Personal Blog

My Must-Have Amazon Finds for Senior Dog Care

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As our beloved canine companions age, their needs change, requiring a little extra care and attention to ensure their golden years are comfortable and enjoyable. If you’re a pet parent to a senior dog, you understand the importance of providing them with the best support possible. I have a 13 year- old Yorkie whom I love with my entire heart and soul. He’s been with me since he was 2 months old, and as he continues to age, I want to make sure I’m providing the best care to enhance his quality of life. Thankfully, Amazon offers a variety of products designed specifically for senior dog care. Here are five essential Amazon finds that have become invaluable in caring for my furry old baby friend:


1. Orthopedic Dog Bed:

Investing in a high-quality orthopedic bed is essential for senior dog care, especially for those pups with arthritis or joint pain. My pup suffers from arthritis on his back and joint pain which is why I looked for a bed with memory or orthopedic foam that provides optimal support and comfort.

Buy on Amazon

2. Joint Supplements:

To support your senior dog’s joint health, consider adding a joint supplement to their daily routine. Products containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM can help alleviate stiffness and promote mobility. This brand was recommended by my vet about 2 years ago, and I have been using it ever since and we have no complains!

Buy on Amazon

3. Gentle Grooming Tools:

Older dogs may have more sensitive skin and coat issues, and sadly, they also become more anxious as they age. Choosing gentle grooming tools is crucial in my book. As my dog ages, his anxiety gets worse, to the point that he can no longer tolerate going to the groomer. My partner and I started to groom him at home, and that allows him to feel safe and extra comfortable. Look for a grooming kit with safety guards to help you cut your dog’s hair safely. Same with their nails; my main priority is my baby’s safety.

Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon

4. Doggie Steps:

As mobility issues arise with age, providing steps can help your senior dog access the couch and bed if they sleep with you. These products can prevent injuries and promote independence for your furry friend. This sturdy, non-slip doggie step is suitable and perfect for my dog’s size and weight.

Buy on Amazon

5. Bladder supplements:

If you are a parent of a Yorkie pup then you probably know they are prone to develop bladder stones. My baby has had 3 surgeries due to recurring bladder stones. After constantly researching what to give him to prevent the stones from coming back, I found the right supplement that prevents further bladder stone problems, and works great! I highly recommend this product to any doggie parent who’s struggling to maintain a healthy bladder for their pups!

Buy on Amazon

Caring for a senior dog is a deeply rewarding journey that requires patience, love, and attention to their evolving needs. By prioritizing their comfort, health, and happiness through the use of thoughtful products and compassionate care, we can ensure that our senior companions enjoy their golden years to the fullest. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs and health status. With the right care and support, your senior dog can continue to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Releasing self-limiting core beliefs

Do you ever feel like there’s an invisible force holding you back from reaching your full potential? Like there’s a voice in the back of your head whispering all the time, “You can’t do it” or “You’re not good enough”? If you said yes, my friend, you might be struggling with self-limiting core beliefs. Lately, I have become more aware of my self-limiting beliefs and how they stop me from following my dreams. In this blog post, I am going to share what I have learned about self-limiting core beliefs. How to recognize them, and most importantly, how to break free to reach our fullest potential and become the best version of ourselves!

Releasing self-limiting core beliefs

What are self-limiting core beliefs?

Picture this: you have a dream – maybe it’s starting your own business, traveling the world, or learning a new skill. Suddenly, you start doubting yourself, and think, “I’m not smart enough to run a business” or “I don’t have the time or money to travel.” And before you know it, your dream starts to fade away, buried under layers of self-doubt and fear. Self-limiting core beliefs are ideas we hold about ourselves and the world that prevent us from becoming our highest selves and reaching our fullest potential. Those negative thoughts are often based on past experiences and/or false assumptions. Luckily, we can overcome them and change the narrative towards a more positive one.

How to identify them?

Identifying self-limiting beliefs it’s like shining a light in a dark room—you have to be willing to explore the hidden corners of your subconscious mind. Pay close attention to the thoughts that arise when you’re faced with challenges or new opportunities. Write them down so you can see for yourself how those beliefs are influencing your current life. Ask the following questions when you notice those thoughts arise: Do I find myself making excuses or doubting my abilities? Are there recurring themes in my negative self-talk? These could be clues pointing to underlying self-limiting beliefs that you might have.

How to overcome core beliefs?

The good thing is that self-limiting beliefs are not set in stone. With awareness and intention, we can challenge them and replace them with more empowering thoughts. I am going to share some strategies to help you break free from your self-doubt:

  1. Awareness: The first step in overcoming self-limiting beliefs is to become aware of them. Pay attention to the thoughts that run through your mind and challenge them. Are they based on facts or unfounded assumptions? Tip: Try journaling. Sometimes seeing these things on paper help us wake up and realize how unhealed we really are.
  2. Challenge: Once you’ve identified your limiting beliefs, challenge them head-on. Ask yourself, “Is this belief currently serving me? Is it helping me grow? Is it aligned with this new version of myself?” More often than not, you’ll realize that these beliefs are based on fear rather than reality.
  3. Replace: Replace your negative beliefs with empowering affirmations. Instead of saying, “I’m not good enough,” tell yourself, “I am capable of achieving great things.” It may feel awkward at first, but with time and practice, these positive affirmations will become second nature. Tip: try saying the affirmations while looking at yourself in the mirror and see how you feel 😉
  4. Take action: The best way to overcome self-limiting beliefs is to take action despite them. Start small and gradually work your way up. Each time you step out of your comfort zone, you’ll prove to yourself that you’re capable of more than you think. And don’t forget to reward yourself 😉

Common Self-Limiting Beliefs

Fixed MindsetGrowth Mindset
I am not good enough.I am worthy and deserving of success and happiness.
I’m not smart/talented enough.I have unique talents and abilities. I am capable of learning and growing.
I always fail.I learn and grow from every experience. I am capable of overcoming challenges and achieving my goals.
I’m too old/young to pursue my dreams.It’s never too late/early to pursue my dreams. My age does not define my potential.
I’ll never be able to change.I have the power to change and grow. Every day, I am becoming the best version of myself.
I don’t have enough money.Failure is a stepping stone to success. I embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow.
I’m too shy/insecure to succeed.I am confident and capable. I embrace my uniqueness and use it to my advantage.
I’ll never be wealthy.I am open to receiving abundance in all areas of my life, including  wealth and prosperity. I am deserving of financial abundance.
I am not good with money. I am financially savvy and make wise decisions with my money. I am capable of managing my finances effectively.
I’ll never be able to get out of debt.I am taking steps to become debt-free and financially independent. I am capable of managing my finances responsibly and achieving financial freedom.

Remember, you are not defined by your self-limiting core beliefs. There are days where I still struggle to remember that I am changing my core beliefs. Don’t beat yourself up if you slip up here and there. You have to be willing to continue working towards a new you, even if you have bad days. You have the power to rewrite the script of your life and pursue your wildest dreams with confidence and determination. In other words, dare to challenge those limiting thoughts and embrace the limitless possibilities that await you on the other side. Your journey to self-discovery and fulfillment begins now!

My Favorite Personal Development Podcasts 

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery has never been more accessible, thanks to the power of podcasts. In this post, I’m going to share my favorite personal development podcasts that have become the guiding stars in my daily life. These shows offer a diverse mix of wisdom, self healing, mental health insights, and self-love tips—all packaged in short, easy-to-digest episodes. Let’s dive into my world of inspiration and personal growth together!

favorite personal development podcasts
  1. On Purpose With Jay Shetty

Jay Shetty’s podcast, “On Purpose,” has been a constant source of motivation and wisdom. With engaging conversations featuring leaders, celebrities, and different experts, Jay explores topics ranging from personal development to mindfulness, leaving listeners with valuable takeaways to apply in their daily lives. It’s a journey of self-discovery that never fails to uplift and inspire.

  1. SelfHealer Soundboard 

For those seeking a holistic approach to mental well-being, the SelfHealers Soundboard by the Holistic Psychologist is a gem. Dr. Nicole LePera dives into the depths of self-healing, providing practical tools and strategies to foster emotional growth. Her insightful discussions on breaking patterns and fostering self-awareness make this podcast a powerful guide on the journey towards mental wellness.

  1. La Magia del Caos 

Aislinn Derbez’s “La Magia del Caos” adds a touch of magic to the podcast realm. With captivating storytelling and a focus on life’s unpredictable moments, Aislinn and her guests share tales that inspire, entertain, and encourage listeners to embrace chaos as a catalyst for growth. This Spanish-language podcast is a delightful escape into the enchanting side of existence all while helping us evolve as a consciousness. 

  1. Se Regalan Dudas 

Another Spanish speaking podcast that I love very much, “Se Regalan Dudas,” hosted by Lety Sahagun and Ashley Frangie. This podcast effortlessly blends humor, authenticity, and life lessons. With a focus on self-improvement and personal growth, and mostly the need to question everything around us. This show brings different perspectives to the table allowing you to expand your consciousness and curiosity.

  1. The Self Love Fix by Beatrice

In a world that often demands perfection, Beatrice’s podcast, “The Self Love Fix,” is a breath of fresh air. This show helped me embark on my self healing journey back in 2020. Focused on self-love and acceptance, each episode encourages listeners to embrace their imperfections and foster a deeper connection with themselves. Beatrice’s relatable approach makes this podcast a comforting companion for anyone on a journey toward self-discovery.

And there you have it! These podcasts have become my go-to companions whenever I’m driving, working out or walking my dog, each show provides valuable insights and encouragement on my quest for personal growth. Whether you’re seeking purpose, healing, self-love, these shows offer a diverse range of perspectives and wisdom. Tune in, explore, and let these podcasts be the soundtrack to your journey of self-discovery. Remember, the magic begins when you press play.

How to make a digital vision board

How to make a digital vision board for 2024

The start of a new year typically brings the desire to manifest a new life. This refreshing and motivating feeling is the reason why so many people sign up at their local gym at the beginning of each year. Sadly, many of us struggle and find it extremely challenging to follow through with our resolutions each year. This year, I decided to do things a bit differently. As I mentioned in a previous post, I have a hard time creating new healthy habits and building self-discipline. That’s why I decided to create my first digital visual board to help me visualize my manifestations and to serve as a reminder of the person I am becoming. Especially on the days I feel like doing absolutely nothing.

What’s a digital vision board, you ask? Think of it as your personal collage of aspirations and dreams—a visual representation of your goals that’ll keep you motivated and focused throughout the year. Use it as a wallpaper for your laptop, tablet, or phone to serve as a daily reminder of what we are working towards this new year. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

What Do You Want To Manifest This Year?

Take time to reflect on the things you want to manifest this year. First, sit with it or meditate to connect with your intuition. Then, make a list and write it down or type it. Whatever works for you. Doing this step before getting started on the digital vision board makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Intension Setting

I believe this step is crucial when we are on the quest to manifest the life we envision. Setting intentions to manifest things is a way to actively engage with your desires and goals, align your energies, and create a mindset that supports the realization of those desires. Think of it as adding a little fairy dust to our goals and dreams and then letting the Universe do its magical thing 🙂

Picture Searching

My number one source for inspiration is, of course, Pinterest. When you are looking for pictures, make sure you select the ones that resonate with your desires. These pictures should make you feel really good and deeply connected to your goals and dreams. Look at all the details to ensure they align with what you are manifesting this year.

Let The Creativity Flow

I used Canva to create my digital board. Since I am already familiar with the platform, it made the process much easier and more fun. Plus, they have tons of templates to choose from. Don’t forget to grab your favorite drink and put on some music while you channel your inner Picasso. And remember, your vision board has to make sense to YOU.

Believe + Take Action

Lastly, remember that your vision board is a catalyst for action. Believe in the power of your dreams, but don’t forget to take steps towards them. Break your goals into achievable actions and work towards them consistently. You are more than capable of creating the life you envision. Your vision board is a roadmap—now it’s time to start the journey! If you believe it, you can archive it!

And Voila! And that’s how I created my digital board. I hope this post inspires you to craft your personal roadmap for an extraordinary 2024! May your vision board serve as a constant reminder of your limitless potential and the incredible adventures that await you.

Have you made a vision board before? What’s the most inspiring thing you’ve put on it? Let me know in the comments below!

How to make a digital vision board for 2024

My Top 5 “Personal Growth” Books to Read in 2024

Unlocking Potential: My Top 5 "Personal Growth" Books to Read in 2024

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It’s a new year. That means everyone is “ready” to change and transform into a new person by the 1st of January, right? Yeah, it sounds easier said than done. The start of a new year means working on the resolutions we made last month and hoping to stick to them this time around. I believe embarking on a journey of personal growth often involves seeking wisdom from different sources, such as books. In this blog post, I’m going to share my top 5 personal growth books that you can read in 2024. Each of these 5 books offers a different perspective that can help you during your journey of transformation, and can serve as a guide towards a more mindful and fulfilling existence.

My Top 5 Personal Growth Books

The Alchemist by Paolo Coelho

The Alchemist was one of the first books I read during my spiritual awakening back in 2020. This book is about a shepherd boy named Santiago and his journey to chase his dream. Throughout his journey, he learns about listening to his heart, following omens, and discovering his ‘personal legend.’ Paulo Coelho encourages us to do the same by following in the footsteps of Santiago and pursuing our own personal dreams. This book inspires readers to pursue their aspirations and teaches the importance of self-belief, perseverance, personal growth, and self-discovery.

Think Like a Monk by Jay Sherry

I received Think Like a Monk for my 30th birthday, and I believe it helped expand my awareness and practice mindfulness. Jay Shetty offers practical wisdom inspired by his time as a monk. Through personal stories and teachings, he shares tools for finding peace, purpose, and happiness. This book serves as a transformative guide for anyone seeking personal growth, offering relatable advice and actionable steps to bring about positive change in daily life.

The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

In my opinion, The Four Agreements is a book that you can read as many times as you want and not get tired of it. Don Miguel Ruiz shares powerful principles for personal freedom and transformation. He presents four simple yet profound agreements: be impeccable with your word, don’t take anything personally, don’t make assumptions, and always do your best. Don Miguel Ruiz draws upon ancient Toltec wisdom to provide practical insights for breaking self-limiting beliefs and fostering better relationships, making it an essential read for anyone seeking profound personal growth and positive change.

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

The Power of Now is one of those books that provides a profound realization about life and what it means to be living in the Now. Eckhart Tolle emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and being fully present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. He explains how embracing the ‘now’ can lead to inner peace and spiritual awakening. Through practical insights and exercises, Tolle teaches how to quiet the mind, detach from negative thought patterns, and find joy in the present. This book serves as a transformative tool for anyone seeking to live a more conscious and fulfilling life.

The Untethered Soul

The Untethered Soul was one of those books that took longer to finish. I needed extra time to fully process what I was reading and to self-reflect. The book explores the idea of freeing oneself from the inner voice, letting go of limiting beliefs, and transcending the habitual thoughts that hold us back. Singer guides readers to observe their thoughts and emotions without attachment, fostering a deeper understanding of consciousness and spiritual growth. Through practical teachings and mindfulness exercises, ‘The Untethered Soul’ also offers a pathway to inner freedom, presenting transformative insights for anyone seeking personal development and a more liberated way of living.

I hope My Top 5 Personal Growth Books inspire you to want to transform and become your best self this new year. These books aren’t just pages to be turned; they’re guides to be revisited, mentors to be cherished, and companions on our lifelong journey toward a more fulfilled and enlightened self. May we embrace the alchemy of our dreams, embody the monk’s wisdom, honor our agreements, live in the present moment, and nurture our untethered souls. Let these teachings continue to inspire, guide, and empower us on our journey towards a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.

<3

Mastering Self-Discipline; One Bad Habit at a Time

mastering self-discipline

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Do you ever find yourself setting ambitious goals, only to watch them fizzle out in a haze of distraction and procrastination? Welcome to the club, friend; you are not alone! Self-discipline sounds great on paper, right? But when it comes to putting it into action, let’s say, for me, it’s been an ongoing challenge. In this post, I’ll dive into my own personal world of battling with procrastination and share some tips that I have learned along the way to get a grip on mastering self-discipline.

Breaking the myth of mastering self-discipline

Let’s get this out of the way and say that procrastination is not laziness, as it is often perceived; it’s a behavior caused by the stress in our lives and/or unfounded negative beliefs we have about ourselves. In a previous post, I shared my struggle when I launched my blog last year and why I stopped posting for a few months. I had to be honest and call myself out for the lack of self-discipline I had and how I was letting another year go by without putting into action the plans I have for myself and what I envision for this blog.

I have learned that procrastination is a complex behavior, usually influenced by different factors. In my case, the fear of not doing something perfectly or failing altogether leads to procrastination. It’s a way to protect myself from potential disappointment or negative feedback. I also have horrible time management skills, which makes it extremely difficult to prioritize tasks or manage time effectively, and results in delaying important tasks until the last moment. Reading “Atomic Habits” by James Clear helped me open my eyes and see that I desperately needed to fix my bad habits to align with new person I am trying to become.

Personally, my journey with mastering self-discipline has been like a roller coaster with ups and downs. There are days when I’m conquering and checking everything off from my to-do list. Then, there are some days when I find myself spending hours on the couch rewatching Grey’s Anatomy for the 20th time or scrolling endlessly on social media. And so, the guilt and shame overtake my entire being and I end up feeling like a failure by the end of the day for “wasting another day” without being productive.

I am going to share some strategies and tips that I have been testing during the past few months that I believe are helping me overcome this personal struggle with mastering self-discipline:

Build Habits Gradually

Would you lift 100 pounds on your very first day at the gym? No, right? It’s the same way with self-discipline. Start with small habits and gradually increase them. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither are strong habits.

Habit Tracking

I am a visual person; I like to see on my Iphone or on paper my progress because it motivates me to keep going. Nowadays, there are different apps that can help you keep track of your habits. You just have to find the right one for you.

iPhone App Limit

Honestly, I am still struggling with this one. But adding an app limit, especially for social media, is helping me be aware of how much time I am spending scrolling on IG or TikTok. Some days I am able to follow the 1-hour limit I gave myself, and other days I simply ignore it. Let’s use technology to tackle one bad habit at a time!

Positive And Negative Reinforcers

Getting a reward or celebrating an accomplishment, no matter how small, motivates me to keep going. The same goes with punishing myself for not keeping up with my word. Both help increase the goal or habit that I want to achieve. The only thing here is that I have to be 100% honest with myself. Which leads me to…

Accountability Buddy

Sharing my goals with my partner and asking him to hold me accountable when I’m slacking helps a lot. Having that extra support keeps me in check, and at the same time, it motivates me to work harder to fix my negative habits.

Don’t Be Hard On Yourself

This one is the most important one, IMO. Remaining kind to myself while I am in the process of learning and adapting a new skill is a must. No one was born knowing everything. I’m constantly reminding myself that it takes practice and time to become a self-disciplined person, especially after spending a lifetime being the complete opposite. 

So, there you have it—my self-discipline saga, straight out of the millennial playbook of my life. It’s been a roller coaster, complete with loops of progress and unexpected drops of procrastination. Adulting isn’t just about paying bills and mastering TikTok recipes; it’s also about being honest with ourselves. Embracing the journey, learning from slip-ups, and celebrating even the smallest wins. So, to my fellow millennials struggling with mastering self-discipline and procrastination, keep pushing forward, keep learning, and let’s enjoy this crazy ride together! You are not alone!

Mastering Self-discipline

How I Decorate My Small Loft For Christmas

Loft decorations

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Guess what time it is? It’s the season to sleigh! 🎄🎁❄️

The Holiday season is my favorite time of the year. Who doesn’t love being all bundled up and cozy while rewatching our favorite holiday movies or series? I’m currently watching Gilmore Girls for the first time; yes, I know I’m extra late. When it comes to my loft, I always try to make it extra cozy and festive. Decorating my small loft for Christmas and turning it into my version of a winter wonderland heals my inner child, one decoration at a time. I have included some alternative decorations to inspire you to transform your personal space into your own little winter wonderland and to get into the holiday spirit.

How I decorate small my loft for Christmas

1. Christmas Tree Magic

As always, I keep it nice and simple. I like to think that my tree is somehow a reflection of my inner child. Since I am a huge Disney fan I like to use a Mickey Mouse Santa hat that I’ve had for awhile as a tree topper. To ground it, I prefer using a tree collar to give a more cozy vibe to my place.

Loft decorations

2. TV Stand

I continued with the color theme of my Christmas tree and added a vibrant Nutcracker and some small pine trees along with a Be Merry wooden sign. To save extra money on decorations, I like to put ornaments in clear vases and add small LED lights to create a more cozy ambiance.

Loft decorations

3. Window Treatment 

The main thing I love about my loft is the industrial window; natural light is priceless in my book. Having this type of window allows me to have a little bit of extra space to decorate and add more character to my place.

Loft decorations

I love hanging stockings, especially ones with initials for each member of the family. It’s the little things for me. Christmas without a snowman or gnome decorations is like pizza without cheese—just plain sad. You get idea.

Loft decorations

4. Shelf Treatment 

Adding some red berry stems pine branches to a vase set which makes it look jolly. To continue with the theme color around the loft, I included a red Christmas tree, a gold reindeer and a small nativity set.

Loft decorations

5. Coffee Table 

Can’t go wrong with an artificial christmas tabletop to transform the coffee table and make it festive.

Loft decorations

So there you have it. This is how I decorate my small loft for Christmas. With a sprinkle of creativity and some holiday magic, my loft has transformed into the perfect cozy retreat filled with festive vibes. Hope this inspires you to get creative with your holiday decorations too! 

Happy holidays, everyone! 🎄🤶🏼✨

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