Category Archives: CA

Relaxing Spa in the Desert

If your dog could speak s/he would tell you to Leave the hustle, bustle, traffic, noise and smog behind and bring them to The Dog Spa Resort and Wellness Center for a fun time together. The DogSpa is the pet friendliest place on the planet, never mind Palm Springs and it is for both humans and canines. Talk about dogitude. The place oozes dog friendly vibes. For one thing, dogs go unleash everywhere, there are no pet fees, no restrictions in terms of size, weight and breed, and you can leave the dog in the room if the dog will behave.

That does not mean there are no rules. Guests are reminded not to feed their dogs in public, no treats in common areas, to pick up after their dogs, and to supervise their dogs at all times. The DogSpa is the brainchild of Paula Terifaj, a holistic vet, who knows dogs, knows dog body language and she watches out for any problem dogs. She wants the DogSpa to be a really fun relaxing place for everyone. She also rescues dogs and wants to get the many dogs in shelters adopted into forever homes.

“I wanted to create some place unique, different, a really dog friendly place for people and their four legged family members, to unwind, unplug and relax with fresh air, sunshine and mineral water pools,” she explained. The soothing mineral water is what really attracts people to this area. Year round swimming in a hot springs pool and getting a stress-releasing massage, who could ask for anything more?

Paula bought the intimate hotel in 2009 and spent two years renovating it to her specifications. There is a dog park that is fenced that dogs can enjoy. Dogs Vacation Free here. And if your dog happens to fall into a pool with you, well then, whoopsie. This resort takes dog friendly into a whole other realm.

The point is for you and your dog to share the experience. You do not want to have your dog stuck in some kennel or room while you are away having fun. People benefit from the whole experience and their dogs get to be part of it, too.  Imagine lazy days lying in the sun, swimming in the pool, enjoying the hot tub, and your dog is lying on a towel next to you relaxing, too.

A dog named black lab mix named Jake greeted Cici and I. He was running around the pool with a ball in his mouth that he would not let go of come heck or mineral water. Cici also met one of Paula’s dogs, Brad Pit, a brown beagle and pit bull mix. He was guarding the area between the kitchen and the dog park (a relaxation area). We did not get to meet her other dog, Black Beauty.

 

unit_4_bedroom_325x215

 

We stayed in a luxury Suite 4 (with café kitchen).Cafe Kitchens feature a full sized refrigerator, ice, coffeemaker, microwave, toaster, sink, and dinnerware. There are only six unique rooms including Wellness rooms with purified water, air, magnet beds and so much more.

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Ahhhhhhh….

  • Two hot mineral pools kept at the perfect temperature year around. Large swimming pool at a comfortable 88° F and Jacuzzi at a therapeutic 102° F. Both heated without gas by an underground hot water well.
  • Complimentary health conscious buffet breakfast from 8am until 10am.

If you live in LA or San Diego and want to spend a weekend or vacation and enjoy the mineral hot springs pool in Desert Hot Springs (a few minutes from Palm Springs), then this IS the place to visit. It is only two hours from LA and San Diego and you can bring your pooch(es).

 

Speaking of dog parks, Paula suggests:

l. Be prepared and be vigilant.

2. Bring a spray bottle of water, know where there is a hose, or bring an air horn or a whistle to use if dogs are not getting along.

3. Be mindful

4. Keep your eyes and ears on your dog at all times.

5. Be aware of the weather. Dogs should NEVER be left along in a hot car and in the summer, the pavement may be too hot for their paws and can burn their pads.

If you are seeking a small intimate healthy environment to do workshops or seminars or retreats, you may be able to rent the entire property for a yoga workshop, a cooking, meditation, or healthy retreat.

Ask for the Double the Fun special as well as a dog spa gift certificate. You and your dog deserve stress-free pampering time!   Click on the link below to find out more.

http://www.dogsparesort.com/

You can also go shopping with your dog at The River (a dog friendly shopping mall in nearby Palm Desert, yes indeed)…

and there are hiking trails. Click the link below to find out all about the trails, dog park and where to eat with your pooch, too.

http://www.dogsparesort.com/dogs-welcome

 

There are some other dog parks in the area in case you want to visit (but you will enjoy the one at the Dog Spa Resort more than any of the others, we betcha plus who wants to drive all the way to Palm Desert or Indio when you and your pooch came here to stretch your paws and woof it up !

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Filed under CA, California, dog friendly, dog rescue, dog spa, dog travel, dog treats, dogs, four paws up, holistic vet, K9 approved, K9 travel, keep pets safe, Palm Springs, pet adoption, pet care, pet friendly dining, pet friendly lodging, Uncategorized

tell Gov. Brown NO to Hayden repeal

Legislators to determine the fate of California’s pets on April 11. Please call today!

Pets in California animal shelters are dangerously close to being cast back into the dark ages. Right now, the Hayden Bill (SB 1785), a groundbreaking law passed in 1998 to protect shelter animals and give them more chances to find homes, is in danger of being partially repealed by Governor Jerry Brown.

The Assembly Budget Subcommittee has already rejected Governor Brown’s proposed repeal of the Hayden Bill.  Now, the fate of thousands of animals across the state is in the hands of the Senate Budget Subcommittee, who will hold their own hearing on Wednesday, April 11. You can help by contacting the committee members today (calls are most effective), and asking them not to repeal any parts of the Hayden Bill.

Senator Joe Simitian, Chair: (916) 651-4011
Senator Jean Fuller: (916) 651-4018
Senator Alan Lowenthal: (916) 651-4027

http://blogs.bestfriends.org/index.php/2012/02/06/gov-jerry-browns-budget-seeks-to-tighten-noose-around-neck-of-shelter-animals/

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Filed under animal rescue, best friends animal sanctuary, CA, California, dog rescue, dogs, news, pet adoption, pet rescue organizations, Uncategorized

I left my heart in Mendocino, Little River and Westport…

 

 

At Abigail’s B and B in Mendocino… 

 

http://www.whitegateinn.com/abigails.php

 

We had the whole house to ourselves thankfully the way cici was carrying on…  not sure if it’s Mendocino or cici is just whacking out, having a dog breakdown or what but she was pretty crazed yesterday with all of the dogs, cats and people around here. Abigail’s smells very fresh and not chemical like some places do. The feather bed is very comfy and also very fresh.

We stayed in the Drawing room downstairs. A large, very private sunny room with a view of the garden. It contains a queen sized four poster bed, a large closet, sitting area and full bath with shower/bath combination.

The wine and cheese spread at 5 pm was fabulous… there were different cheeses, two wines, olives, salami, rumaki, a hot dip with artichoke that was scrumptious, different kinds of crackers, and cookies. Slept well and so did cici. got her a new halter instead of her collar, which i like a lot.  she also needs a new stronger retractable leash… They have some nice toys and treats for the pups at the gift shop at the Whitegate Inn, bully sticks for $1 and squeaky toys. 

It was a little confusing to get to Abigail’s so here are the directions. Exit Highway One to Little Lake Road. Turn left on the second street which is Howard. Go two blocks to the Whitegate Inn on your left.  Go to the office, and they will check you in and direct you to Abigail’s which is just down the street . 

At breakfast, which was an egg souffle, some banana bread and fresh fruit, I met a family from the Netherlands and several couples from the Bay area.  after I had breakfast, I came back to the car and cici was shaking a lot, so i decided it would be good to walk her around a bit. 

We went to Evergreen Barn which is around the corner and has pet supplies. She threw up at Evergreen, there were two dogs there that she could not play with so we left… the woman there was kind and suggested I get her some rice. Did some errands and drove north up the coast, a bit twisty and windy but beautiful, a little like driving to Big Sur… we stopped at a beach along the way and got out… and cici had a great time running around getting all of her pent up energy run off, so much fun getting all sandy and wet… she finally sat down so then i took her back into the car and we drove the rest of the way up to Westport… it is a tiny little town, smaller than Little River which is saying a lot…

We looked for signs to the Howard Creek Inn and Farm and found it and drove in the driveway passed some sheep grazing along the grass. 

Howard Creek Ranch Inn is an historic, 60 acre, ocean front farm bordered by miles of beach and mountains on the beautiful Mendocino Coast.  Charles (Sunny) and Sally have been working on the Howard Creek Ranch for the last 20 years. They met, fell in love and bought the property from people who had a commune on the land. Howard Creek Ranch is a Mendocino County Registered Historic Site nominated to the Federal Register of Historic Places.

http://www.howardcreekranch.com/history.html

The Ranch has farm animals, nine cats, award-winning gardens, fireplaces/wood stoves, a 75 foot swinging foot bridge over Howard Creek, hot tubs, on-site hiking, sauna, 1000 year old redwoods, and horseback riding on the beach or in the mountains.

Accommodations include cabins, suites and rooms furnished with antiques, large comfortable beds, and handmade quilts with views of the ocean, mountains, creek or gardens. 

Sunny and his wife Sally came here in 1973 and renovated the old building and built new buildings with some modern amenities of Internet and TV videos of old PBS shows and Star Trek… wireless was intermittent in my room… There also is no phone in the room. Atrium B&B and Abigail’s also had no phone in the room. The Little River Inn, Pacific Mist Inn, Surf Motel and Pine Beach Inn all had phones in the room.  If you want to get away from TV and Internet, Howard Creek is a good place to disconnect.

There is a deli in town for food for lunch and dinner, or you can bring your own. The market/deli is not like the one in Little River, I asked for Chicken Teriyaki and got some hot spicy Indian food instead, I did not know until I got back here. I also brought some hot dogs and breakfast is at 9 a.m. in the dining room. 

Breakfast was the heartiest breakfast ever, delicious… eat until stuffed, lots of portions… strawberry banana pancakes, whipped cream, fresh juice, apple granola muffins, turkey bacon, fresh fruit and edible flowers, spinach and cheese quiche, and the best mint tea ever, fresh from the garden… the gardens are spectacular, gorgeous flowers… and it’s soooo peaceful…  the antiques are real, too… 

The ambiance is very peaceful and relaxing and rustic, and very down homey. You can walk to the beach from here and there is a community living room. We stayed in the Walden room.  It is quite large, with a fridge, sink, coffee pot, hanging plants…  deep rich brown wood walls and reddish brown tile floor. 

I had hoped that Cici would be mellow from her run on the beach, but she was up all night, nosing around sniffing everything. We took a few walks and met the other people staying at the farm. It is lovely to be out in the country a hop skip and a jump from the beach. There is a nice grassy area to relax, sunbathe, and barbecue. You must keep your dog on leash at all times so as not to disturb the animals.

If you stay in the Redwood Suite, there is a beautiful view of the ocean from the upstairs bedroom loft and downstairs… if you stay in the Walden room and people are upstairs in the community room, you can hear them walk around up there. There are 12 rooms, four of which are pet friendly. There is a Beach house, and a cabin, which have ocean views, too. 

Visitors come back to the farm on their birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. Some notables include billionaire entrepreneurs, celebrities, and regular folks from cities near and far. the inn is non-smoking as were most of the inns I stayed at this trip.

Takes about five hours to get to San Francisco, Tomorrow we will travel to Branscomb Road to go across to the 101 and go south to SF. 

Branscomb Road takes about an hour, you get onto 101 (and don’t necessarily know it) and you are above Willits… it was easier than the 128 and took less time and was nice and scenic… 

San Francisco was a whole other matter… the best thing that happened was I found a way OUT of SF easily and fast, by not knowing where I was going… I got off the 19th and had a stop at Geary and 5th. Afterwards, I got onto 19th Avenue, it dead ended and I proceeded towards the 1, the beach and took Hwy 1 south to the 280… easy… no getting lost and driving along the beach, no traffic either… 

We were supposed to stay by the airport but that did not work out so we went to Gilroy and Monterey beach… now we are at a secret location near Lancaster, CA… it is a very nice place is all I can say…  the Mystery and Adventures continue…

 

Walden room at Howard Creek Inn 

      

 

 

 

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Filed under animals, B&B's, CA, California, cats, dog friendly, dogs, four paws up, K9 approved, Monterey, mutts, pet care, pet travel, sheep, travel, travel with dog, travelwriting, women travel, women with dogs, women writers with dogs

russian river has gone to the dawgs…and chickens…

Cici and I left Nevada late, about 10 a.m. and drove via 88 down to Jackson… unlike in January, when we encountered lots of weather, snow, in other words, the morning’s drive was a breeze… we stopped off at the Sequoia drive-in before Jackson for a turkey burger, they have the best… Cici licked feet of all who would let her and got some treats… 

We drove on the 12 which turned out to be the long way, got lost, and then got back on track on the 80 to the 37 and exited in Petaluma, a shortcut… then we got lost again trying to find out way onto River Road in Guerneville, our final destination. 

Finally, after three people directed us to go in the wrong direction, we made it here to the Sonoma Orchid Inn… we could have opted to go the way I know to go, through Bodega Bay, but my neck and back hurt from all of the heavy lifting and packing the car, and I thought it would be quicker to go the way I didn’t know… duh… we will leave here and go to Bodega, visit Sebastopol, and get snacks at Trader Joe’s in Santa Rosa. We will then take the 101 north to the 128 up to Mendocino and Little River, CA this afternoon… 

The Sonoma Orchid Inn is a sweet place. It used to be called the Ridenhour Inn… I love the new name. Owners and innkeepers of the inn for two years, Dana and Brian, instantly came out to greet us with their two dogs Saffy (Saffron) and Cori (Coriander), the spice dogs… Saffy offered Cici her own very special hoof chew which Cici confiscated immediately. I made her give it back and Saffy once again gave it up to her guest. What a generous little host. She’s really cute, too…

 

 

While we chatted and got the lay of the land, Cici decided to scope out and sniff the new digs. Ignoring Saffy almost completely, except to growl at the girl for having the audacity of taking her hoof chew back, at which point I took the chew away from her and gave it to Saffy’s owner. Cici is still wondering what happened to that yummy chew.

The inn has ten rooms, most of them pet friendly. We are staying in the Madrone room, nice and big, with a back glass door, a fireplace (the weather is too warm, shucks), a fan, very nicely furnished, a large bed, king or queen, a TV, no phone, wireless Internet… 

 

http://www.sonomaorchidinn.com/rooms/madrone.asp

 

 

 

We’ve heard rumors about two hens/chickens who will be out to greet us soon… and at 9 a.m., we will have breakfast made from the fresh eggs and organic produce grown here… There are always fresh cookies and coffee out in the main room where the office is.  All in all, it is peaceful and quiet and set off the road a tiny bit into the woods. 

Nearby is the fabulous Armstrong Woods, about 5-10 minutes from here, rumors of a great Thai restaurant, which I would have tried but was too tired to move last night, and it’s about 20 minutes to Bodega Bay. There are wonderful wineries, and Healdsburg, Sebastopol, Santa Rosa and Windsor have some delicious chocolate yummies… we may check out later on our way out…

 

http://www.thechocolatelab.net/

 

106 Matheson Street – Healdsburg, CA 95448

 

 

Sweet Memory Chocolates

305 Center St

Healdsburg, CA 95448

(707) 433-5351

 

Powells Sweet Shoppe Healdsburg 

322 Center St

Healdsburg, CA 95448 

 

Tel. +1 707.431.2784 

 

 

http://www.hempandchocolat.com/

 

Guerneville

 

http://www.camelliainn.com/specials.asp

 

Every week the inn celebrates chocolate with Chocolate Covered Wednesdays. Guests enjoy chocolate food, chocolate port, chocolate soap, chocolate candles, and chocolate body paint.

 

Don’t you just love the idea of Chocolate Covered Wednesdays… 

 

 

Peter Rabbit’s Chocolate Factory

(707) 575-7110 

2489 Guerneville Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403

 

Heart’s Desire Chocolate    
(707) 528-9061     
4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401 

 

 

La Dolce V Fine Chocolates

(707) 829-2178 

2661 Gravenstein Hwy S, Sebastopol, CA 95472

 

Gandolf’s Fine Chocolate    
(707) 887-2950     
Forestville, CA 95436 

 

Wine Country Chocolate & Truffles

(707) 996-1010 

PO Box 297, Sonoma, CA 95476

 

The Chocolate Cow

(707) 935-3564 

452 1st St E Suite F, Sonoma, CA 95476

 

Ecotech Systems

(707) 996-1010 

416 Claudia Dr, Sonoma, CA 95476

 

De Bas Chocolates

(415) 479-5896 

23 Pimentel Ct Suite A, Novato, CA 94949

Le Belge Chocolatier    
(415) 883-6781     
37 Commercial Blvd Suite 108, Novato, CA 94949

 

Cici sleeps while I write, all is well with the world.

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Filed under CA, California, chocolate, chocolate factory tours, chocolate tours, chocolate travel, dog friendly, dog toys, dogs, four paws up, Guerneville, K9 approved, mutts, organic, pet care, pet travel, travel, travel with dog, travelwriting

dog models…

 

 

Another way that K9’s can earn their keep is through dog modeling…  this guide shows you how to get started… if you want to show off your dog and earn money…  

 

someone recently suggested that Cici could become a dog model… I fell down on the floor laughing my butt off… this person obviously has never met my girl Cici… assuming that dog modeling requires a dog to sit or stand still for more than 30 seconds at a time… she does do that on occasion… and that a dog listens and obeys basic commands on cue… hah… need I say more? 

 

yesterday, I took her out behind the house because she needs exercise… I was happy to let her roam around back there because SHE NEEDS EXERCISE… she sniffed her way over to the neighbor’s house where lo and behold, they have a dog… the dog, Sunshine, was indisposed unfortunately… hurt herself… and was being confined. Me and the neighbor lady chatted while the K9’s whined… Cici was beside herself, barking at me even after we got home… how dare I take her away without letting her play with Sunshine… and then out in the yard, she heard these other dogs down the street in the other direction barking. She kept coming into my room barking at me to take her there immediately… I felt bad for her, wanting to play with some dogs, any dogs, and this really was not a viable option for her… what is a dog mom supposed to do ? 

we will be moving in two weeks and hopefully to a place filled with K9’s … not… at least a place where she can sometimes play with others of her species… 

 

but I digress from the subject at paw… 

 

http://pawpalaceonline.blogspot.com/2008/02/for-working-class-canine-starting-being.html

 

 

http://www.animalactorsagency.com/Dogs_Medium_Hm.htm

 

DO YOU THINK YOUR PET COULD BE AN ANIMAL ACTOR? THEN REGISTER YOUR PET WITH OUR ANIMAL TALENT AGENCY – WE NEED ANIMAL TALENT FROM ALL OVER THE COUNTRY AS WELL AS OVERSEAS. OUR DATABASE IS SEEN AROUND THE WORLD
animal acting classes
Once you register with the Animal Actors Agency, you will be able to join our STUDIO DOG TRAINING CLASSES, similar to dog acting school, which will increase your dog’s potential as an animal actor.

 

We are currently NOT accepting any new submissions for 
animal actors. Please check back on our website soon for updates on when 
we will begin to accept submissions.

 

How much money will my pet make?
Payment to you will be made promptly upon payment to Hollywood Animals. The animal rental fees for dogs, cats and birds vary depending on various aspects: a) how many days the animal is working; b) is the animal highlighted or is it background atmosphere; c) the type of required ; d) how trained your pet is. To give you an example, dog rentals can be anywhere from $50.00 to $300.00 dollars per day.

 

I’m looking to supplement my income and thought that putting my dog on TV would be the way to go…
The #1 most important reason to get your dog involved in studio work should be that it’s FUN FOR YOU PET! If you are just in it for a buck, you are in it for the wrong reason. Don’t expect to get rich off of your dog doing a few shoots here and there. If your dog or cat is uncomfortable around distractions and becomes distressed around strangers and you are unable to put in the time and patience in overcoming these obstacles, then studio work is not for you.

 

What Makes a Good Studio Animal?
Basic Obedience – Your pet should have reliable basic obedience. Typical obedience commands include heel/loose-leash walking, sit, down, wait, recall (coming when called) and stay. Proofing all obedience behaviors around distractions and at a distance is key for studio animals.
Environmental Conditioning – Exposing your pet to challenging and interesting environments with stimulating sights, sounds, smells and textures.
Socialization – Exposing your pet to new environments that include interaction with pedestrians, crowds, small children, other dogs, other animals, motor vehicles and machinery. On a set, your pet will be working with trainers and actors and must be able to work with people other than his or her guardian!
AKC Canine Good Citizen (CGC) or Therapy Dog Guidelines – The requirements for a certified Canine Good Citizen are excellent guidelines for the makings of a good studio dog. Learn all of the exercises required for certification including accepting a friendly stranger, handling by a stranger, walking in crowds, sit and down in place, coming when called, obedience under distraction and supervision by a stranger.

 

Fifi Dog models… awww, look it’s a Dal… sweet, but do they take mutts and mixed breeds???   oh boy, can you Cici now? 

 

http://www.fifidogmodels.com/models.html

 

            

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Filed under all you need is a dog, animal stars, animals, belly rubs, CA, California, dog friendly, dogs, dogs around the world, exercise your dog, four paws up, K9 approved, money, mutts, pet care

Chocolate makers of California …

Chocolate venues to drool for…   northern California, the Bay area has more than 11 chocolateers… plus shops… factory tours… and other venues… that rate five on the chocometer… (1-5)…

check out some of these…

and there are chocolate festivals, fairs, and wine and chocolate tastings, beer and chocolate tastings, salt and chocolate tastings, and a whole assortment of hidden and not so hidden fun chocolate sites along the chocolate trail… (more info is covered in my chocolate travel guide, contact me for more info)… I also have mentioned venues in other travel posts… such as Donnelly’s in Santa Cruz…

http://chocolocate.com/state.php/California/

http://www.debritochocolate.com/ 

http://www.beachcalifornia.com/jelly_belly.html  

http://www.viamagazine.com/top_stories/articles/chocolate03.asp 

Anette’s Chocolate Factory

http://www.anettes.com

Faerie Queene Chocolates

http://www.faeriequeene.com/

Ghirardelli Chocolate Company

http://www.ghirardelli.com/

Guittard Chocolate Company

http://www.guittard.com/

Hershey’s

http://www.hersheys.com/

Joseph Schmidt Confections

http://www.jschmidtconfections.com/

Monterey Bay Chocolates

http://www.montereybaychocolates.com/

Oak Knoll Inn

http://www.oakknollinn.com/

Peter Rabbit’s Chocolate Factory in Santa Rosa

Recchiuti Confections

http://www.recchiuticonfections.com/

Scharffen Berger

http://www.scharffenberger.com/

See’s Candies

http://www.sees.com/home.cfm

XOX Truffles Inc.

http://www.xoxtruffles.com/

loveandkisses300dpi.jpg

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Filed under CA, California, chocolate, chocolate factory tours, chocolate tours, chocolate travel, dark chocolate, travel, travelwriting, wine, women travel

solvang, idyllwild update…

An update about Idyllwild…

since i was there, they’ve built a dog park and hold a town’s “cutest dog” contest through the Town Crier newspaper….

http://www.towncrier.com/dogs.html

free publications to download..

http://www.towncrier.com/publications.html

Pet friendly Solvang

One of my favorite places in California is Solvang, the little Danish village/town… I have not gone there yet with cici, but there are some wonderful places for dogs and humans… Solvang is about an hour north of Santa Barbara, another wonderful city, but much more of a city than Solvang… Solvang takes you away to a simpler time and place…  and interesting, while doing research, I found that every year they hold a Greyhound dog fest in Solvang…

Anyone for a pit bull fest in Solvang???  would be fabulous positive press for our beloved pit bulls as well as a way to raise money for all of the pit bulls that need homes..  contact me… 

http://www.solvanggreyhoundfest.org/lodging.html

http://www.peasoupandersens.com/

Be sure to visit Monty Roberts, the Horse Whisperer’s ranch…

http://www.montyroberts.com/news_artcl_horse_sense.html

An interview with me where I talk about Solvang and other romantic locations…

http://www.bookpleasures.com/Lore2/idx/0/2152/article/Professional_Travel_Writer_CeliaSue_Hecht_Interviewed.html

http://sketchandtravel.com/INTERVIEWS2.cfm?holdid=353

Chocolate galore:

handmade Danish chocolates that are divine, and now they offer factory tours:

http://www.ingeborgs.com/factory_tour.html

This is a sweet little bakery, the motel I stayed in offered a free breakfast, and it was very nice continental, with tea or coffee and a danish and baked goods… yum…

http://www.olsensdanishbakery.com/

http://www.virtualsolvang.com/

http://www.royalcopenhageninn.com/Solvang-Dining.html

since I wrote this, the owners have changed so I don’t know if the service, breakfasts and all are the same as when I was there…

Solvang, California: This Hans Christian Andersen village come to life, about one hour north of Santa Barbara (which is an hour north of Los Angeles), is a favorite of mine. And the Storybook Inn is a most romantic venue. This European style villa offers nine guest rooms, each one decorated and named according to various Hans Christian Andersen stories. A lavish room for newlyweds is the Swan’s Nest, which features a Queen Bed with feather comforter, private bathroom with double Jacuzzi tub, and fireplace. And the breakfasts are divine.

http://www.solvangusa.com/

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Filed under all you need is a dog, CA, California, chocolate factory tours, chocolate tours, dogs, family friendly, four paws up, Idyllwild, K9 approved, K9 travel, keep pets safe, mutts, pet friendly lodging, pet travel, Solvang

Peace and quiet only an hour away from LA

If you live in southern California, Los Angeles area, San Diego or Palm Springs, and have never been to Idyllwild, you must go.  It is as simple as that. This is a divine place. I went there before I had Cici, and I will return with her and it will be another amazing experience.  Getting back to the woods. We all suffer from nature deficient disorder living our busy lives in urban surroundings. It is time to kick back, take your shoes off and relish the silence. 

This is what I wrote about being there… 

I did not realize how much I missed the sounds of silence until I stayed one hour away from Palm Springs and Los Angeles in Idyllwild, California.  Idyllwild provides all of the ingredients for a romantic or creative interlude: privacy, scenic splendor, chocolate, good food and wine, and palpable peace and quiet.  A perfect place for a restful and rejuvenating retreat from city life, majestic trees, mountain scenery, fresh clean air, birds singing, squirrels playing, and stars at night. If you are an artist or writer, this is a fabulous place for a retreat. 

Idyllwild is located in the San Jacinto mountains of Southern California, tucked away in the remote, southern portion of the San Bernardino National Forest above Palm Springs.  At 10,804 feet above sea level, Mt. San Jacinto is the second tallest mountain in Southern California. 

Idyllwild is known for its breathtaking beauty. But it also hosts numerous cultural events (art galleries, music festivals, theatrical productions) as well as outdoor activities (horseback riding, rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, camping and mountain biking). In the summer, Idyllwild also offers respite from the summer heat. And a midweek stay is always good. 

Unique one-of-a-kind gifts can be found in the numerous gift shops, perfect for Christmas, Valentine’s Day and other holiday shopping. You can also combine art viewing with shopping at Everitt’s Minerals & Gallery and Willow Creek Gallery. 

Personally, I prefer the wild serenity and relaxation option of the spa experience.  Dining out at natural food cafes such as Natures Wisdom and Idyllwild Green are a nice home away from home treat.  Anna Bielecki is a fabulous hostess and makes amazing all natural chocolate treats. 

If you and your sweetie are looking for a cozy, romantic setting for Valentine’s Day, your anniversary,  or just because, try the Restaurant Gastrognome or the Gnome as the locals call it. The ambiance is private and enjoyable, the food elegant and delicious and the service superb. Go for the specials such as lobster tacos. And the chocolate dessert cake rates a 10+ on the choco-delicious meter.  

http://www.idyllwildbureauoftourism.com/

And if you want a romantic location for a wedding, why not consider getting married in Idyllwild. Rev. Richard Cadieux will be happy to conduct your ceremony. Plus, you can honeymoon at his Cedar Street Inn & Spa where romance reigns in an atmosphere of old world sophistication. The conference room is perfect for seminars. Vow renewal and small wedding ceremonies, who could ask for anything more?  

Last time I spoke with Richard, a couple of months ago he told me that he is creating a wedding ministry, to go out and perform weddings because more and more brides want a wedding that is non-denominational, in an out of doors setting, done by a wedding official.  There will be 2.4 million weddings in 2008 and the average cost is $28K. 

And Cedar Street Inn and Spa is a pet-friendly hotel and an award winning inn. Plus, Idyllwild’s finest massage therapists and esthetician practice their healing art at the Cedar Street Inn and Spa.

http://www.cedarstreetinn.com

Two other don’t miss romantic hideaways are Strawberry Creek Inn and the Rainbow Inn. I stayed in the Bear Den room at the Rainbow Inn… comfy, with a lot of modern amenities and nice breakfast. Innkeepers Lon and John were not there at the time but the ambiance was wonderful. 

http://www.rainbow-inn.com/The_Bear_Denx.htmll

The difference between a mediocre host and a par excellent one are the attention to the details. Ian and Rodney at the Strawberry Creek Inn offer guests a cozy all natural setting. I stayed in the Evergreen Room with a fireplace, and an eco-friendly coffee log to set on the fire. Plus, they treated me to delicious chocolate chip pancakes for breakfast and some other cacao goodies.  I truly felt welcomed.

http://www.strawberrycreekinn.com/

Drink in nature at its finest… Idyllwild is a feast for the body and soul…

Pet friendly Idyllwild…  dog friendly lists several parks, events and lodging….

http://www.dogfriendly.com/server/travel/uscities/guides/w/cities/wonlinecityCAIdyllwild.shtml

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Filed under AAA, air, B&B's, bunny rabbits, CA, California, chocolate travel, dark chocolate, dogs, drive, driving, four paws up, Idyllwild, K9 approved, K9 travel, mutts, Palm Springs, pet friendly lodging, rainbows, travel, travel with dog, travelwriting, wine, women travel, writing

bring your top dog to work …

tails of marin… only in marin … 

http://undress4success.com/work-home-news-summary-030308/

http://www.marinij.com/homeandgarden/ci_8417087

According to a survey of 50 companies by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association, dogs in the workplace can contribute to greater employee morale, camaraderie and reduced absenteeism, as well as enhanced productivity and even increased sales. Another survey, cited on the CBS Evening News, said that 46 million Americans would work longer hours if they were allowed to bring pets to work with them…

Employees at dog-friendly environments frequently laud the cheering effect of having a furry friend in the cubicle…Some estimates suggest that as many as 20 percent of American businesses welcome pets. So how can you convince your company to welcome Sparky and turn your office into a dog-friendly workplace?

Here are a few suggestions:

Start small: Start with the idea of a Bring Your Dog to Work day. This allows everyone to sample this new concept. Do the groundwork to ensure this experiment is a success. Limit the invitation to well-behaved, socialized adult dogs that understand basic commands like sit and down. Puppies are delightful but can be unpredictable.Think like your boss: Now that you’ve got a BYDTW day lined up, consider your company’s concerns first. They’re worried about hygiene (potty accidents, fleas, fur), disruption (barking, food theft, chaos), and litigation (biting and aggression). Make sure to address these issues and prevent problems before Sparky shows up in your cubicle.

Be the lead dog: Whether she’s there for the day or becomes a regular fixture under your desk, your dog needs to learn appropriate behavior in the office – and she can only learn that from you. Keep your dog under your control, don’t tolerate barking or aggressive behavior and don’t let your dog annoy or distract other employees.Location, location, location: In some parts of the office, staff may map out a shared territory for canine visitors; in others, you may need to keep your dog in your cubicle at all times. And there are the people who are allergic to dogs. Know where your dog is – and is not – welcome throughout the building.

Make it a policy: If, after one or more successful BYDTW days, the company seems poised to take a more open stance toward dogs in the office, offer to help draft a regular pet policy. Guidelines protect the company and the dog guardian, by making expectations and consequences clear.

Remember: having dogs at work is a privilege and a responsibility.

Make it your job to ensure that your company experiences your dog as a pleasure, not a liability.
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My blog is now worth$17,500.74.How much is your blog worth? 

 

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Filed under all you need is a dog, Bay area, CA, California, dogs, mutts

wanna doggie biz?

Did you know that the fastest growing segments of home-based businesses are in the Pet Care Industry?

Here are just a few statistics:

• Pet businesses are the fastest growing home-based business

• 40 million US households own at least one dog

• Americans spend $34 billion on their pets each year

• 47% of all US households own more than one pet

If you, like me, want to be in your own business, love animals, and the freedom and flexibility to work when you want, then becoming a Pet Sitter, doggie daycare owner, or Pet Photographer, may be the right occupation and career move for you… Thousands of people are leaving the corporate world behind to work at home…and these businesses are recession proof, low overhead and you don’t have to work like a dog! woof woof… Cici agrees… she likes me home with her and if I am going gallivanting around town to be with other animals, she’s coming along for the ride !!!

As a pet sitter, I wanted to find out more info, so I obtained The Pet Sitting Business video (see website below). I didn’t know what to expect but boy was I pleasantly surprised. This video is chock filled with great tips, advice, and suggestions from Pet Sitters International, Fetch (a franchise) and actual real live pet sitters.

http://www.mypetbusiness.com

For instance, they discuss how to do market research to see if there is a need for another pet sitting business in your community, how to market your business, how to set up a strong and solid business network referral system, build up a clientele and repeat customers, how to generate word of mouth advertising, what a typical day in the life is like, how to expand your business, what services to offer, and how to increase your income and become profitable. They also recommend becoming certified, getting first aid training as well as obtaining insurance and bond for your protection as well as the pet owners. I knew some of these but seeing it in practice was really inspiring and helpful.

This video is four paws up interesting, educational and entertaining, who could ask for more? I love that there is constant footage of dogs taking walks in the park, off leash, on leash, in the background as well as real life anecdotes and examples of how to be a successful pet sitter. Getting paid to be with animals… love it…

http://www.mypetbusiness.com/dvds/pet_sitting_business.html

Thanks to this video, I am redesigning my website, and have new tools and resources to take my pet sitting business to a new level… I would love to pet sit for you and your dogs in California (northern or southern) soon, just send me a jingle/email …

http://house.petsitting.googlepages.com/home

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Filed under all you need is a dog, animals, beach parties for dogs, belly rubs, CA, California, cats, dog parks, dogs, exercise your dog, four paws up, K9 approved, keep pets safe, mutts, pet sitter, pet sitting