Category: Syndicate

Thank You Brian

Have you ever had one of those weeks when nothing seems to go right? Word of advice, if you’re having one, don’t watch the news. To add insult to injury, I had a bad hair day and took a selfie in my baseball hat that says, “bad hair day” across the front.

ELBEE She is the queen of bad selfies and why did she do that to poor Henry?

My mom

Fortunately, I had a hair appointment and things started looking up. I’m sure I get that from my mother. As a little girl growing up in Syracuse, I still remember her weekly ritual. Rain, shine or snow, but maybe not blizzard, she went for her wash and set. It was before blow drying was a “thing.” It always made her happy.

My hairdresser and dear friend Brian, not only makes my hair look fabulous but he’s also very spiritual and uplifting. Sitting in his chair is like a combination haircut/therapy session. He’s caring and kind with a sense of humor, a winning combination.

Recently he did something for an elderly client that speaks to his heart. The woman had taken a cab to the salon but got so confused when it was time to go home. that Brian decided to drive her. When she was safely in the house, her mind cleared and she thanked him.

Brian and his partner Daniel are both dog lovers and have helped me with socializing the Doods. With the people, noise and distractions, the salon is a perfect place to train them for working in the hospital. Stanley even had an early  photo shoot.

Stanley’s salon moment

 

 

 

 

 

 

A few days ago when  I stopped in with Henry, I was delighted to see how comfortable and sweet he was with everyone  Actually, it wasn’t his first meeting with Brian. That was when he was only about four months old. What a difference a year makes!

 

 

 

 

 

There is a sign on a small table in the restroom of the Syndicate, that I have always loved. It is a drawing of Audrey Hepburn with a quote about empathy.

That sign makes me think about how our dogs function with such pure empathy. They offer a lesson of love for all of us.

An Afternoon at the Salon

Brian and Daniel, owners of the Syndicate in Encino, are not only hairdressers extraordinaire but dog lovers extraordinaire. For years I’ve been bringing the Doods into the salon to socialize. It’s great for training because there are so many people to dote on them plus there are lots of noises and distractions. Not to mention, it’s a very fitting place for therapy dogs because, let’s face it, getting your hair done is therapy.

ELBEE A little makeup does it for me.

The first time Stanley visited, he was a tiny fur ball. People took turns holding and cuddling him. By our next visit, he had already grown so much that picking him up was not an option.

While he was cutting my hair last week, Brian mentioned that they were going to do a photo shoot for the salon and asked if I could bring Stanley. I couldn’t say yes fast enough. I am a true stage mother at heart.

On Tuesday as I was driving him there I was afraid that goofy puppy would show up instead of “maturing” Stanley. I needn’t have worried. From the moment he pranced though the front door, he was in his element. I don’t know if it’s a Doodle thing or a diva thing but it was easy to see that he has learned from the best.

ELBEE & GUS Thank you.

The circumstances were perfect. He was the center of attention. Everyone was petting and hugging him. He didn’t have to compete with Elbee or Gus.

GUS Trust me. He competes. If we’re out walking and someone pays attention to me, Stanley starts dragging me around by my leash. Its embarrassing.

Not once did he bark or jump on anyone. He was calm. He was sweet. He let us put him in a robe. He posed under the dryer. He sat in one of the chairs and let Jenna, whom I think he considers to be his personal stylist, work on his hair. With very little coaxing from me or the photographer, he looked right at the camera.

 

 

 

 

 

 

He even had his own “glam squad” of paparazzi. For a fun touch, they brought him a cappuccino.

 

 

 

 

 

 

ELBEE Cappuccino? I love my groomer Marsha but in all these years she’s never offered me so much as a cup of coffee.

Looking back at this photo of Charley, it’s seems as if it’s come full circle, although an unusual circle. I have been so blessed to have been a part of what Charley, Elbee and Gus have accomplished over the years. I have also had such a good time. Stanley has a way to go before, fingers crossed, he’ll be ready to work, but he’s already brought me so much joy.