You can never go wrong with kindness and compassion.

You can never go wrong with kindness and compassion.

Always believe in yourself. I attended a workshop today where I was reminded by a wise person that we have everything we need already inside of us. It’s just a matter of doing the necessary work. You’ve got this.

Don’t worry, Mondays aren’t so bad. After a relaxing weekend getting back to the grind can be tough, but the sooner you hit that weekly to-do list the sooner the next weekend will come. For today’s goat, The Haven Zoo sent over a little video of Angela voicing her opinions and grumpy mood.
Today is the first new moon of the decade. A new moon is kind of an opposite of a full moon, so sometimes it may appear as though there is no moon on the evening of a new moon. It is considered the first lunar phase, and is the point in which the moon and the sun are closest in ecliptic longitude, but not so close that it causes a solar eclipse. In astrology, which of course is not scientific but can be fun anyways, this new moon rises in the sign of Aquarius – a zodiac sign and constellation that represents (amongst other things) rebellion. New moons typically represent fresh starts, and due to the unique position astrologically of this new moon maybe it will inspire you to unleash your inner rebel and take up an awesome cause. As we can all see from the headlines, perhaps the world is in need of some collective, rebellious and revolutionary energy.

Have you noticed that you might be feeling a bit down this week? Well, don’t worry, that’s actually totally normal due to the lack of sunlight due to shorter days, longer nights and generally grey weather that blocks out the sun. Although “Blue Monday” was a clever marketing scheme, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real condition that effects many people during this time of year. It’s ok to feel lethargic and irritable – your body just might be craving more serotonin that your brain isn’t producing as much due to the lack of sun. If you do feel down, and notice that you typically feel down this time of year, take comfort in the fact you are not alone. Mental health professionals can help you cope with the winter through light therapy, talk therapy and other treatments. I find it helps to stay productive and try to get some movement in everyday.

I am very happy to report that The Haven Zoo has raised half the money to replace the shelter for the goats and llamas, including a number of generous sponsorships. A massive thank you and well-done if you have donated or sponsored an animal. If you have yet to make a donation to help, don’t worry, there is still time! With the generous funds, The Haven has purchased recycled tin for the roof of the new shelter.

Have you ever noticed those who have that certain swagger? Individuals who are so confident, they seem to glide through life? Check out Freddie and Hutton, two fantastic llamas from the Haven Zoo. Confidence is key, Hutton has classic symmetrical banana-shaped llama ears while Freddie, well who could say no to that grin? Embrace who you are and own it, live your truth and take on the world.


This week, challenge yourself to focus entirely on the present moment. Don’t lament the past, or worry about the future. Just live each day, each moment, completely in the now.

Although I often urge people to be kind, there are some unfortunate occasions where you simply cannot be responsible for someone else’s feelings. Be kind, but also remember that the only emotions you are responsible for are your own.

Sometimes the road may seem difficult, but eventually once you arrive at your destination, the journey will be well worth it. Plus the best adventure stories never come from easy paths.

Tomorrow is the first day of the first full week of the new decade. Are you excited to return to your routine or dreading the first day back at work? Set an intention for compassion and kindness towards yourself and others and the rest will fall into place.
