Happy Friday!

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I hope it's been a wonderful week for you. For me, it's been one of what felt like non-stop appointments. I had to get a Covid test for a medical test I needed to have done, then the test (all good!), two car appointments, three if you count taking my teenage daughter to get new tires following an upsetting flat, and a quick vet tech visit for Kola. Oh - and I also had to run to UPS to pick up a package that they said could not be delivered because we were not home - but we were! So - it has been a productive week - but filled with running around. I am ready for the weekend!

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This Week

​Is This One Thing Building You Up or Crushing You Down?​

Last week I mentioned I'd be sharing the rather rough first trip in our new RV. This is it. I'm sharing the story of our weekend, but also a lesson I learned about mindset that might help you avoid some of my mistakes.

​Heeding the Mysterious Call of a Remarkable Cat​

When I first went to Hawaii, I was a solid dog person. This is the story of how a wonderful cat convinced me that I am also a cat person.

​Crazy, Kooky and Well-Considered Tips for Naming Your Next Pet​

Here are some ideas of what to avoid, how to select a unique name, and even getting your pet in on the fun.

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Behind the Scenes

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During August I built a headboard and redid an old Ikea dresser in an attempt to finally decorate our bedroom that was sorely lacking in style. I am still refinishing the desk I started a few weeks ago and just this week we received the new valances we'll be hanging. Here they are, folded up on the cat tree:

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Here is Max, wondering why I just put a stack of laundry on his cat tree. (It's currently his because Jasper is sleeping in a box on our dining room table.)

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Favorite Fun Stuff

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I came across this just this morning, and I love it for how creative it is. Who says a boat has to be boat-shaped? In Venice, a string-quartet plays Vivaldi while floating on a giant violin.

I'm not on Instagram, Facebook or any other social media much these days. When I do pop on it's usually to see what's up with specific friends or groups I follow. I recently saw this update from the Owl Whisperer, a conservation and rescue organization in Panama that specialized in owls, but also rehabs other animals, too. Check out this heart-warming picture of a barn owl about to be released to join her family. (English translation is below the Spanish in the post.)

Have you seen Window Swap? I found and used it a few times during the first year of the pandemic, but then forgot about it. I shouldn't have. What it offers (for free - though tipping is encouraged) is a chance to view the world through someone else's window, literally. Click a button and you're looking out a window in London, England, or Heathmont Victoria, Australia, or Boston, United States, or any one of hundreds (I'm guessing) of other places. It's really soothing and provides a tiny taste of adventure from wherever you are.

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Confession Time

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I download way more free books on my Kindle than I read. They are free! Who can resist? (I get most of mine through BookBub.)

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Before signing off, I want to ask you what you think about a title for this newsletter. I want it to hint at both pets and travel since those are the main topics I write about. I have landed on one I like but worry it might be too long:

Happy Tails and Inspiring Trails

What do you think? I’ll make it easy, tell me if:

- You like it,

- I should keep working on it,

- You have an idea I should consider.

Just reply to this email to let me know. I really appreciate your help. This newsletter is for you, so let’s built it into something fun together. :)

Peace and Smiles,

Dakota Duncan

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I Want in on the Fun!

If you want to find about about my graphic novel or children's chapter books, visit my website: dakotaduncan.com​

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