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After ten years of posting on the “Dog Week Book Blog” I’m taking a “paws”. Writing Dog’s Best Friend and blogging about the mission of National Dog Week has been a life-changing process. Many of the posts on this blog, and others, have received nominations and medals from the Dog Writer’s Association of America (DWAA) including Dog’s Best Friend! I began this journey with our beloved, Hooper, a beautiful Portuguese water dog (RIP), at my feet and now a foster-to-forever dog Teddy sits by my side, as he faces his own health challenges, as I draft a memoir based on my experience under the Working Title, THE RISE AND FALL OF NATIONAL DOG WEEK AND A MISSION TO ‘BRING IT BACK’: (MEMOIR OF AN UNDERDOG). I will be posting items from the “Bark-chives” over on the National Dog Week Facebook and my AUTHOR/ARTIST Pages. Here are the links. Please LIKE and visit for updates I thank you for your readership over the past decade. Inquires and questions? www.lbkauthor@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/LisaBeginKruysmanAuthorAndArtist
https://www.facebook.com/NatDogWeek
Teddy Rocks a Maxwell Medallion!
In late February, my husband I commenced a 900 mile move to our new home and community in coastal Georgia. Selling a home and moving several states away during a pandemic has at times taken on a Twilight Zone vibe, but, we’re happy to say that we’re enjoying life in our new community and look forward to settling in.
And I’ve been writing (and painting). In March, when much of the nation began its serious lockdown, I developed a Full Proposal for a memoir with the Working Title FINDING DOG WEEK. For those not in the publishing industry, a proposal is a blueprint for a proposed book stating all the reason it’s a relevant and salable project – no easy task. It is currently being shopped and at the very least, its writing has been therapeutic.
I’m also drafting a new Middle Grade Novel titled PARTY DOG that explores some of the darker elements of the puppy industry while celebrating the triumphant spirit of the dog-human bond. I’m hopeful that both projects will see successful completion and potentially have some positive impact. I know there are so many authors and so little time for reading, so I do appreciate your readership and support – always.
In September 2021, my essay THE GIFT OF DOG, will mark my contribution to a third dog anthology to be published by the venerable Revell-Baker Publishing Group. Compiled and edited by Callie Smith Grant, I’ll be discussing this project as we near its release date. Last year, Callie’s SECOND CHANCE DOGS won the prestigious Maxwell Medallion in the category of best Rescue/Adoption book and several contributors took Maxwell honors as well. http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/search?terms=Dogs
My poem, GOT THE HOME WITH HUMAN BLUES, presenting a dog’s humorous perspective upon finding himself quarantined with humans, will appear in the next issue of Ruff Drafts, the official publication of the Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) and is now a FINALIST for a Special Award in this year’s DWAA’s Writing Competition!
(UPDATE: COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED, BUT TAKE A LOOK AND PLAN FOR THIS YEAR’S EVENT!) And speaking of the DWAA, as an active member of the organization’s Social Media team, I’d like to share that our annual writing competition is currently open. The DWAA, established in 1935, is the only organization in the world comprised of a community of writers and journalists that produce work pertaining solely to canines. But hurry, only original work published between September 1, 2019 and August 31, 2020 will be accepted. All online entries must be submitted on or before Sunday, September 6, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. EST. Mail-in entries must be postmarked no later than Saturday, September 5, 2020, as evidenced by the postmark.
There are a myriad of Regular and Special Awards categories to explore, many offering monetary grants made possible by our generous sponsors. And the good news is that you DON’T have to be a DWAA member to enter and entrants may work from anywhere in the world! Due to circumstances brought about by our current pandemic, this year’s award ceremony will be held virtually on February 14th – what better way to celebrate our love affair with dogs!
I’m proud to be a recipient of a few Maxwell Medallions and multi-nominee and encourage you to take a look at our categories to see if something you’ve “produced” might suit a category. Entry fees are reasonable, too. Here is the link to the DWAA Site with more competition details. https://dogwriters.org/#
Enter soon and be a Dog Star writer under these starry Dog Days of Summer!
A Fresh New Outlook – Good for Creativity!
“Try to be the god on earth, the all-powerful and all-mighty your dog thinks you are. Never let him learn his mistake.” Will Judy, Founder of National Dog Week
Yes Rover, there really is a National Dog Week, and this author has made it a daily habit to sit, stay, and heel by her keyboard in an effort to “convince” the American Public that each September brings seven special days dedicated to dogs and the humans who love them (and that they deserve it).
This Diamond in the Ruff, was brought to us by Captain Wm. Lewis Judy who in 1928 dreamed up the occasion to promote dog ownership, the monthly issues of his Dog World Magazine and to encourage his followers to honor the emotional bond between themselves and their dogs. In 1935, he and his colleagues, established the Dog Writers Association of America giving dog writers a new degree of professionalism.
Long before there were tweets, Judy barked his way into the hearts of dog lovers using nothing but a pedestal phone and manual typewriter. Dog World, headquartered in Chicago, was Dog-Central; pages of his magazine dedicated to every dog topic imaginable. Whether giving advice to a young family who’d just welcomed a new puppy, or die-hard breeders participating in the high-stakes world of dog showing, Judy dispensed words of wisdom and gentle encouragement to all.
In 2010, I began my research on the history of “Will’s World” and launched this blog to discuss the state of the dog in the states of the nation, then and now. As the old saying goes, “The more things change, the more they stay the same.”
Judy, trained as a minister in his Pennsylvanian youth, vilified those involved in dog-fighting rings, irresponsible dog owners who let their dogs roam freely about in urban areas, puppy factories (mills) and dog breed prejudice – many issues that still require attention (and action) today.
In Dog Weeks of Yore, Canine Calvacades took over Rockefeller Center in New York City complete with celebrity spokespersons and festivities. In cities across America schools, scouts and other organizations organized parades, parties and fund raisers to benefit dogs in need and military dogs.
We’ve come a long way since that first National Dog Week Observance held 91 years ago. It’s remarkable really; in the shadow of the Great Depression, how could dogs get a week when most humans couldn’t a day? How could Mother’s and Father’s only be given one day of honor each year while a dog got seven?
But as is often stated, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” and we have Captain Will Judy to thank for this week that brought him, and Americans, to the dogs with his wisdom, kindness, intelligence, perseverance and genuine love of all things dog.
For many years, National Dog Week had an annual theme complete with a poster and a slogan. This year, we invite you to join a Virtual Parade honoring Man’s Best Friend and do your part, no matter how small, to show compassion for and to thank our best four legged companions for all the ways they make the world better for us, asking for nothing in return.
Nothing has brought me more pleasure than watching the National Dog Week Facebook Page grow and thrive – filled with daily Love, Licks and Likes. Sometimes I feel like the “Wizard of Dog Week” – sitting quietly behind my computer “wall” trying to encourage intelligence, courage and heart at a time it is needed most, while nurturing those qualities in myself through the wisdom imparted by so many of our thoughtful page visitors. Sadly, it often seems that we still have a long walk down that Yellow Brick Road to make things truly right for our dogs, and their humans.
Keep up the Good Fight. I’ll do my best to keep up the “Good Write.”
Happy National Dog Week 2019! https://www.facebook.com/NatDogWeek/
To learn more about the man behind National Dog Week and its evolution read Dog’s Best Friend: Will Judy, Founder of National Dog Week and Dog World Publisher (McFarland & Co. – 2014) the only book of its kind! Ask your library to stock it, too!
A Happy Customer!
At a microchip clinic in a Northern New Jersey community, a certified veterinarian prepares to insert a microchip the size of a rice kernel in the nape of a dog’s neck. Assisted by a team of trained technicians, the chip is quickly and painlessly injected without anesthetics. Success! The safety of another pet has been secured.
But what makes this occasion unique is that this clinic is free, courtesy of NJ STRAYS, a non-profit organization with a goal to encourage microchipping as a means to reduce shelter intake.
NJ STRAYS was established by Adriana Bradley in 2012 in an attempt to support families struggling to care for their pets and were in search of low-cost resources.
According to the NJ STRAYS website, Adriana’s No-Kill approach is an inclusive solution to the unnecessary euthanization of Companion Animals in and outside shelters. Her vision is to create a long-lasting solution to this problem through educational and community support.
Nuestra Mision:
“NJ STRAYS se preocupa por la gente y sus mascotas. Nos centramos en reducir el número de mascotas que entran en perreras locales y en prevenir la eutanización innecesaria de las mismas. Somos parte del movimiento en contra de la matanza animal.”
Advocating for protective microchip measures, NJ Strays wishes to save lost pets from euthanasia when these animals find themselves in overcrowded shelters. According to the New Jersey Department of Health, more than 15,000 dogs and cats were euthanized in New Jersey shelters in 2016 alone.
Community outreach has truly been the key to success for meeting their goals. Many of the North Jersey regions served by NJ STRAYS are comprised of a large Spanish-speaking population. By offering services in English and Spanish the organization is able to have a greater impact on animal welfare. Fue un exito!
According to Rachel Moehl of the NJ STRAYS Marketing Team the frequency of these free microchipping events is dictated by need and the sponsorship support received from local Animal Control departments, dog groomers and local boarding facilities. “When we receive complete sponsorship, we’re able to offer free micro-chipping. Without complete sponsorship we are still able to offer our service for a cost of $15.00 per pet,” Moehl explains.This is a huge savings as this procedure can typically cost up to $85.00.
In 2018 NJ STRAYS microchipped 64 pets and had already surpassed that number as of June 2019 with a goal to microchip a total of 800 pets by end-of-year. When these free microchip clinics are held in conjunction with free rabies and spay and neuter events the turn-out is high with nearly 60 pets and their owners attending. Pre-registration is not required.
Chipped and Cheerful!
Animal-loving individuals may pay it forward by sponsoring a pet’s microchip for just $10.00 while having the opportunity to dedicate the microchip to a person (or pet) of their choice. The pet who receives this gift is informed of this special dedication.
Microchipping is a crucial lifesaving precaution throughout all regions of the nation. Dr. Patrick Mahaney, a Los Angeles-based veterinarian, shares, “When I worked emergency practice and would see random clients come in as a good Samaritans having found a lost dog or cat there were plenty of times when a microchip was scanned yet the owner had not registered their information which made it more challenging to get the pets back to their respective owner.”
Rescue Groups also attest to the value of micro-chipping. Joy Manley, founder of R &R Animal Sanctuary in Wisconsin recalls an incident when a woman insisted that a surrendered dog belonged to her. It was only after Joy requested an x-ray of the dog that a microchip was revealed and the situation rightfully resolved. Although uncommon, the chip had migrated.
These situations remind pet owners to register their pet’s microchip and to regularly check the chip’s functionality during visits to veterinarians.
Remember, even the most responsible dog owner may find themselves in situations where they are separated from their beloved pets – a gate left open by a workman or visitor, the startling burst of fireworks that cause a frightened pet to flee, a slip of a leash and collar – these unfortunate circumstances can cause great anxiety and uncertainty for both pet and human. Thanks to organizations like NJ STRAYS, the awareness of microchipping increases resulting in more lives saved and happy reunions.
To learn more about NJ STRAYS please visit https://www.njstrays.org/mission
“Paws” to Chip!
April is National Heartworm Awareness Month and because heartworm is transmitted by mosquitos, areas with warm climates typically have a higher number of heartworm cases. That’s why in places like the Hawaiian Islands, awareness is particularly important. The American Heartworm Society estimates that 26 to 50 cases were reported per clinic in Hawaii in 2016.
When Roxy (my niece) and Kalani, a young couple residing in Oahu, wished to bring a dog into their lives they began their search at the Hawaiian Humane Society. It was there that they met and fell in love with a slate grey and white pit bull they named Tutu.
Tutu had found himself at the shelter as a stray and had only been there for four days before being rehomed. According to Roxy, he’s the Cuddle Master. “He really is the sweetest little soulful guy. He loves people and attention and is a good source of entertainment and joy.”
Those who adopt pit bulls or any “bully type” dog face specific challenges. As Roxy explains, “Luckily out here pit-bull type dogs are very popular, so we don’t get too much negativity, just sometimes people with small dogs crossing the street when they see him coming.” But Roxy and Kalani practice responsible dog ownership and understand and respect those who may harbor a fear of these dogs noting that Tutu does catch some people off guard just by his size. “He’s a big pup,” Roxy says.
But not long after the adoption took place Roxy and Kalani faced another challenge when during a routine vet check it was suspected that Tutu might have heartworm; thin, long white parasitic worms that despite their name do not live in the heart, but reside in the lungs of dogs (and cats). These worms can grow to be over a foot long beginning the first stage of their development in the gut of mosquitos before being transmitted to their unwitting furry host. After being injected into the mammal, heartworms enter the larval stage in the capillaries and skin of the dog followed by the adult stage where they reside in the dog’s pulmonary veins.
Heartworm infestation can be difficult to detect. Symptoms include a progressively worsening cough, anemia, difficulty breathing and a reluctance to exercise. Tutu’s treatment had to be delayed due to stomach issues from being on antibiotics for too long for a previous condition. “Our vet actually wouldn’t give him any new medication, including heartworm prevention, for months until his stomach healed,” Roxy explains. When he was cleared to get his medicines up-to-date, he was prescribed the Heartworm test which is always done before treatment starts. When his first result came back positive and a second test came back borderline Heartworm treatment began.
Roxy, Kalani and of course Tutu were fortunate. As Roxy recalls, “Tutu didn’t actually display any symptoms at all and we were lucky to have caught it very early and were able to get rid of the worms using only preventative treatments, patience, and rest.” Because his heartworm condition was not severe and he’s so young, and otherwise healthy, he didn’t have to undergo more extreme treatments.
After he was diagnosed heartworm positive Tutu was house-bound, and his movement restricted to keep his heart rate as low as possible. While the preventative medicine kills the heartworms, little bits of them can break off and travel to a dog’s heart causing great harm or worse. “We had to wait four months after his first dose of medicine to re-check for the heart worms. When he came back all clear we eased him back into physical activity, since we’d kept his movement to a minimum for so long,” Roxy recalls.
As is true for humans, so is for dogs and “an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure” and less expensive, too. With regular visits with a veterinarian, blood tests and providing once-a-month heartworm prevention meds, dog owners can effectively minimize, if not eliminate, the impact of this deadly disease. Other preventative measures include avoiding the times of dawn and dusk for walks and eliminating standing water where mosquitos lay their eggs.
In early January, on the occasion of Roxy’s birthday, she and Kalani received notice that Tutu was healthy! “We were able to take him down to the beach to watch the sunset with me to celebrate,” Roxy happily relays.
These days Tutu continues to enjoy the good life in his tropical paradise. According to Roxy, he’s a “resilient little guy,” and they’re working on his off-leash training at the beach to focus while being around other dogs. Although Tutu can be quite stubborn, he has no other behavioral or health issues. His only “flaws” seem to be that he’s a little bit of a bed hog and heavy sleeper at times.
It’s successful adoption stories like this that can have a positive impact on the dog-human bond and young adopters like Roxy and Kalani are excellent role models for intelligent and informed dog adoption. Their commitment to making Tutu physically and emotionally healthy sets a good example for everyone. I thank them for sharing their story and for bringing awareness to the serious issue of heartworm.
Mahalo, thank you, and much love to everyone in their endeavors to keep their pets happy and healthy.
“Every day’s a holiday. Some holidays are better than others.” Attribution Unknown
Welcome to a new year nearly three weeks in. The above is one of my favorite quotes because of its positivity. It reminds me that even a day that brings sadness and bad news contains something that is good, even if we have to search for it. It also reminds me of the myriad of holidays and observances, much like National Dog Week, that ask us to consider a topic we might otherwise overlook whether it be social causes, lesser known diseases and challenges, a forgotten figure in history, food and beverages and of course occasions that celebrate and honor our pets.
January presents among other observances National Train Your Dog, Walk Your Dog, and Unchain a Dog Month, Change a Pet’s Life Day and the lighter Dress Up Your Pet Day.
It occurs to me that Walk Your Dog and Unchain a Dog Month present two sides of the dog-human connection, while at the same time asking those who are good dog-guardians to be even more caring and engaged. Dog walking seems like a simple act at first, but the “art of dog walking” differs depending on where one resides. Suburban dog owners with large fenced-in yards may simply open a sliding glass door each morning to allow their dogs outdoor time. This may be ideal, but don’t forget that your dog(s) may become bored at times and might wonder what lies beyond that tall fence. Getting your dog out and about helps with socialization and may be good for their humans as they get some fresh air and exercise. Ironically many city-dogs may enjoy more walks than their suburban cousins, but those dogs must master elevators and stairwells and good timing. On the other paw, dogs of those who live in more rural areas may never see a leash, or don’t require a fenced in yard. These dogs wander leash-free and hopefully safely each and every day.
Sadly, some people still believe it’s alright to chain a dog in their backyards in the heat of summer and during frigid days and nights. In many cases these dogs have little access to food and water and live sad and lonely days. Many states have passed laws that give law enforcement the ability to take action to protect and rescue these unfortunate dogs. If you see a dog suffering please check with local authorities to see how you can help.
As for Change a Pet’s Life Day, I still hear people saying that shelter pets are somehow damaged goods without realizing how much these pets need another chance at having a good home and family. It asks potential pet owners to consider that when seeking a new family member. Dress Up Your Pet Day encourages the more playful and fun-side of having a pet, and as many of us in pet-writing biz know, pet-couture is a big industy filled with creative individuals. If you’ve ever witnessed a pet fashion-show, you can’t help but smile at the models on the run-way and appreciate the fact that many of these events raise funds and awareness for good causes.
And of course whether welcoming a new pup or an older dog to your home, set aside some time to work on obedience training, and seek professionals who can help develop good life-time habits that will strengthen the dog-human bond.
Has walking your dog lead you to new friendships or encounters that were life-changing? Have you ever helped a dog become unchained or worked to pass legislation that helped to free neglected dogs in your neighborhood or state? Do you design fashions for pets or have you changed the life of a pet through foster or rescue? If so, please share in the comment section or leave your stories over on the National Dog Week Facebook page. We love to hear from our readers. https://www.facebook.com/NatDogWeek/
My foster-to-furever dog, Teddy celebrates 6 years with us this month! He tolerated Dress Up Day!
The Dog Days may have officially ended, but the “Dog Daze” loom – can you believe National Dog Week – seven days of pure canine celebration – will observe its 90th Observation the week of September 24th?
Poster Stamps from Dog Weeks Past
Yes Virginia, there really is a Dog Week and if it had its own Santa, it would be Captain Wm. Lewis Judy, best known as Will Judy, the individual often cited as The Man who Brought America to the Dogs.
As his biographer, I would be remiss if I didn’t tell you that you could “read all about it” in a book I wrote titled Dog’s Best Friend: Will Judy, Founder of National Dog Week and Dog World Publisher (McFarland & Co. – 2014). If your school, or community library, doesn’t offer it, I hope that you’ll request that they acquire a copy, or two. With over 1,000 footnotes (I’m still recovering) it offers an overview of Judy’s publishing career told through his magazines, books and his never-ending promotion of his beloved National Dog Week launched in 1928.
To help keep the Week of the Dog a relevant part of American History, I launched a blog in 2010 (due to book writing my posts have been infrequent but I do hope to change that) and a Facebook Page to connect with dog-loving readers. Judy was also an art lover and promoted artists (as well as authors) whose work embraced that special dog-human bond. To that end, I created some art of my own that captures the enduring spirit of National Dog Week and all that it encompasses and Judy’s undying patriotism.
Someone once referred to me as the “Wizard of Dog Week” and that made me laugh. I sometimes get messages addressed to “Dear Sir” – from those who think Will is still with us sitting behind an Internet Wall dispensing “wise” observations about the role of dogs in our lives. Even as early as the 1930s, Judy was aware that dog-centric topics could be wrought with contention and controversy, but he handled his detractors with dignity and humor. Like Judy, I’m both encouraged by news items and incidents that inspire the world in the Ways of Dog; alternately dismayed when I see how far we still have to go on the path of enlightenment. The latter was never lost on Captain Judy. But he never gave up the good fight – trained in the ministry in his youth, he retained a unique spirituality that permeated his writings and approach to the dog-human bond.
Dog Week is YOUR week. Throughout the month of September, leading up to its 90th appearance on the American calendar, I’ll use its Community Facebook Page to offer excerpts from Dog’s Best Friend (and some of my other books) as we honor Dog Week’s rich and poignant history – a week that still calls for collective thoughtfulness and action on behalf of our beloved canines.
Please join us by “Liking” the official National Dog Week Community Page, https://tinyurl.com/y8o4mxzv share your love of all things dog, and become an active part of the observance’s unique history. I hope my Writing Story and works inspire. Thank you.
As above, so below. As within, so without. The Emerald Tablet, circa 3000 BC
Some of you who stop by this blog and my Author Page know that recently, we said “good-bye” to my younger sister, Manette. She helped me to launch this blog back in 2010 and I’ve written a tribute to her each year on the occasion of her birthday. I thank so many who’ve reached out with kind condolences for my family. These days, we spend a lot of time reminiscing – I’ve poured over photos and so many cards and letters she wrote me in the early 1980s, long before texts and posts were possible.
One memory stands out, however, a story I’ve never shared for fear some would think I was just a “Story” teller. But this true experience still resonates and has special meaning for me these days, especially.
Back around 2010, my husband and I began renting a home in the heart of Big Pine Key, about an hour east of Key West. We loved that house situated on a lagoon with the front yard facing a nature preserve filled with gentle inquisitive tiny Key Deer. We also love the memories formed there as we had so many visitors.
On one occasion, my sister and her husband David, came to spend some time in Big Pine. During her visit, my sister gave me a copy of the bestselling book The Secret. Written by Rhonda Byrne, it took the publishing world by a storm, selling zillions of copies. Published by Atria/Beyond Words in 2006, The Secret basically recounts the history of positive thinking, encouraging readers to visualize that anything is possible. The book has been embraced and scorned by many.
While I found no harm in reading the thoughts and quotes of many great minds joined in positivity, there was a great deal of doubting and much fun was poked in the direction of Manette, and myself, throughout the visit whenever the book was mentioned.
One of the practices suggested in the book is to visualize an object in your mind and this “thing” will manifest (ex. a coin on the ground, a white feather, a winning lotto ticket?). I recall thinking this was ridiculous, but I played along and visualized white pebbles. This was absurd, however, I realized because the entire front yard of the rental house was filled with millions of little white pebbles. Brilliant!
After my sister and her husband departed, I was out walking our late great Portuguese water dog, Hooper, when a pack of four young kids began circling us on bikes; they looked to be between ages 6-12. They spoke with a twang and told me they were from a town on the Georgia-Florida border. The oldest, a boy, proudly showed me his pocket knife. They were intrigued with Hooper and “our” house and asked for a tour. Not knowing these kids, and it not being “my” house, I had to decline. We talked for bit before they rode off to their own rental down on the end of the road.
The next day, the pack returned. It was Sunday and the family, who had rented a house just for a long weekend, would be leaving later that day. They played with Hooper and talked to me for a while then as kids will, got bored and pedaled home. The youngest, a quiet little girl stopped, however, and reached for something on the ground. She reminded me of my own sister, petite, brown-haired with blue-eyes – quiet. She circled back to me and when she returned, I inquired about her family for some reason. “Is that all of you?” I asked pointing in the direction of her siblings. She answered with a sad nod and told me that she had recently lost her only sister, the eldest sibling. I told her I had lost a brother just a few years earlier and knew how she felt. Then she held out her hand. “These are for you,” she said. She opened her small palm to reveal two small white pebbles. I was too stunned to speak. I just watched her ride off to join her brothers and sisters. I never saw them again.
I found those pebbles early this year, high up on a shelf next to a tiny angel-winged figurine of our late great “Hoop Girl”. Then, I found my copy of The Secret and reread what my sister had written to me several years ago, her words more meaningful than ever.
I can’t explain why certain things happen. People may think that I imagined this (my husband saw those kids) or say it was just a coincidence, but I like to think that everyday we are privy to small “secrets” that let us know everything really does happen for a reason, and these “small” moments let us know that everything will be okay.
Thanks again. Stay safe in the storms. Spring is near.
Congratulations to all my colleagues who received nominations and awards from the DWAA in their Annual Writing Competition, and a thank you to the Contest organizers and those who offered to read and judge entries in numerous categories.
This year, under the direction of DWAA President, Jen Reeder, and increased Social Media engagement, the competition attracted a record number of entries – up 24% from last year! We had entries from all over the world including Canada, Germany, Italy, Australia and Wales proving the love of dogs, and the writing of, has no boundaries.
I thank the judges for selecting my entry On the Scent of Life as the winner of the Short Fiction Category. The story was inspired by a chance meeting I’d had with a Cadaver dog handler, and his dog, in Florida several years ago. Something about that brief encounter stuck in my head and I’d always wanted to use it as a prompt for a story about the the dark side of those who do such hard work, and the impact it can have on these heroes. I wanted to share a story that ultimately shows that we can make choices to live in positivity, and in the present, and sometimes a little dog shall lead us, with a big thanks to Aimee Gertsch who also hosted my winning entry last year, Second Chances, with a similar theme. Read it here: http://4theloveofanimals.com/blog/2017/06/15/on-the-scent-of-life/
The Fiction award is special to me because many of the categories of the DWAA Writing Competition are created for works of Non-Fiction with a few designated for photography, graphics, painting, poetry and Short Fiction. I think that strong Fiction, inspired by true events, can create a story that sits long in the memory of a reader. I have no scientific evidence, it’s just something I think about as I write, even if the piece is ultimately a ghost story.
I’m also thrilled to relay that the Captain William Lewis Judy Award, sponsored by my local American Legion Post, was presented to author and DWAA Vice President, Laura Coffey who’s book My Old Dog, (recently declared a bestseller) took top honors in the Book Category in last year’s event. Laura, a writer/editor for the TODAY Show, wrote a moving piece about the relationship between a Marine named Matt and his retired military dog, Chaney, a story that appears in My Old Dog.
I also thank blogger Kristin Avery for giving my personal account Fostering Ginger a good home on her The Daily Pip site; it was a nominee in a Rescue Writing Category in this year’s competition. I’ve included that link as well. Read it here: http://www.thedailypip.com/search?q=Lisa+Begin-Kruysman
This year, I’ve also enjoyed being a contributor to Ruff Drafts, the official DWAA Newsletter. My feature, “Observance Breeds Awareness” presents a quarterly review of the days, weeks, and months of the year that have us thinking about all the ways man’s best friend enhances our lives, and inspires writers, bloggers and authors to find new and creative ways to share those stories with the world.
I thank those who stop by to read and those who give me appreciated feedback. May 2018, the Year of the Dog, be a good one for all!
Last Wednesday, the Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) announced the nominees of their Regular Categories for their Annual Writing Competition. The DWAA, formed in 1935, continues to support and reward writers, bloggers and authors who capture the essence of the human-canine bond on so many levels.
This year, for the first time ever, winners of Regular Categories, and those of the Special Awards category, will be announced before the DWAA Banquet in New York City held this year on the evening of February 10th. So, many of my fellow nominees, and DWAA members, will be excitedly watching on Wednesday, December 13th, at 7:00pm (EST) on the DWAA Facebook and Twitter sites as the results roll in!
Yes, I said fellow-nominees, because for the third year in a row, I was thrilled to discover that my writing had garnered notice. In 2015, my biography of DWAA Co-Founder, Will Judy, was nominated in the Reference Book category and last year I was honored with three nominations, taking home a Maxwell in the Short Fiction category and The North Shore Animal League America Award for my blog post on the topic of Spay and Neuter.
Teddy models the Maxwell: A very Sirius occasion!
This year, I’ve been nominated in the Short Fiction category for my short story On the Scent of Life about the personal struggle of a Cadaver dog handler, and for a guest blog post titled Fostering Ginger. Special Awards are “super secret” with no nominations, just that “And the winner is” moment! No matter the outcome, I’m honored to be nominated among such talented colleagues and wish all nominees the best.
Also last Wednesday, just after these announcements were made, I tuned into a webinar to reunite with fellow students and instructors from the Middle Grade Mastery course I’d enjoyed this past spring. The MGM course is one of many classes offered by Mira Reisberg of the Children’s Book Academy, and was co-taught by author Hillary Homzie. During the MGM course, I revised a Middle Grade novel with the personal input and one-on-one editorial guidance of Mira and enjoyed critique groups with fellow-writers from around the world, many who have remained in my Writing Universe.
During this hourlong gathering, those in attendance spoke about their journeys in securing agent representation and their submissions and subsequent review by editors. Mira and Hillary offered helpful insight to get us unstuck if we’re in a rut and suggested ways we can improve our chances of making 2018 a success for our projects.
Hillary reminded us to be mindful of our time by restricting time spent watching TV (sorry binge watchers) or on Social Media. She rightfully pointed out that even by writing one or two paragraphs a day, we are heading toward completion be it a Picture Book or a 45,000 word MG Novel. I also liked her reminder that when we’re unsure of where our character and plot are going, to stop and interview our characters to fully flush them out.
Mira encouraged us to mine our imaginations for all the possibilities and outcomes of a plot by asking the simple question, “So, what’s your premise?” It’s a deceivingly simple question, but one should be able to let an audience know the essence and purpose of your book in just a few sentences enticing readers to want to know more.
I’ve met many aspiring writers who feel that they don’t need writing instruction because they think all you need to do is think up a story and sit down at the keyboard. That’s a great start, but there’s so much more to it. Even with a gripping, well-executed manuscript, it isn’t easy to engage overworked literary agents and editors, or small presses and The Big Five publishers.
Part of the appeal of the MGM course, and others offered by the CBA, are that they include the involvement of some well-established agents and editors. Scholarships are also available and some students even receive a Golden Ticket from a participating agent, or editor, with an invaluable invitation to submit a Full Manuscript for serious consideration! The CBA courses use Facebook as their meeting base, so if you do take a course, be advised you’ll need to set up an account to participate.
My MGM project has endured many revisions, title changes and winding paths, but with each turn, it becomes a stronger story and I’m hopeful that it will find the right home in the coming year, embracing the mantra that it will land on “the right desk, at the right time”. While there is no course to find the exact moment of that winning combination, taking writing courses like those offered by CBA just might make that match a reality.
For the entire list of DWAA Writer’s Competition Nominees:
https://dogwriters.org/2017-nominees/
For more information on the Children’s Book Academy visit:
http://www.childrensbookacademy.com/
For a free webinar and Scholarship info: https://wj168-366180.pages.infusionsoft.net/
Work hard and practice Enlightened Persistence. To be continued!
Presentation to Manasquan River Artists Group (NJ)
Since 1990, I’ve participated in more than 500 art shows, my work has been displayed at numerous venues in the Tri-state area, and I’ve served as a board member and jurist, helping to organize several arts events. I’m grateful for all the judges, curators, colleagues and my clients who helped me to thrive as a productive working artist.
In my High School Art Studio, a perceptive art instructor encouraged me to use acrylics sensing it was a good medium for me (after watching me struggle with pastel and water colors). She also guided me to create my first painting on slate, a very forgiving surface. I’d go on to produce hundreds of these paintings. I still love working with the natural lines and quirks of each “rock” and find the slate surfaces (and now masonite) very receptive to acrylic paint, perfect for layering and changing one’s mind! Acrylic paints are also incredibly adaptable; just add water to thin for a watery effect, use additives to create body, highlight with oil pastels and spray on some gloss finish – magic!
In 1990, I began working with vintage postcards making them the focal point of my work. Although I haven’t kept track, I’ve created and sold well over 1,000 pieces. My artwork hangs on the walls of offices and homes throughout the world.
One of my former writing instructors once said to me that she believed writers were born, not made. Many feel that way about artists. Although art has always been a part of my life, I didn’t set out to have a career as a Fine Artist (or an author), but if it is true that we are born, or destined for a vocation, than the Creative World is one where I’ve learned I belong, even with all its inherent set backs.
The Art Show life presents many challenges; rain storms, high winds, blizzards, the ability (or inability) of an event promoter to promote, the health of the current tourism season (in the Northeast, H. Sandy ended many events), a weak economy and competitive venues offered by on-line options.
Then there are the long rides to get to show sites and the physical labor of putting up tents and displays and dealing with “neighbors” who encroach on your designated (and well paid-for) show space, or complain about how terrible an event is (I actually began writing as a way to shut out their negativity).
While I enjoyed my community of fellow-artists and customers, many who became friends, working so many weekends caused me to miss numerous occasions like weddings and family reunions.
For the past seven years or so, I’ve spent time transitioning to the life of a writer, but lately, missing the painting process, I’ve spent more time on that side of the loft (see previous post). Now, my aim is to create on-line marketing initiatives to help promote my artwork, relying on my Social Media platform, while retaining a handful of in-person events. It’s also rewarding to reconnect with returning customers who are happy to reconnect and add some new pieces to their collections!
As I patiently await some publishing news (something that is ongoing and comes with the territory), I find peace, inspiration and “my rock” in the process of painting where I can just add water and go with the flow or start over when ever I feel the need.
To follow me along the Creative Path, and of course check out art (and writing). Please LIKE my professional page and visit often as I’ll be posting paintings on a daily basis throughout December (and beyond). https://www.facebook.com/LisaBeginKruysmanAuthorAndArtist/
Thank you.
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