Grain Free Diet Fad

It's rare that your dog may have an actual grain allergy, most dogs are allergic to proteins. Unless you've been told by your vet to by grain-free food, DON'T. Now that the fad-diet has become increasingly popular, more and more studies are being published about the benefits and harms of the diet. Heart disease has become the number one side effect of using grain-free diets. It's because of a deficiency of one of the ingredients, called taurine that helps with a healthy functioning heart. I've written several posts about nutrition and food, and like I've said before, do your research with any pet food that you are buying your dog. Hill's, Purina, and Royal Canin rarely have food related health problems and are properly formulated for your pet. Royal Canin even has specific breed diets so it takes all the guess work out for you!


This past weekend involved a get away to the Music City!

Work-Life Balance

Here's Who I Blame For The High Cost of Vet Care
Life In A Disrespected Profession
Why Employers Should Care About Team Member's Work-Life Balance
The definition of "work-life balance" is different for everyone, especially among the different generations. Creating an "a la carte" plan may be difficult and more time consuming, but it will dramatically help morale. A balanced team means non-toxic team members, less complaining, working the correct amount of hours and not overtime, team members that have outside hobbies, and basically an overall healthy and happy work environment.
This past week I felt the stress with the holiday coming up, my apartment's lease renewal complete with a rent increased, and little things at work. Those glasses of wine after work were welcomed more than usual. That's why I believe very strongly in a work-life balance. I work to live, not the other way around.
Tips for achieving a successful work-life balance:
- Make some sacrifices 
- Be fully present
- Unplug from your phone/computer/TV
-Have hobbies that make you happy
-Know when to let things go
-Don't be too proud to ask for help
-Take time for yourself
-Socialize outside of work 
-Aim to leave work on time
-Don't take your work home with you 
-Plan vacations and don't feel guilty for it
-Make time for family
-Make errands as efficient as possible
-Time management
-Be sure to eat full healthy meals and exercise
-Get enough sleep every night
-Learn to say no
-Make "me" time

Bahamas

Thanksgiving this year was in the gorgeous Bahamas! I can't explain enough how happy I was to be back in the warm weather at the beach. 

Giraffes at Risk

Giraffes Risk Extinction
Giraffes Risk Silent Extinction
Giraffes In Danger
Giraffes Are At Risk
Giraffes have been moved up on the endangered list from "least concern" to "critically endangered" Like most African animals, they are at risk because of habitat loss and illegal hunting. This is such a devastation. You can help these animals and many more by donating at one of the above websites.

It snowed this past week....good thing I will be on a beach next week! Though Anya seemed to enjoy it.

Rocket Frog brewery came to my complex for a beer tasting event on Saturday. The story behind the name is fun and creative, and even more so the beer was tasty.

I worked the overnight shift this past Saturday (9pm-8am). Luckily the night went smoothly, but catching up on sleep the next day was difficult. I drank way too much caffeine to help me stay awake and the tiredness only started to hit me around 6am. I didn't mind the one shift, but I will leave the overnight shift to those night owls. 

I was able to use my Barcelona wine bar gift certificate this weekend. The food was amazing and there was so much of it! I highly recommend checking it out, especially if you enjoy tapas.

Embracing The Fall Season

FL Greyhound Racing Banned 


I've finally been trying to embrace the fall. Enjoyed a Harvest dinner at Paradise Springs winery. The food was delicious and I was incredibly full that I felt like I was going to burst.

Then on Sunday, adventure day, we took a drive along Skyline Drive and enjoyed the fall colors in literally freezing temperatures.


That night there was a lightup festival full of all different types of figures, crafts, and food.


Christmas shopping has begun as well! I'm trying to get a early start this early to avoid the holiday stress later.

Show Time

This past weekend I attended two different shows, The Price is Right on Saturday, and then Anastasia on Sunday! 

The Price Is Right! Come on Down!


Anastasia on Sunday night!
Anya couldn't go, but she got a souvenir 

Sundays Are For Adventures

Pumpkin Spice Latte 

Bear Den's Hike

Junk food wine pairing 

Bear Chase Brewery

Balance

I have been complimented by coworkers on how I manage my work-life balance. It's extremely important in my field to understand and enfor...