Julie A. Newbury

A Season of Change

This fall is my first without Spice by my side, but her playful spirit still sneaks into every crunchy leaf pile and every gust of wind. From cozy sweaters to pumpkin spice coffee, the lessons she left me—joy, presence, and mischief—carry me through the season

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Healing and Loss, Self Acceptance, , , , , ,

Spice’s Guide to the Dog Days of Summer

As summer winds down, I find myself reflecting on the way Spice lived every season with joy, but especially the long, sunny days. From lounging in the grass with sunglasses to diving into her favorite lakes, Spice showed me how to savor the moment and live carefree. These dog days of summer may be coming to an end, but her lessons last forever.

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Daily Inspiration and Joy, Life Lessons, , , , , , ,

Embrace the Power of Rest: A Labor Day Reflection

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Dog Wisdom, Life Lessons, , , , , , ,

Spice’s Window to the World (and What It Taught Me)

From the first moment she could barely see out the window as a puppy, to her later years of quiet reflection, Spice taught me to approach the world with curiosity, patience, and love. Her window to the world was more than glass—it was a lens into life’s beauty, and the lessons she left behind continue to warm my heart every day.

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Daily Inspiration and Joy, Dog Wisdom, , , , , , , ,
gwt your daily dose of spice and sunshine

Get your Daily Dose of “Spice & Sunshine”

From the day she was a tiny puppy to her last moments, Spice always found her place in the sun. She taught me that—like plants—we need sunshine, water, and love to grow. Whether sprawled out in a deck chair, curled in the garden, or pinning me down in the grass to join her, she reminded me to pause, breathe, and soak in the light. And every day, I sang her “You Are My Sunshine”—a song she answered with kisses, as if to say, “Yes, I am.” Spice was more than my dog; she was my sunshine, my teacher, and the light of my life.

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Daily Inspiration and Joy, Dog Wisdom, , , , , , ,

Carry Your Treasure: Lessons from my “Guard” Dog

Spice wasn’t just any dog—she was a collector, a guardian, and a teacher. From piles of bones on the bed to treasures buried in the yard, she showed me how to protect, cherish, and carry what matters most—close to the heart.

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Dog Wisdom, Life Lessons, , , , , , ,

Slowing Down to Remember What Really Matters

A bubble, a quiet gaze in the grass, a deep look of love at night. Spice had a way of teaching me to slow down and see the magic in life. Spice’s gentle lessons remind us to slow down, rediscover childlike wonder, and cherish love in life’s quiet moments.

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Life Lessons, Love and Relationships, , , , , ,

Sweet Moments with Spice: The Joy of Sharing Treats

Spice taught me that life isn’t just about healthy habits—it’s about joy, celebration, and sharing sweet moments. Treats for us, treats for her, and guilt-free smiles for both. Sometimes, happiness comes in the form of a shared dessert with your best friend.

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Life Lessons, Self Acceptance, , , , ,

Aging Gracefully: Insights from My Dog Spice

Aging gracefully isn’t about hiding wrinkles or chasing perfection—it’s about perspective. As I entered my 40s, I wrestled with insecurities, while my sweet dog Spice reminded me what truly mattered: love, joy, and living fully. Watching her grey with grace taught me that beauty shines brightest in how we carry ourselves and how deeply we love.

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Life Lessons, Self Acceptance, , , , , , ,

Start Each Day with a “Spicey Smile”

Spice had a gift for lighting up the world with her smile—a smile so pure it softened hearts, sparked connection, and even brought healing. Her legacy reminds us that joy and love are meant to be shared, and that every day is brighter when we begin with a “Spicey smile.”

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Daily Inspiration and Joy, Life Lessons, , , , , , , ,