Tag Archives: Motivational Interviewing

And the Oscar Goes To….Perry?

IMG_2368Dad finally returned from the cold land of Kansas City Missouri. I was excited to see him and instantly forgave him for abandoning me by counter suffering and snatching a full chicken off the counter. Told you payback can be fun.

The week went great and all of us here at Casa de Perry are happy and healthy. We are working on printing a batch of our book A Healthy Baker’s Dozen, which should be ready in a month. Mom continues to book speaking engagements in Motivational Interviewing all over the country and Dad is trying to keep me out of trouble or should I say I keep him out of trouble.

I thought things were getting close to perfect since we were having a workday at the house. Usually these are pretty cool and mellow, with Dad in the office and me lounging with a big bone.

BUT NOT this time!

The Zade baby came over which means I do not receive all of my loves and attentions, which I am entitled to. Plus didn’t Dad just go to Missouri for that baby? And Dad was holding that little thing way too much and I felt abandoned.

IMG_2505I had had enough and tried to challenge the little creature with a stare down as you can see. Finally after a few hours things went back to normal and the baby was put into his container thingy and left.

Of course once the godchild left I shared with Dad my frustration by taking a few pairs of his shoes outside. That will learn him.

As you can see I am just sitting here waiting for the Academy Awards to begin.

Well, it is once again the Oscars and even though Ellen is not hosting it, Doogie Howser, MD will be in the house.

OK, red carpet fans you will not see me out there on it as it is overcast, chilly and the temp in Santa Monica is only 64 degrees today. I know our east coast friends are more than jealous but remember I have absolutely no hair or body fat to keep me warm, so I’m entitled to a little complaining.

And the Oscar goes to…

Maybe Perry?

Dealing with the Drought in Santa Monica

IMG_1499I thought it was a travel cup. I mean seriously – if there is any sort of vessel that contains water I am on it. I would much rather consume my fluids out of something other than my water bowl.

OK, here is the back story. Dad is on one of his projects and this one is called “conserving water.” Most of you know California is in a serious drought and even with the current rain we are still having problems. To make matters worse the republic of Santa Monica (as some people call it) are not only being faced with water rations, but a water increase over the next five years at 13% each year.

Ok – now back to the story.  Dad thinks we need to try to use our water wisely. His plan is pretty brilliant and I get the opportunity to be involved with the process. So there is now a 5 gallon bucket in the tub, and when anyone takes a shower they must turn the water on and fill the bucket with the cold water.  Once the water gets warm they turn on the shower and push the bucket out-of-the-way.

The best part is when dad has to take the bucket outside to water the plants. I get so excited since I want to drink the cold water. Well this morning I plunged my head into the bucket, dad lost his balance, and some of the water spilled out on the wood floor.

I don’t know what the big deal was since I had already put muddy footprints all over the floor due to the rain. Wasn’t this considered a win-win? But NOOOO it was like I had flooded the entire house according to the parentals.

OK, so the floor is clean, we are saving water and today is the Golden Globes.  You already can guess the weather report so I won’t bore you with it this week.

Peace and Love,

Perry

It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas

IMG_3067What an AWESOME weekend People!

Mom was gone so Dad and I had some boys lounging time on Friday and Saturday and watching mindless television. It was beyond cool since Dad added in some extra Scooby snacks.

We picked up Mom at the airport Saturday night since she was gone to Portland, Maine to do those Motivational Interviewing Training things she seems to always do. I really don’t understand since I’m always motivated to eat healthy but I guess humans aren’t always as smart as us canines.

Sunday morning we woke up and next thing I know Dad was in what they call “the Christmas spirit” and told us all to load up. I know that phrase like the back of my paw. Where were we going? I was just too excited…road trip??

Soon I found myself standing in the middle of a Christmas tree lot, the best one on the west side which is Delancey Street Christmas Trees. The men were so nice to me and gave me lots of attention and pets so I would definitely go back their next year.  Oh the SMELLS, and of course Dad had me on a short leash so I would not mark those trees not that I would even think about doing that.

I have been really good with the tree but then again the parentals are tempting me with this huge stick in the living room?

I am trying to be good. I must be doing a good job because Auntie Marjorie in NJ sent me some packages for my resting times. Thank you Auntie Marj-or-ie as Dad says.

Perry the Paparazzi

IMG_0565No, I am not talking about Lady Gaga and her Paparazzi song, or Perez Hilton gossiping about things you might see on TMZ. I am just spending a little time discussing as my human counterparts might do on occasion…those occasional “water cooler” conversations.

Yep that’s right folks…the parentals went to the south for a MINT (Motivational Interviewing) Conference and I went to the country. However, since I am the weather Weimaraner I thought this week I could be Perry the Paparazzi.

Let’s get to the good stuff. Now of course I am reporting this via osmosis since I was not there in person, since as of yet I’ve not had the luxury of airline travel. But you know if I were there the celebs would have found me so irresistible and would have wanted a selfie with me. Sorry no photos this time but maybe next time.

Anywhoo…sources close share that the Hartsfield-Jackson ATL airport was a buzz with celebrity sightings this past weekend and two stand out.

Golden Globe winner and Emmy nominated actress Joanna Cassidy was spotted chatting on her phone in the Delta Lounge. The Simpson sisters, Jessica and Ashlee with their entourage, took flight from the ATL to LAX late Saturday evening. With both sightings no real fan fare but it was a sight to be seen.

As for the weather it was a hot one last week here in Santa Monica, currently are at a pleasant 75 degrees.

I do hear Halloween is coming soon. Do you think the parental units will make me wear an outfit? You be the judge.

Be safe people and stay out of trouble or at least don’t caught by prying cameras.

Peace out!

Paparazzi Perry

Reflections…

_MG_0877OK, so I have a tendency to be self-absorbed at times and of course I love my own reflection in the mirror. Sometimes the parents catch me looking at myself in the big mirror. Don’t let them know, but I actually enjoy the nose prints I make as this causes Dad to go super crazy and we all know that is a fun adventure to watch.

In all seriousness reflections are a good place to contemplate where we have come from and the direction we are moving in. Life is a series of contemplations and reflections that is how we grow, change, adapt and inevitably survive.

Mom uses reflections with her patients to help them create healthy changes in their lives. Dad uses them when dealing with clients who are stuck with their stuff. I uses them to help me grow and adapt to this thing I call life.

One of the best parts of my life is how I have grown and am becoming a great dog. Yes I still get into trouble and my barking at dogs outside needs to be continually monitored. But I am maturing even to the point of being left outside that crate thing for an hour while they are gone. Granted they still do not leave all rooms accessible to me, which bums me out, but the freedom is awesome.

More importantly freedom allows us choices and liberties to speak freely and voice our opinions. Sort of like me voicing my barking about those dogs who are walking on my sidewalk.

However, with freedom comes a responsibility of being respectful of other’s feeling and boundaries. Also, we should never take for granted our freedom. Some in the world do not have that luxury of voice and choice.

Mom was reflecting how BIG I’ve become and how she would have liked me to stay little just a little longer so this picture is for her..

So reflect and be thankful.

Peace to all!

Perry

Mom Teaches Motivational Interviewing at Westside Family Health Center

photoThe weather sure has been odd this past week folks…humid, overcast, not much sun and a little bit of rain. I really do not care as it does not prevent me from my daily walks and craziness. So as usual I remain the center spot light of the summer.

Last week I got to go to the country as the parentals were busy as usual. When are they not busy? I even got to spend a few extra days there as Dad had to do a job in Westlake Village.

However, it looks like my schedule is going to be crazy this week. I get the opportunity to go hang out at Westside Family Health Center, as this is one of Mom’s places where she teaches Motivational Interviewing and they like me so I get to go hang out and see the staff and patients. I cannot wait for all of the attention and affections I will be getting.  They are featured here at Mom’s training but I get to be featured with them for next week’s blog!

AND I get to go try out this new place call the Pooch Hotel because next Saturday the units will be teaching Motivational Interviewing in San Bernardino. No worries people – I love meeting new people and hanging out with new friends.  I do get a little anxious with anything new but I soon get over myself.

photo-2As for the news there is still a lot going on in the world so we need to pray for the safety of people and their families.  I do say my prayers every night before my “sleeps” as Dad says so I can have someone up there watching over me.

It’s a lazy muggy day in Santa Monica and I’m a bit bored so if you have some free time please come and hang out with me and if you have treats make sure to bring those as well!

Love Perry

A Lazy Sunday and my Pudding Sample

photoHello Campers!

Today was another fun, filled Sunday at what I like to refer to as Casa de Perry. As with all my summer mornings they start of at 5:30 and I am ready to go. However, the parentals think they can sleep in on the weekends but not on my watch.

Mom was busy as she had two back-to-back Motivational Interviewing trainings, so I had to hang out with Dad every day. I went to Dad’s side and yawned really loud in his ear to get his attention. He got up and I gave him some love and we started the morning. He made me be very quiet as to let Mom sleep in a little this morning. I like to have everyone up but I don’t always get my way!

After I had my breakfast I wanted to snuggle under the blanket in my chair with Dad for another hour. I love my cuddle time but just as I was really starting to fall back to sleep my best friend PITA came screeching. That got me all worked up and the house was fully awake.

Then after my walk and saying hi to all my dog pals on the block we came home and Dad started making something in the kitchen. I was so excited as I saw fun items and pans I had not seen in a long time. Something was up and I needed to be a part of it.

He was making tapioca pudding from scratch and the aromas filled the house. I did not leave his side for what seemed like hours while he stirred white stuff in the red pan.

Finally it was done and because I was so good I got to sample the rich pudding. However, because it was so rich Mom was not going to allow Dad to feed me enough since it has a little more sugar than I’m used to – I guess I have to expect that having a dietitian for a Mom.

As for the rest of our life we are cruising along nicely. I almost forgot the weather as I am the Weather Weimaraner and it was a beautiful 72 degrees today!

Love to you all…

Perry but no longer the Puppy

10,000 Steps or Bust…

Hello People!

photoOK, here is the 411 in the 310 area code…the weather has been outstanding and I have really enjoyed the fact that it is staying lighter later. I get more playtime outside and also love getting the parentals up earlier because I don’t subscribe to that daylight savings stuff.

As for the parentals it has been quite interesting lately. You see Dad is on one of his OCD things and is determined to get healthier by graduation time. I hear there might be a party, which is awesome, as I will hopefully get some treats.

So he got this thing funny wrist thing called a Fitbit, which calculates his steps. He needs to do 10,000 a day or 5 miles, which means MORE OUTSIDE TIME FOLKS. Our walks have improved and I love that fact plus I get to see more people and you know what that means? Yep, more attentions and affections.

Apparently humans need to get this 10,000 steps per day to prevent heart disease, diabetes and weight issues.  That is a no-brainer for me as you can see I keep my nice trim physique – I don’t need a funny wrist band to tell me that – us canines are a little smarter than the humans but I guess we do need each other.

On a more sober note we need to say some prayers for our friends who had some damage in the latest earthquake, which I slept through. We have been having a lot lately. I don’t like them but am glad to report no one has been hurt.  Auntie Robin lost a lot of her dishes and I offered to go help her clean up but she did not think that was a good idea – I wonder why?  Mom says she’s a smart woman to refuse my help since I’m known for counter surfing in the kitchen.

Mom has been working really hard with her Motivational Interviewing trainings and talked to LA Best Babies this week – have you noticed she helps a lot of people having or who have had babies? Not sure I like that since I’m the baby of the house.  However, I do love laying next to her while she works on her workshop notes.

I have calmed down and am becoming an adult dog. Now don’t get any ideas folks – I still can hang and play with the best of them.  In fact, here I am chilling after my 2 big walks today!

Until next report hang tough and stay out of trouble or at least don’t get caught – I have a habit of being found out as you all well know.

Perry

It’s National Puppy Day!

photoHello Campers!  As you all are aware every day is a special day for me and I am in control of life and its pleasures. However, today is even more special because it is National Puppy Day. OK, so I am not a small puppy but a guy can still try to be a kid…look at Dad as he is perpetually trying to remain a kid.

The best part of my day was receiving a big surprise box from Michael from Central Garden and Pet whom the parentals met at the Natural Foods Expo West in Anaheim a few weeks ago.  Mom told him I love pumpkin and Salmon so he sent me AvoDerm grain-free Salmon food and Pinnacle Salmon grain-free formula to try out.  I was so excited I was trying to rip open the package since they both smelled REALLLLY good.

Mom made me sit and wait for the picture which I am NOT happy about as you can see – I want to eat it, not sit in front of it and watch it.  The parentals aren’t all that smart sometimes – have you noticed that?

Anyway, we know how much I’m up on my nutrition since I know Salmon is high in omega 3’s and sometimes I am not great at taking the oil so this ensures I get what I need. More importantly they both have my FAVORITE food, which we know is pumpkin.   Pumpkin is high in the phytochemicals beta and alpha carotene.  Both of these formulas are a no brainer for me since it helps my brain (pardon the pun people).

_MG_0444 copy 2Anyway, we are still slightly in lock down at no fun Casa de Perry. Dad is pretty busy with finishing up school and organizing his clients, while Mom’s Motivational Interviewing workshops are starting to take off again. I heard the parentals talk about all the things we are doing for the next 6 months. I get the lucky part of the stick, as maybe I will be able to go visit some cool place or go back to the country.

The one fun thing I got to do this week was go to Harvest Home with Mom for the nutrition class she teaches there.  I was really good with the pregnant women and behaved as good as I could and got lots of loves, hugs and pets as we know I can’t get enough of those.

So all you fellow Pups and puppy lovers out there have a great, safe weekend…and I almost forgot it’s a cloudy 63 degrees in Santa Monica.   Here’s a puppy picture for nostalgia!

Peace out!

Perry

I’m the Weather Weimaraner – Check out my #SELFIE Forecast

photo-2Well folks it has been a little soggy around here lately.  Thanks to Auntie Chris for giving me my new name!

The 2014 storm called the Titan came and went. It was quite bothersome to me because I was not able to get outside and play. I know this factor bugged the parentals as my inside land became my exercise turf.

Yep that is right I tore this place up with my fast paced runs down the hallway and the carpets pushed up against the wall like a cartoon. I have been having lots of fun.

Dad has been cool when he has time off from his photography class to take me places, keeping me out of too much trouble.  I love our time in the car as he plays the music loud and I can hang my head out the window. I’m sure some of you have seen some of my own #SELFIES.

On that note have you guys heard that new song called #SELFIE? It bugs but I guess it is this generation’s equivalent to “Valley Girl” from the 80’s or at least that is what Dad said.  I have no idea as he is getting old and I am still young and fresh.

Mom had another one of her Motivational Interviewing workshops yesterday and spent lots of time looking for fun videos to show – I like the one best of all the people dancing in other countries – the only thing wrong is there are no canines in it.

I heard a bunch of celebrities are getting dressed up to walk on the red carpet for gold statues. Something about Hollywood and the Oscars?? I sure wish someone would let me prance around on a red carpet.  I would run back and forth with that little gold statue and make a muddy mess.  Now that would be award worthy.

Catch you when the sun is back out People!