Hello!

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So, I am testing out the name "Happy Tails and Inspiring Trails" for this newsletter. What do you think?

I've been on a roll with writing this week. So far, I've managed one essay per day. I hope to get two more done, but here's a mini-confession. I won't publish these last two until next week while I am on vacation. My wife and I are going to take our new RV out for five nights as a fall getaway to celebrate our 8-year Wedding Anniversary. It's kind of late in the season, but as we found out during our short "shake down trip," the heater works well, as does the fireplace. Even if we are stuck inside playing games, reading, and binging on Twilight or Star Wars so we can revel in the impressive surround sound, we'll be toasty warm enjoying time together in our little get-away abode.

I hope this message finds you enjoying the changing weather, feeling optimistic, and spending time with those you love. Now on to the fun stuff of this week:

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This Week

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​The Voices In My Head May Simply Be Obnoxious Narrators​

Do you ever feel like your life is a TV comedy — one of those where the main character/narrator walks the line between self-deprecation and grudging wisdom? I've been experiencing this more and more lately. Here's my take on it.

​9 Signs You Might be Under the Spell of a Crafty Cat​

If you've ever found yourself wondering why you are feeding your cat at 4:30 in the morning, you might be spellbound - by your cat!

​How to Select the Most Tempting Treats for Your Cat​

If there's one thing I know, it's that you can never count on a cat to consistently enjoy something. Just when you think you have her figured out, she will completely change her game plan. Here are some humorous tips you can try for the best chance of success when it comes to providing tasty cat treats.

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Behind the Scenes

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I finally got back to working on my desk. It's turning out quite artsy, as my wife pointed out. The colors will go great in the bedroom and match the other pieces I have redone. I only need to put on a second coat of the green and once it dries, apply some clear acrylic as a protective layer. I'll be sure to share a photo once the drawer is in and all is done.

Our boys both had dental cleanings this week. Jasper was all good, but Max had to have one extraction. They both spent the next 24 hours hopped up on anesthesia, which made them paranoid and jumpy. We were supposed to keep them quiet and hope they'd sleep. Ha! It was probably a good 20 hours before either one of them rested. Max finally crashed behind the living room couch and Jasper got inside our bed, under the sheets and everything. He NEVER gets in the bed, so this was an unusual thing to find. Both boys are mostly back to normal today.

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Favorite Fun Stuff

With Halloween right around the corner, I thought I'd share the bat cam from Bat World Sanctuary. Their mission involves bat conservation, educating professionals and the public about bats, and providing a sanctuary for rescued but non-releasable bats.

I really enjoyed this short article, "The Completely Correct Guide to a Perfectly Cliché Fall Getaway." Maybe it will inspire you to participate in some fun fall activities away from the crowds. I know I will be keeping the ideas shared in mind when we reach our campground and start looking for some fun!

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Confession Time

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I sometimes wear sunglasses along with my anti-Covid mask so no one can see any of my facial expressions. It saves me from my inappropriate but well-deserved eyerolls being noticed.

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I honestly do not know if I will be sending out a newsletter next week. I'll try to put the bulk of the content together before we leave for our trip, but it may ultimately depend on my internet connection. If it doesn't work out, be sure to look for a message from me two weeks from today. :)

Wishing you peace,

Dakota Duncan

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

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