On April 8, 2014, the launch for my book The Power of Pets had finally arrived! We had all come together for this exciting book launch & Gala fundraiser, however on a bigger scale, there was an important message that popped out at me. We were all there in that room because we shared a common bond and respect for animals and pets and the energy there, that evening, was magnificent.
I was fortunate to have my mentor Gerry Robert join the audience via Skype and JG Franceour did a top notch job as the Emcee.
Barbara Cartwright, CEO of the Canadian Federation of Humane Society gave a heartfelt talk. She is an incredible speaker. Randy Valpy “Top Dog” at Pets Plus Us insurance company and Dr. Debbie Stoewen, the CEO (Care and Empathy Officer) at Pets Plus Us played a huge role in making this event happen. I am extremely grateful.
A special thank-you goes out to Nestle Purina Pet Care, Pawsway Discovery Centre and all of the sponsors who made this night so special. Everyone seemed to be connected.
During my speech, I invited the audience to light a virtual candle together for the pets of today and yesterday. I spoke about my Dad, Ralph Haines 2nd, who passed away 20 years ago. Years after his passing, I would be pleasantly surprised to find a file folder that was labelled “I’m going to write a book.”
I knew my Dad loved writing and reading however I didn’t really know he had started the process – a process that he hadn’t been given the time to finish. In this file folder, were pieces of paper with ideas written on them.
I brought the file folder with me that evening and took a moment to pay tribute to my Dad. Perhaps in some way, my Dad and I had worked together and I celebrated this connection. We had “finished” it together and it was a great feeling.
I truly believe that when you have a vision and it becomes a reality, it gets you thinking about what is truly possible when you believe in the work that you do. Good people and good energy makes a successful book launch!
When I returned home, my husband Troy and I were greeted by our beautiful orange and white cat, Mooshie who rolled around on the carpet as if to congratulate us and tell us that yes, it was now time to relax.
I wish to express a huge thank you to all of the partners who made this event such an incredible success and believing in The Power of Pets!
Now the FUN work begins! This is just the beginning and sharing in empowering connections between pets and people brings me great joy! I look forward to continued sharing together with you all.
When we connect together, we unite together! Let’s keep the fire burning and celebrate our pets of today and yesterday! To be continued…..
Love and hugs,
Marybeth