#ThirdDegreeThursday October 5

#ThirdDegreeThursday

Every Thursday, I host a segment called #ThirdDegreeThursday, where I engage with my blog readers and video viewers by posing a thought-provoking question. This week, I've got a delightful topic centered around our beloved animal companions: "What is your favorite type of pet?" As an animal enthusiast, I must admit that I have a special place in my heart for various creatures, with cats and dogs reigning supreme. In fact, our household is a cozy sanctuary for four remarkable feline friends, each with a unique and heartwarming tale.

Cat Parenthood

Our journey into cat parenthood began with a chance encounter on a busy highway. A compassionate soul rescued a little black cat darting among speeding cars, and this feline found her forever home with us. We named her Anise, a nod to her licorice-like charm.

SPCA

The second addition to our feline family was Makena, a mesmerizing-eyed cat we stumbled upon at the SPCA in Edmonton. It was love at first sight, and there was no resisting those enchanting eyes.

Wailea

Then came a serendipitous encounter on a fateful night—a tiny, tender kitten showed up at our back door. My partner, Suheel, who had a "two-cat household rule," couldn't resist the call of destiny. This little one melted our hearts, and we named her Wailea. Her disappearance and miraculous reappearance at our front door cemented her place in our lives.

Fourth Cat

And then, there's Quattro, aptly named because he became our fourth feline family member. His story is one of resilience. He appeared at our back door, looking rough and undernourished. Initially, we intended to connect him with the Second Chance Animal Rescue Society (SCARS), but due to the pandemic, they were unable to take in more animals. So, we embarked on a mission to ensure his survival.

Colder Outside

As the weather grew colder, Suheel purchased a heated cat house to provide Quattro with shelter from the brutal -40-degree temperatures. I continued to feed him, and he became a regular visitor for food, water, and warmth. Despite my persistent attempts, SCARS remained unable to take him in.

Snowy Evening

One snowy evening, with temperatures plummeting to -30 degrees, Quattro arrived at our door again, this time covered in snow. I trying to help him, brushed the snow off him...but alas, the snow melted on him. Concerned for his safety, as we didn't want him to freeze, we decided to bring him indoors. After some hesitation, he cautiously stepped inside, and I quickly ushered him into the bathroom for shelter. We set up a cozy space for him with food, water, and a litter box. Initially, he was terrified, but gradually, he warmed up to us and became an integral part of our feline family.

Adoration

We adore all our cats—Anise, Makena, Wailea, and Quattro. Never in my wildest dreams did I envision having four cats, but the love and joy they bring into our lives make it an absolute heaven for us.

Now you....

Now, it's your turn to share your favorite pet stories. What type of animal steals your heart as the perfect companion?

Soulful Rocks: Painting, Meditation & Connection Stones

Soulful Rocks: Painting, Meditation & Connection Stones" (previously called “My World Rocks!”) is an online course that offers a unique blend of artistic expression and mindfulness. In this course, you'll embark on a creative journey that will not only boost your confidence in acrylic painting but also provide a platform for inner reflection and connection with your emotions.

Key highlights of the course include:

1. Acrylic Painting Mastery: You'll gain confidence in working with acrylic paints by learning a comprehensive set of 24 painting techniques. Step-by-step instructions ensure that artists of all levels can participate and excel.
2. Me Time: Take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and invest in some well-deserved 'me time.' This course encourages self-care and self-expression.
3. Pride and Enjoyment: As you create beautifully painted rocks with short, meaningful intentions, you'll experience a sense of pride and immense enjoyment in the creative process.
4. Personalized Connection Stones: Each painted rock becomes a tangible representation of your inner emotions and intentions. These colorful rocks can be used to ground yourself on a daily basis.
5. Self-Paced Learning: You have the flexibility to go at your own pace, making it perfect for individuals with varying schedules and commitments.
6. Direct Access to the Teacher: Benefit from weekly Zoom sessions with the course instructor, offering a unique opportunity to seek guidance, ask questions, and connect with the teacher and fellow participants.
7. Guided Meditations: Immerse yourself in guided meditations that enhance your connection with your artwork and inner self, fostering a deeper sense of mindfulness.

By enrolling in "Soulful Rocks," you'll be guided through a process that seamlessly combines creativity and meditation. As you create your collection of intention-filled rocks, you'll not only experience the joy of artistic expression but also find a grounding force for your emotions in your daily life.

To embark on this fun and relaxing journey of self-discovery and creativity, simply visit https://www.barbaralynnburns.com and sign up for the course. It's time to paint, meditate, and connect with your inner self through the beauty of Soulful Rocks.