I know that the universe is sending me exactly what I need. I let go of fear and doubt and allow my blessings to flow directly to me.

What mantras can do for you… there's been a fair amount of neuroscience research on the effects of daily mantra and/or affirmation practices. These short, simple phrases, whether spoken aloud or meditated on throughout the day, can greatly affect your subconscious.

Give it a try – we’ll feature a new mantra in each newsletter to repeat throughout your week.

• Can’t wait until next Tuesday ? Check out this free app I use to receive a new mantra each morning.

Image: Rita Earl Blackwell

Seven years ago, dog rescue volunteer Alex Tonner had the idea of housing some shelter dogs in a nearby prison due to their high-kill shelter overflow.

• “I was only interested in saving the dogs,” she admits with a laugh, “I really didn’t care about the guys. But that quickly changed.”

Alex launched Paws for Life K9 Rescue within the prison, with the idea to have inmates train the pups to obey basic commands as they waited to be adopted.

• After launching, he struggled. It was hard to find even fourteen inmate volunteers to take on the first six week dog training program.

📈 But that soon changed… Paws for Life now has a waitlist of 200 people begging(😉🦮) for a chance to work with a dog.

Since 2014, more than 680 dogs have been trained and rescued through the program, with 185 inmates volunteering as trainers.

• The program has proven mutually beneficial for both the dogs and inmates, reminding the men of the simple joy “unconditional love” from a dog can bring.

The biggest surprise didn’t come from the dogs’ high adoption rate, but the incredible change observed in the inmates.

💬 What they’re saying: “39 Paws for Life participants, most of whom were serving life sentences, have had those sentences commuted — more than any other prison program in California,” according to Reasons to Be Cheerful.

None of the men have reoffended.

• “[In prison] you’re just a number. But a dog doesn’t know that. He doesn’t ask what crime you committed.”
• “There was too much joy involved in every aspect of having a dog.” shared past inmate Jon Groban of his experience with Oreo, a black and white lab-mix. “Healing took place. To receive unconditional love from an animal is life-changing.”

Read more about Paws for Life.

When travel restrictions made it seemingly impossible for one Canadian bride to have her family at her U.S. wedding, she had to get creative – and ended up holding the ceremony at the U.S./Canada border. 👆👰🎉

Each week, we’re asking YOU, our amazing readers, to submit your everyday wins and accomplishments. Whether it be as big as a new job or an engagement, or as simple as following a morning routine for a week, we want to hear what you're proud of.

🥁 This week’s spotlights go to:

⛰ Pam P. in Edwards, Colorado is climbing to extraordinary new heights:

• “At the age of 54 and after living in Colorado for 7 years, I finally climbed my first 14’r! It was hard and exhausting but I did it!”

🏰 Bri T. from Las Vegas is teaching us all the importance of self care and Mickey Ears.

• “I'm making myself a priority (for once) by taking "me" time and my first multiple nights away as a mom to have a Disney weekend with my best friend(s) and my husband. :) “

🇺🇸 Lais S is celebrating a major accomplishment and the kindness of a stranger.

• “I've become a US resident! Also, the lady who did my green card interview was very lovely, so I am grateful for that.”

Y’all are amazing ! I want to hear your wins this week.

Use this Google form to share what you're proud of or grateful for recently. Nothing is too small. Two or three responses will be featured in next week's newsletter !

Submit your win.