"And the Stockings Were Hung...
From the classic Christmas poem “Twas the Night Before Christmas”...
Animal Shelter Appreciation Week
This week, November 5th - 11th, is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. As you well know, I’m a great animal lover, mother to four sweet kitties and an advocate for pet rescue and re-homing. So to take a moment to reach out to you all, many of you like-minded in your love of all things furry, means a lot to me.
I’m sure many of you are aware that our numerous shelters and humane societies in this country are over-crowded, under-staffed and sadly, a “HOME” to far too many beautiful creatures.
Unfortunately, puppy mills, illegal breeders, and pet owners unwilling to spay or neuter their pets, have created a multitude of unwanted, and many times, abused cats, dogs and other pets. I have to say, the shelter staff I have come in contact with are dedicated and caring people that want these animals to have their best possible life. But like many other organizations, they rely on volunteers and donations to keep their businesses up and running.
There are so many ways to support your local animal shelter or humane society. If you are retired, or someone with some free time, consider volunteering your time. Many shelters are looking for people to walk dogs, clean kennels or just snuggle with the kitties. Donating products or money is another way to help out. Just check first to see what their particular needs are. Many times they need pet food, collars and leashes, flea & tick medications etc. And if you’re really ready to commit, consider adopting a pet from your local shelter!
These sweet animals cannot advocate for themselves and rely on humans for their basic needs. In most cases, in return, they provide unconditional love and companionship, whether you bring one home, or just spend an hour or two a week with them.
Fall Décor Ideas
OK, I’m NOT one of those people drinking Pumpkin Spice Lattés at the end of July. I’m not one of those people wearing boots...
Labor Day
As we head into the Labor Day Weekend, I’m struck by two somewhat opposing thought processes. For some, it seems that Labor Day signals a BEGINNING of sorts. Granted, many schools and colleges have just gone back into session or will begin the day after Labor Day. Some look at it as a time to buckle down at work, after some lazy summer days, and many consider it the unofficial start of fall.
Still others approach it maybe as a “last hurrah”. A weekend at the beach soaking up some of those last summer rays, or taking the kids camping, or a theme park before they find themselves in a classroom for 8 hours a day. Family picnics abound, as one of the last get-togethers before the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
However you choose to approach it, I’m reminded of the significance of Labor Day. It began in New York City as a means to salute the work force and all those who labored to build the infrastructure, transportation and factories in the city and in the United States. Declared a National Day of Observance by Congress in 1894, the celebration has been recognized unwaveringly since that time.
And while things have changed drastically in the 100+ years since then, I think now is the BEST time to re-commit our recognition to all those who are still working effortlessly to build a strong, successful, sustainable country for us to call home.
The "Dog Days" of Summer
Like me, it’s likely you’ve heard this expression, the "Dog Days" of Summer, at one time or another.
Cats...Part Deux
In my previous post about how I came to be a FOUR (yes, 4!) cat household, Mr. Bud, Coco, Arlo and I were still adjusting...
Summer Solstice
Tomorrow, June 21st, marks the summer solstice A.K.A. the first day of summer. It’s the longest day of the year...
Customer Service
My friends, I hope you will allow me to voice my opinion. I worry that customer service is dying...
Gifts Galore
While the wedding season has expanded over the years to include all 12 months as options for your big day, spring and summer are still a popular time of year to say “I Do!” Something about the flowers, the warm air and new beginnings still make me think of this as the start of wedding season. Thus, it’s a great time to remind you all about Golden Hill Studio’s Gift Registry and wedding glassware options.
Are you getting married in the near future? It’s so easy to create a registry for your friends and family to visit. Simply head to our Gift Registry Sign Up page, fill in your name and email address, create a password and Voilá! Your registry has begun. It’s easy to make changes, and simple for your guests to find and purchase your requests. And shipping is free on $80.00 or more!
Whether you are looking for traditional style champagne flutes for your wedding toast, or one of our numerous artistic designs, your options are endless. In addition to drink-ware, we offer fruit and salad bowls, cheese and cake dishes, and an array of home décor. Our glassware, hand-painted right here in our upstate New York studio, is the perfect wedding or bridal shower gift!
To view more of our glassware designs, head to goldenhillstudio.com.
Feel Spring!
If March comes in like a Lion and goes out like a Lamb, and April Showers bring May Flowers, then Spring...
Happy New Year!
2022 seemed to make its way through like a speeding bullet train. And then, all of a sudden we arrive at the 2023 station. How time can go so quickly...
Holiday Ornaments...Make Your Own
OK, this is going way back to childhood; I’m talking those Christmas Cookie-type ornaments that you can bake and decorate yourself...