Let's Bark About It: August Chaos

Well, that was VERY on brand

Okay, I have to laugh.

I sent you my August newsletter last month l, talking about how summer life tends to be a little chaotic…

…and then I sent the start and the end with none of the content in the middle. The good part where I shared my life-chaos survival hacks.

I mean.

COME ON. 😂

So here it is, the part that didn't get sent, more than a month late just in case September has thrown you for a loop as we head into October. Below that you’ll find the newsletter in case you missed that too… and the typo under Day of the Dog that should read Triwood Pet Fest *facepalm*

✨ Give yourself a routine.

The productivity people say routines are the secret sauce. And honestly? They’re probably right. It’s just the sticking to it part that gets a little spicy.

AI has actually been surprisingly helpful for me here. I’ve been using it to build routines, break down my day, and gently steer me back when I inevitably wander completely off course.

The track may look less like a straight line and more like a slithering snake most days, but hey. We’re moving forward.

✨ A book worth adding to your summer reading pile.

Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About: A Memoir by Isabel Klee has been one of those books that makes you laugh, feel things, and think a little differently about the dogs who make their way into our lives.

It’s also reminded me why rescue work matters so damn much, and why I’ll keep celebrating the little black Boxer who started all of this for me.

Stanley, obviously, has no idea he’s carrying an entire emotional support department on his shoulders.

✨ Take five minutes for yourself.

Extra dog cuddles count.

So does sitting somewhere quiet, taking a few deep breaths, and letting yourself notice something you’re grateful for. Yes, I realize this sounds suspiciously like I’m about to tell you to meditate.

I promise I won’t.

And if that quiet moment happens to be accompanied by one of Calgary’s Crave chocolate chip cookies from the frozen treat section of the grocery store?

Well.

I support this wellness practice wholeheartedly.

I just won’t tell your dog you ate it without sharing.

MONTI WELL, THAT ESCALATED QUICKLY. 🍺🐾 Hi Kim MacDonald Whew. The last month has been a little extra around here. The usual juggling act, but with more dogs, more beer, more fundraising, and considerably less evidence that I have any idea where I put anything. I’ve been photographing dogs, running a fundraiser roped in Four Dogs Brewing Co. in support of Calgary Humane Society, soaking up as much summer as possible with Stanley, attempting to keep my house from looking like a tornado hit it (spoiler alert: the tornado is winning), and generally trying to keep the creative wheels turning. And somehow, in the middle of all of that, something pretty incredible happened. Calgary, you have raised more than $60,000 for Calgary Humane Society through the Furever Golden (T)ale Beer Can Label Contest. SIXTY. THOUSAND. DOLLARS. I’m still a little speechless and entirely grateful about it, which is saying something because I am generally not known for being speechless. If you haven’t voted yet, there’s still time to help us make the final stretch count. WHAT'S UP DOGUST BEER CAN LABEL FUNDRAISER Voting for this ridiculous little idea of mine closes August 15. You still have time to enter and vote for your favourite dogs... it'll be hard to choose just one. THE CONTEST FOREVER HOME FAIR Join the kick-off event August 16, 10-5 at Calgary Humane Society. If you’ve ever thought, “You know what my life needs now? Another animal,” this is your sign. Walk in. Meet some very good dogs. Potentially walk out with your new beloved family member. No pressure. Except from the dogs. They’re very persuasive. DETAILS HERE DAY OF THE DOG Day of the Dog returns to Calgary on July 26, bringing North America's biggest dog festival to East Village for a full day of wagging tails, shopping, and canine chaos. If you've never been, add it to your summer bucket list. INFO MY ROUTINE LOOKS LIKE A SLITHERING SNAKE VS A STRAIGHT LINE... If August has been feeling a little all-over-the-place for you too, I hope this gives you a few things to look forward to, a couple of ideas to make life feel a tiny bit easier, or at the very least, a reminder that you’re not the only one doing the best you can with what you’ve got. Some days we have a beautifully organized routine. Some days we eat a frozen cookie for dinner (OKAY THREE COOKIES) and call it self-care. Both count. Okay, your turn. 🌪️ I SHARED MY LITTLE CHAOTIC LIFE HACKS, BUT NOW I WANT TO KNOW YOURS. Hit reply and tell me your best life organizing hack. I’m always looking for ways to make this whole “being a functional adult” thing a little easier. Aubri 🐶 403 560 9391 Website | Instagram