Animal Medical Center cancer research as well as the American Cancer Society.

Together, we can make a difference!

Support me in curing cancer by sponsoring me here

Gee, your fur smells terrific!

2010-02-23T14:18:00.048-05:00

Photo: Royal Pet Club

The other day I had a shoot with a photographer for a project she is working on. In between takes, she picked me up and cuddled me and commented on how good I smelled. I had not had a bath in over a month, so I was not sure why, then I remembered that since I have been using Royal Pet Club’s products, my fur smells terrific!

It all started last summer when I filmed for Lorenzo Borghese’s web series “America’s Next Top Dog: The Princess”, playing the role of Heidi Hills, a narcissistic Chihuahua vying for the love of Bachelor Bond. As a thank you for my work, I was given an assortment of shampoos, conditioners and wipes created by Lorenzo’s company, Royal Pet Club. I was very resistant to trying a new product, because I have sensitive skin and have always used a special oatmeal shampoo and conditioner recommended by my vet. In the past, every time I tried a different shampoo, my skin had reacted badly, but I decided to try Royal Pet Club’s Virgin Italian Olive Oil Shampoo and Honey & Oatmeal Organic Conditioner and hope for the best. Well, was I pleasantly surprised! My coat was smooth and sleek, as never before, and gee, my fur smelled terrific! I have been using a combination of the two ever since, and keep getting compliments.

On the set with Lorenzo and Bond, Photo: TV Guide Network

I recommend these products very highly! As a model and actor, it is important that my coat is sleek and shiny, and this combination ensures that this is always the case. The best part is the ingredients are organic, so I am assured that my skin is naturally well cared for, without the harsh chemicals that bothered me in the past. I give Royal Pet Club 10 paws for creating the best fur regimen for dogs on the market!

Try it out for yourself and see! It even works if your hair is pink!

Photo: Royal Pet Club

About cropped heads

2010-02-22T11:28:00.034-05:00

New York Times, February 11, 2010

Whenever I go to events, I tend to be photographed a lot, because of the way I dress, which is considered by some to be unusual attire for a dog. Although I often end up in the press, I never assume that I will just because pictures are taken. You never know what a publication has in mind when they post articles and photos. I have had photos taken at one event end up in coverage for a different event. I have had photos end up in the trash bin. And I have had photos show up in the press over a year after they were taken. It’s best not to take anything personally, even being misquoted or having your photos used in a negative way.

Recently I attended Wendy Diamond’s Yappy Hour and book launch party, where a photographer for the New York Times followed me around for much of the event, taking photos of my every move. As I suspected I would, I ended up in the Times, but my mom’s head was cut off. She didn’t mind at all, because she understands that the piece was about dogs, not humans. (She also knows that I am cuter than her.)

But the funny thing is it oftentimes evens out in the end. A few days later, after being photographed by the New Yorker at Skybark’s Pre-Westminster Fashion Show, my mom showed up in their photo coverage of the event, and I was left out, even though she was mentioned as my owner. Not only that, they chose a photo of my mom kneeling on the floor drinking water, which she had done in the middle of a coughing fit. We both find it really amusing that of all the photos they took of us, this is what they included. We are not sure what the point of the photo is, but neither of us takes offense. We are happy to see each other in print, and always get a kick out of seeing what the media will spin next.

The New Yorker, February 2010

If you have a positive attitude about having photos taken, you will more likely focus on the positive side of the press and will be glad when you do end up in print, regardless of circumstances. As with anything in life, the more you appreciate the successes, the more of them you will have. You will also be happier. Isn’t that what life is about?

Photo: Arthur Eisenberg

All Wiggles over Wiggles Wigs!

2010-02-16T15:40:00.062-05:00

Photo: Ninoska Carolina Gutierrez Viggiano

Photo: Byron H

Today I had the pleasure of talking on the phone with Ruth Regina, the designer of Wiggles Dog Wigs. My friend Ada Nieves had suggested I call her to tell her how much I enjoyed modeling her wigs at the Skybark Pre-Westminster Fashion Show last Friday. I wasn’t sure if she would be receptive to a total stranger calling her, but Ada said she would love to hear from us, and, boy, was she right! She was thrilled when I told her that her wigs had been reviewed on Funny Business with Jane Wells on CNBC . I also mentioned that I had just had a photo shoot modeling her wigs and was also filmed for TV on the runway at the fashion show. She was so happy that she will be sending me some special wigs to wear at events. And what an interesting lady she is! She created wigs for the Ed Sullivan Show and the Jackie Gleason Show, and has made wigs for Demi Moore Films, Pamela Anderson, J Lo, Al Pacino and seven presidents of the United States. She is an 8th generation wig maker too – what a lineage! Despite all her success and connections, she is as down to earth and sweet as you can imagine, and spent over five minutes on the phone with me, so pleased to hear how much I liked her wigs. I promised her I would wear her wigs on the red carpet at future events and have photos taken, which I would of course send to her, along with photos from yesterday’s shoot.

So, dogs and humans, if you ever need a wig, I recommend hers very highly. For the first time wearing a wig, my ears fit perfectly in the ear holes, and the color matches my fur so it looks like my real hair. (No “Hair Club for Chihuahuas” or cheap toupee look with these wigs!) These wigs are truly amazing, and made with love - I give them 20 paws! Human wigs are custom made and can be ordered from Ruth Regina Wigs.

Ruth was truly an inspiration to me. Regardless of how far you go, it is important to keep your humility and sense of wonder about life. Always remember not to treat anybody as if they are less than you or more than you. We all poop and pee, even celebrities!

Photo: Dog Channel

Step aside, Fashion Week, here come the dog models!

2010-02-15T19:06:00.034-05:00

Human celebrity models and actors get all the press, all the money, all the glory. Canine film actors, who work just as hard, are often uncredited in the imdb, and chances are they will be scooted off red carpets, even at fundraising events for dogs. But Friday night at the Skybark Pre-Westminster Fashion Show and Golden Paw Awards, the stars were the dogs! The event, held at the Pennsylvania Hotel PennTop Ballroom, began with a red carpet which welcomed all guests, regardless of celebrity status or species. Pup attendees were followed by TV crews and photographers everywhere they went, while celebrity dogs arrived in limos. Whether the budget was $20 for an eBay frock, several hundred dollars for a couture creation, or thousands of dollars for an I Love Dogs Diamonds doggy collar, doggies were well dressed in every price category. The room, which was lined with vendors showcasing the finest in canine couture and cuisine, was dog-friendly to the point of including relief stations for pooches, wonderful sod grass PetaPotties which pups sniffed and marked with delight. (No having to hold it while humans enjoyed themselves at this event!) There was a doggy-level BarkBar with Honest Kitchen drinks elegantly served in martini glasses. Jilli Dog the famous poker-playing Yorkshire terrier entertained guests.

But the main event was the fashion show, which featured the dogs modeling fairytale-like creations by top canine designers, including Ada Nieves for Dogs and Bitch New York, topped with wigs by Wiggles . The dog models included canine socialites Cubby and Ginger, Andrew and owner Laurie Williams, Jilli Dog, Bocker the Labradoodle and Eli the Chihuahua. Other canine models were escorted by the cast of Animal Planet's Underdog to Wonderdog - Andrea Arden, Ali McLennan, and David Leon; Westminster's host, David Frei; dog whisperer Janice Wolfe and Celebrity Magician Matt Wayne. The awards ceremony recognized dogs such as Preston and Cuba, for all their hard work in modeling, acting and fundraising, handed over by last year's celebrity dog winners. Beth Ostrosky-Stern accepted the "Shelter of the Year" Award on behalf of the North Shore Animal League, the non-profit rescue organization which the event benefitted.

Cubby and Ginger on the runway with Matt Wayne and Erika Searl

Additional photos can be seen on Arthur Eisenberg's Site

Photo of Celebripups Bocker, Andrew and Eli by Steve Mack

If you put yourself out there, you never know where you may end up!

2010-02-15T17:32:00.031-05:00

Today I went to Skybark's Bark Bar held at the Gold Ballroom in Pennsylvania Hotel. I wasn't expecting anything fancy and just wanted to see my friend Ada Nieves and her designer dog clothes booth and maybe run into some of my doggie friends. When I arrived, Ada was not yet there, so I decided to check out the other vendors' booths. I came across an exhibit with beautiful engraved glass dog portraits made by Comfy Cozy Pet Furniture and told the vendor that they had made my portrait for the trophy I received for winning "Celebrity Dog New York 2008" at the 2009 Pre-Westminster Fashion Show. He showed me a copy of the portrait which was on display and said it had been touring trade shows for the last year! On top of that, my portrait is on the advertisement they hand out to people at the trade shows. I was very excited to hear that my image had been circulating all this time. Then Ada arrived and came running up to me holding a book entitled "The Chihuahua" by Susan Payne, which she opened to a page with a photo of me by Christopher Appoldt walking the red carpet with Nora Dunn (Saturday Night Live) at the North Shore DogCatemy Awards in 2007. Once again, I had no idea! At the 2007 DogCatemies, I was standing in the right place at the right time when somebody at North Shore asked me if I would walk the red carpet with Nora, which I did gladly. It makes me wonder where else I may be. I am pleased that my mission - to spread inspiration, hope and healing by utilizing my innate cuteness and charm - has reached a broader level than I had suspected. Just by living my life and going to events, I have ended up in more places that I was aware of. It is very possible that you too have made a bigger influence in the world than you realize. Everything little thing we do makes an impact, even if we can't see it at the time.

My portrait on display at Bark Bar

February 14, 2010

2010-02-15T10:01:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I was asked to write an article about the Skybark Pre-Westminster Fashion Show for an online publication. My first reaction to think it was too much work. I am one busy pup, constantly going to events, doing shoots, socializing with friends. I didn't think I had time to add one more thing to my "to do" list. But I finally forced myself to write an article, and it was so much fun that I have decided I am going to start writing more about the events I go to, the things I do, the things I know, my experiences in life. I am beginning today with a Valentine's Day message, which will be simple and short. Every experience I have had, every owner that ultimately gave me away, every rejection has made me who I am. I would not be where I am today if it weren't for my past. So often we have resentments about our past loves, but that resentment keeps us from experiencing love in the present moment. Every situation has a gift to offer, even if we can't see it at the time. If my first owners had kept me, I would not be a star, and I would not have had the opportunity to share my message with the world. This is what I am thinking about today on this day of celebration of love. Happy Valentine's Day! I hope you all, if even for a brief moment, can love all the people from your past, and your present as well.

(Photo Credit: Jo Lance Photography)