2 Lion-Hearted Groomers

Part 6

I admit this is a little lengthy for a blog (as most of mine usually are), but I wanted to comment on some of the highlights and memorable details that I recalled that I wanted to share with you regarding this winning experience. Sally, Gwen, Todd and the Barkleigh staff really out did themselves for putting on such a fantastic show!

If every picture tells a story, then I have about 50 of them to share. You can view them as a slide show by clicking on to www.freewebs.com/2LHG Photo Gallery. If you would like to read about my 2009 Groom Expo experience at Hershey, then please sit back, relax have a drink and enjoy.

On a side note, the one thing that impressed me the most throughout my whole experience at Groom Expo was the people whom I met there. I couldn't get over how friendly everybody was towards me; how welcoming they were and that I was always included in all of their conversations anytime I sat down to one. I was very grateful for the warmth I received in the days that followed. It was like visiting my east coast family of pet care professionals.

Thursday, 09/17/09:

After de-parting from the dual-propped plane that I rode in on from Harrisburg, I was feeling a bit uneasy as I was walking away from that aircraft with the lingering thought that as a passenger, this type of aircraft was never my favorite. It just looked so old and outdated and being that the prop was so close to my window, I kept wondering on the way over from Cleveland "what if the technician who worked on this aircraft last had a bad day and didn't fasten the props on correctly?" I kept picturing in my mind that any minute, the prop was going to fly off during mid flight.

My concerns quickly faded away as I entered the terminal building from the tarmac as I was greeted by Zack, the Hershey Lodge shuttle driver who held up the sign that read "Hershey Lodge" on it. I was elated when I realized that his reception was for me. After my day long commute from Ontario Airport in California starting at 5:00 A. M. to Sky Harbour Airport in Phoenix (plus changing terminals at Sky Harbour that required me to traverse across the airport about the length of Rhode Island to make that change), to Cleveland and then on to Harrisburg, I was ready to kiss that man for rescuing me at the Harrisburg Airport. Whew - what a day!

It was close to 10:00 P. M. by the time we drove to the lodge. I knew that I missed the Internet Social once I got there, but maybe there might be somebody at the bar or lounge afterward that I could talk to. When we drove up in front of Hershey Lodge, the first thing that I noticed was the large, rustic looking reception area and how Hershey Lodge paid meticulous attention to cleanliness and noted many of the unusual details throughout their facility. I was mesmerized by Hershey Lodge's architectural design that included a gorgeous fireplace in the lounge that completed this setting beautifully.

After I had checked in to my room, I quickly returned to the lounge area where I had met Ellen Ehrlich, the author of her book "Go Mobile and Succeed" and a few of her friends who joined her while she was enjoying her Chocolate Martini. It was a really fun time for me as we all talked, laughed and getting to know them better. On a few occasions, I went outside to the patio area and was intrigued by the multi-colored chile pepper garden that adorned the fringes of the patio area. I had never seen this type of ornamental garden before and being the star-struck tourist that I was, I felt like a little kid seeing Santa Claus for the first time as I had noticed many of the familiar faces of the GHI contestants who frequently showed up at the patio area where I was. I can honesty say that I was genuinely happy for the opportunity of being able to meet, shake their hands and exchange conversation with them as well. It was 12:30 A. M. by the time I retired to my room where Hershey's Chocolate Kisses awaited for my return on the coffee table. I had thankfully laid my weary body down into a comfortable bed to re-charge for the next busy day ahead of me.

Friday, 09/18/09:

It was my orientation/educational seminar day. I double-checked my class times, but I also wanted to see Groom Expo as a whole. It was no doubt that I made my way to the Registration area where I found Frank, the Groom Expo Greeter for the show and also Debbie, our tour guide (although her tour was known as "Debbie and the Newbies"). We were given designer doggy visors to wear for the tour so that we could be seen by our group members (or other people). Our first stop was the fountain of chocolate candy and helped ourselves to an abundance of chocolate kisses, candy bars and other sinfully delicious candy assortments. I was taken aback by all of the sights and sounds as we were led around the vast expanse of the convention hall that included and was jammed packed full of vendors, exhibitors, artists, staff members and attendees. We were shown all of the grandeur of the ballroom, lounges, classrooms, staging areas, the silent auction, the competition and downstairs demo areas and of course the trade show as a whole. This show was massive and on much grander scale than I could have imagined. This show was incredible! 

I had planned on attending several classes this day, but that count minimized because of the the unexpected attention I paid towards the trade show. I wanted to see EVERYTHING. I was like a kid at Disneyland but only for pet care professionals and one that I couldn't get enough of. It was during this time that I had met up with Lisa Leady who had just finished up with her demo at the Wahl booth and I showed her my 2LHG bookmark so that she would know who I was.

My first impression of Lisa was that I liked her immediately. She is definitely a warm and gracious person. She told me that she loved reading 2 Lion-Hearted Groomers. She related to the storyline and thanked me for making her laugh, cry and how it reminded her of how fortunate she was for having such wonderful clients of the two and four-footed kind. She also told me that my co-authors and I did a great job of pulling people into the story. Needless to say, I was both humbled and encouraged by her review and treasured her words immensely. She autographed my newly acquired Kenchii Shear Scorpion case and we exchanged hugs at our parting. What a memorable experience that was for me!

When it was lunch time, I was treated to a fabulous meal and checked out some more booths that took up most of the afternoon until dinner time when I met with Ellen and her friends at the Bear's Den where we enjoyed the camaraderie of each other's company. We exchanged our books with each other along with our autographs. As I viewed some of the pages of her book, I couldn't help but be impressed with her life's experiences and her "spot on" theories on how to succeed through her mobile grooming guidelines. Dang this girl is good!

By the time I was finished with dinners, it was time to get ready for the 80's party. I didn't bring a costume for the event, but my event was climbing into a dress for the first in a long, long time (not to mention the high heels that went with it). I had a wonderful time and danced to the awesome sights and sounds on the dance floor to the music provided by "Mr. B."

Saturday, 09/19/09:

The late nights combined with the lack of sleep (including jet lag) was starting to catch up with me. I requested a "wake-up call" for 7:00 A. M., but couldn't commit to it. With a three hour time difference, it was like waking up at 4:00 A. M. to me. I simply rolled over and went back to sleep and made my way down to the V. I. P Lounge around 10:30 A. M. I feeling a little guilty for my complaceny, but things happen for a reason and this unpredictable timing led to Mr. Dan Williams of EZ-Groom. He was sitting in the lounge and figuring up some invoices when I met him. I sat down and personally introduced myself and told him that I was the winner of the Petgroomer.com/Barkleigh trip to Hershey. We shook hands and exchanged information about ourselves and our businesses and it was when I told him about the book called 2 Lion-Hearted Groomers. As we became better acquainted, I found him to be a very genuine person in terms of his kindness, knowledge and education. Unknown to me at the time and revealed later at the trade show, I found him to be quite the "rock star" with his product line as he and his associates were constantly selling EZ-Groom products at a very fast pace.

One thing I can distinguish about Mr. Williams was his kind and gracious invitation he extended to me by allowing me to promote 2 Lion-Hearted Groomers at his booth. In turn, I would do my best to promote his product line on the west coast. Of course I came prepared with my own promotional products regarding 2LHG by bringing 2LHG book copies, a sign, flyers, and business cards. I was so deeply grateful that Mr. Williams afforded me this wonderful opportunity to promote I can't thank him enough!

EZ-Groom had a fantastic location for me to set up. It was on the corner and right in the middle of everything. Even though it was a tight fit for all of us in that booth, we made it work nonetheless. Mr.Williams introduced me to dozens, maybe even hundreds of pet care professionals who visited or passed by his booth for both Saturday and Sunday I promoted there as the the Petgroomer.com/Barkleigh winner and also as the co-author of 2LHG. A little while later, Sally came by and invited me to come to the Barkleigh booth to promote from there. After that, Todd Shelly and Cassandra stopped by and interviewed me as the winner of the Hershey trip for Barkleigh T. V.and again, I was able to promote 2 Lion-Hearted Groomers to them.

I was able to attend most of the luncheons and dinners offered by Barkleigh over the weekend, but one event stood out in my mind that I remembered the most which was called "Dancing With Dogs". I was totally amazed by the routines, the dog breeds that performed and the handlers who participated in this event and who couldn't forget the finale when Sasha from Serbia sang a beautiful song. I considered Sasha's talent for singing this opera piece as breathtaking. His performance was so compelling and so refined, that it brought tears to my eyes. With every rise and fall of the song's composition, I was so blown away by how he was able to project his intense bravado and the way he delivered the song. He's definitely theater arts material in my mind and what a gift he has! What an awesome performance he gave. Wow!

Sunday, 09/20/09:

It was another beautiful pristine day in Hershey. The leaves on some of the trees were just starting to turn yellow and comfortable temperatures surrounded gentle breezes in the parking lot where this anticipated event was being held. It's Mobile Grooming Round Up day! I never get bored seeing all the different mobile units that exhibit at this event. From Hanveys, Wagn' Tails, custom R. V. conversions, box vans, trailers and ... a porta-potty conversion? Wait! This is definitely a new mobile grooming conversion that I hadn't considered. I had to do a double-take on this one, but I had to regard it as a true ingenious invention for all of the attention that it received by many.

True to form, the Creative competition never disappoints me. I was fascinated by the many concepts the contestants of this event provided. The colors, the props, the designs, the music accompaniment and the incredible skill and talent that it took to put these presentations together. The Lion King, the Dairy Cow and the Crayola designs took the awards however, I admired and respected all of the hard work that went into all of the entries. Bravo to all of the contestants who participated. You all deserve an award in my opinion! 

After the close of the 2009 Groom Expo, I treated myself to a nice dinner at the Hershey Grill and then milled around the now empty convention hall and talked to a few people who remained before they were to go home the following day. As I walked back to my room that evening, I regarded my Groom Expo experience a very winning one indeed. It was fun, informative, exciting and exhausting (all at the same time) and an experience that I know I can take home with me. Many friendships and acquaintances were formed, opportunities were realized and the food and entertainment was great.

A week has already gone by since I returned home to my little corner on the west coast. Even though I was greeted by another heat wave when I returned to work, it paled in comparison to the 2009 Groom Expo event that I had just attended. It was a HOT! and what a fantastic and rare opportunity this was for me to be a part of something really wonderful. I will always be thankful to Petgroomer.com and Barkleigh Productions for making this trip to Hershey as a dream come true for me. THANK YOU!

Blogging off and thank you for stopping by.

Donna

Part 5

Sunday, September 13, 2009. It had been a busy week not only for me, but all around me as well. The Station Fire is nearly contained with a full containment expected on Monday. By far, the Station Fire is the largest fire in history for Los Angeles County and the Angeles National Forest. Sadly, this was a human caused fire that spanned 250 square miles and costing 1.4 million dollars to contain. It had taken the lives of 2 firefighters, 80 homes and massive amounts of forestry land which is now deemed a criminal investigation (an extremely difficult feat at best) to find the suspects who caused this fire.

On Friday, I hung out the American flag in front of my home to honor and remember the 9/11 W. T. C. victims, including the rescue/recovery dogs who later died from breathing in the dust after the towers collapsed. I wanted to remember the 2 firefighters who died in the Station Fire and to also honor the on-going efforts of the firefighters who continues to protect our mountain ranges. Hanging that American Flag was my solemn reminder of those tragic events and a symbolic testament of my appreciation to the dedicated men and women who protect our lives, security, infrastructure and our forests.

My focus turned from the San Gabriel Range, to the Poconos and the State of Pennsylvania. Not only is this a beautiful state, but a very historic one indeed. For example, it's nicknamed the "Keystone State" because it is known to be one of the thirteen original colonies. Pennsylvania's strength held the colonies together like a "keystone" of an arch.

Some other historical facts I found interesting was that the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were both written in Philadelphia. York, Pennsylvania was the first Capital of the United States and Betsy Ross made the first contemporary American Flag in Philadelphia. From the Revolutionary War to the Civil War - this is where it all started.

Hershey, Pennsylvania also called the "Sweetest Place on Earth," was named after humanitarian, philanthropist Milton S. Hershey in 1905. Surrounded by dairy farms, Mr. Hershey left his legacy by building a model community to include a resort, a foundation dedicated to cultural and educational enrichment, and a highly specialized medical center. In addition, Mr. Hershey provided a trust company, built a school for children in need and of course, his famous company known for producing quality chocolate and confectionery products.

"This is quite an amazing place," I thought. "Even the weather appears to be a lot more comfortable there than here in Glendora." "I wonder if the fall foliage is starting to turn, or if there's going to be rain when I get there?" "I'll have to be sure to check the weather before I leave." "I'm SO elated by this wonderful opportunity of being able to go to Hershey and Groom Expo!" "The days are fast approaching before my departure date, but at least I'm as ready as I can be." "I'm nearly packed, I changed my out-going message, my check off list is nearly complete and my "absentee" instructions are in place. I now have a rare and infamous "little back dress" ensemble to add to my wardrobe for the Friday night 80's party."

Not all has been perfect with my preparations. About two weeks ago, I attempted to change my airline reservations to depart on Wednesday instead of Thursday. However, the airlines had a different idea and wanted to charge me an additional $150.00 to add to my original fare, plus extra fees. Their counter fee proposal convinced me to stay with my original flight plan and I'll be arriving in Harrisburg at 8:37 P. M. (EST) after all.

I also confirmed my hotel reservations with the Hershey Lodge. To my surprise, I learned that I was booked and tagged on to share a double with two men in the same room. Hm-mm ... I like to think of myself as an open-minded, easy-going type, maybe even adventurous to some degree. But this arrangement (I decided), wasn't going to work. I pictured in my mind what this person's surprised expression would be if I arrived to "our" room with my suitcase in hand. I was amused and smiled to myself at the notion, but I did contact the Lodge and sent an email to Barkleigh describing the "situation." I was later contacted by my potential "roommate" who informed me (and quite possibly to his relief), that our hotel reservations had been separately corrected. Whew!

Aside from the seminars, the trade show, the glitz, the glamor, and the pageantry that Barkleigh is well known for in producing first class shows, I thought even more about my place in professional pet grooming of nearly 25 years. I started thinking about my personal and professional objectives, the pets I am privileged to groom and the circumstances that I am presented with on a daily basis. I came up with a poem that touched on these thoughts. I wanted to express our sincere desire as professionals, our disciplines and the dogs that we serve. I wrote it through the gentle perspective of a dogs' innocent, yet child-like persuasion, proclaiming what we do best. It's called "Bless The Dog Groomers."

"Bless The Dog Groomers," by Donna Smith, C. A. H.

Dear God,

Bless the Dog Groomers, -

 Both near and far, -

From stateside and abroad, -

Wherever they are, -

 

And bless the Groomers -

Who go to shelters, -

Bless their hearts, -

And caring thoughts. -

 

For us who wait, -

Our fates unknown, -

They don't hesitate, -

Their love is shown. -

 

You give them kindness, -

And patience too, -

We can be difficult, -

And a challenge to do. -

 

You gift their hands, -

With precision and passion, -

A professional manner, -

Integral to Masters. -

 

...and God,

 

Let them feel pride, -

For their jobs well done. -

And let them feel solace, -

If it couldn't be won. -

 

I may be a dog, -

Who champions my breed, -

Or a companion dog, -

Who helps my owners' needs. -

 

I might be a matted dog, -

With fleas and ticks, -

Or that filthy dog, -

From out in the sticks. -

 

and don't forget ...

 

That pretty, pink Poodle, -

From Park Avenue, -

Or even that Designer Dog, -

That glitters from "Holly-doodle." -

 

 we know that ... 

When we're finished, -

We feel refreshed, -

Our coats are trimmed, -

With skilled finesse. -

 

But one thing is true, -

Our tails will show, -

We thank these dear Dog Groomers, -

With the Love You know."

Amen ... (Wuff).

 

Blogging off and see ya' at the show!

Donna

 

 

 

Part 4

Today, is September 6th, 2009 and 10 more days to show time. Throughout this week, the fires in the national forest above my home raged on. The good news is that the smaller fires on the east side of this range were either quickly contained or immediately extinguished. Unfortunately, the Station Fire on the west side of the Angeles National Forest was the monster that consumed the media air waves. Tragically, this fire had taken the lives of two firefighters, while dozens of others had been injured. Seventy-eight homes were destroyed in the blaze and 157,000 acres had been charred.

Efforts to save Mr. Wilson from this fire continues to be a grave concern because of its location and it's where vital communication equipment is mounted that serves the Los Angeles basin. Major receiving installations, e.g., antennas, many of which contribute to T. V. and F. M. stations along with cell phone towers, plus a historic observatory is also located at this site. The battle to defend this area continues around the clock by thousands of firefighters (5,400 of them). By day, the dousing of the fire line continues non-stop with water-dumping helicopters, not to mention the 747 air tankers that dropped thousands of pounds of fire retardant around this site. I'm sure this will a fire that will be long remembered after it's extinguished.

As I write this blog, another water-dropping helicopter is flying en route to Mt. Wilson. The heat wave that lasted all week, had finally lowered to a more comfortable range this morning. The smoke and ash particles that once infiltrated that air had dissipated however, the persistent haze continues to hover over the foothills near my home.

Other than the fires, another busy week on my route had passed and now I can think more clearly about the seminars and the fun things that are being offered at the Hershey show.  "Hmmm ... let's see - I've already highlighted in yellow the seminars I plan to attend. The Cat Grooming seminar is one I should definitely consider." Thinking back from a particular incident that affected me a couple of years ago, I made the decision from that point on to exclude cat grooming from my services. The reason being was because the last cat that I had groomed, had beaten me up pretty badly. My confidence level I received after this feline encounter really took a nose-dive after that.

I had just finished hand drying this cat and at the time, he didn't appear to be stressed. Then all of a sudden, he panicked and lashed out at me. He bit down very hard on my hand with pin point accuracy and scratched me with lightening speed. He composed himself after a few moments and he was fine right after he released me. I immediately secured him in his carrier, contacted his owner and wrapped my bleeding hand in a towel while I continued with my clean up efforts. I recalled of how frustrated I was with myself because I misread this cat's behavior that ultimately caused my injury. It was then that I decided at that point that cat grooming was no longer an option for me. Maybe if I attend this seminar, I could perhaps restore my confidence by learning a different technique to effectively handle skittish cats in the future (I hope).

As I read more of the show program, I noticed an interesting announcement that mentioned a "make-over" and a grooming wear fashion show for groomers. "How fun!" I thought. Thinking more on the subject, I wondered if anything could be done with me? Would a human hair stylist want to do something with my waist-length hair? "Well, as long if they don't cut it or dye it green, there might be some promise to this possibility." "Maybe I should give this some more thought and sign up for this one," I concluded.

Reading on, I thought of the excursions outside of the show. I wasn't sure if I had the time, but the one scheduled for Saturday night could work. Maybe, I could see some countryside before I go to the airport on Monday after the show. "Oh, what's this?" I wondered. "It looks like there's going to be an early morning religious service on Sunday. "Good to know - it should be good," I concluded. As I closed the pages of the program, I reflected on how truly grateful I am to Barkleigh and Petgroomer.com and the fantastic efforts they've made for us over the years to make us more cohesive.

I thought back to a time in 1985 when I graduated from grooming school. PC's, cell phones and Petgroomer.com was non-existent. Barkleigh had just established themselves during that time however, I was unaware of their existence until I attended their show in Burbank in 1994. Up until then, the Long Beach trade show was the only local industry trade show that I knew of. Petgroomer.com. came on-line in 1997, but it wasn't until 2002 when I received my first PC (and an internet provider) that I finally became aware of their web site.

Looking back at that time and where these entities are now, I am totally amazed by their incredible, yet progressive growth and their sincere desire to see us succeed professionally. These remarkable people who we see at the trade shows and the ones behind the scenes are truly awesome and I applaud them whole-heartedly for their on-going efforts in serving us so faithfully.

It makes me wonder where we as groomers, would be without the benefit of their communication, promotion, marketing, education and recreational opportunities they've offered to us so generously over the years. I believe that a lot of us have enjoyed the fruits of our successes because of their valuable influences. As a result, I wish to extend my deepest and sincerest appreciation for everything they've envisioned for our benefit. My words are simple, yet profound: "Thank you Barkleigh and Petgroomer.com for all that you've done for us!"

Blogging off and thank you for stopping by.

Donna