Tuesday, January 19, 2010

The News....Part II

A few days ago I wrote a post entitled The News...Part I. Today is the follow up: "The News...Part II", rather appropriately entitled, don't you think? Anyway, now for the rest of the story, as they say. News of my departure from Pet Co spread quickly within the pet industry. My phone rang all weekend long with calls from a variety of well-wishers, and some folks just curious about the rumor of me leaving. I can honestly say that over the past 25 years of my retail career, I've enjoyed working in the pet industry the most. Although, I really do miss the confectionery (chocolate) industry a great deal, but let's face it, having a dog or cat in your life is far more fulfilling than a box of chocolates. As I mentioned in Part I, the nifty part of this transition is that although I am changing employers, I will remain part of the pet industry- in particular the pet specialty industry. Pet specialty stores are the best place to buy food and stuff for your pet, so remember that the next time you need something for your kitty cat or dog. Don't be fooled by those slick brands in the grocery store or giant mart store, they don't carry foods that offer the best nutrition. Speaking of nutrition, perhaps its time I share the news of where I am headed. I am excited to share that I will be working for Dick Van Patten's Natural Balance Pet Foods. Now if you followed my posts about the Rose Parade, you may recall that Natural Balance is the company who had the cool float with the snowboarding bulldogs. Don't worry, I won't turn my personal blog into a advertisement for Natural Balance. But I won't be shy about it either. Honestly there are a lot of really great quality natural pet foods, if you ever want my personal opinion for your pet's diet send me an e-mail. I know just about every brand there is, and I'll give you my objective opinion. I'm excited about going to work for Natural Balance. I'm excited to carry on the mission of promoting the highest quality natural foods for dogs and cats. You may have noticed that I am passionate about the topic of feeding pets the best food possible. I sincerely believe that being passionate about what you do makes all the difference. That is my big lesson learned over the past 25 years of my career. Whatever you do- be sure you LOVE IT. It has made all the difference for me. Demonstrate your passion everyday and smile. It's amazing how your energy, passion and positive attitude will affect and influence others. But here is the real secret: it can change the course of events in your own life. You may recall from The News...Part I that I mentioned reading The Mental Equivalent by Emmet Fox. I learned that when you think positive thoughts and exude positive energy, it will bring good luck and good karma. I hope you can apply these little tips to your life.
-Rick Rockhill

20 comments:

  1. Okay, I am sold. I will try the new pet food. Louie is now walking 8 miles a day, and I feel he needs more nutrition. Yes, he is a very buff dog. Girl dogs swoon over him.

    How do I transition my dog over?
    xx
    Kanani

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  2. Oh Rick, I am so happy for you!
    What a wonderful announcement.
    I'll have to research the company and see what their cat foods are like.
    If you need 8 product testers, just let me know! >wink<
    Seriously, congrats on your new position!
    ~Mo

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  3. I kind of nailed that one, Rick. I knew you were off to Natural Balance. No special reason - I just had a major hunch that was it.

    Well, congratulations, I'm sure you'll be happy there, given how much you talk about it, and Dick ;-)

    *woof*

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  4. CONGRATULATIONS, Rick. Very very exciting on so many levels...! And it's great that this opportunity presented itself and you were ready to make this move. Your numerolgy lady---I believe I know who that is, and I really must get a reading---told you some fascinating things and here it all is...!
    BTW: Do they make Cat Food, too? If they do, perhaps you can tell me where I can get some. I'd certainly like to try Sweetie on some....!
    Much Good Luck in this new and exciting endevor, my dear!

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  5. Congratulations, Rick. I know you will love working with people whom you already know and like.

    Does the company have a cat food that is turkey and barley? That's what my cats are supposed to eat.

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  6. I can't say I'm surprised to hear you'll be working for Natural Balance. I know you've been friends with the Van Pattens for a while and they obviously have great respect for you and your abilities. It seems to me that this will be a great fit for you. Congratulations! I would wish you the best of luck but...you don't need it, you'll be great regardless.

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  7. I knew it! I'm so excited about this endeavor!!!!! You will have so much fun with this company...

    It's so much easier working your passion -- That makes the perfect recipe for happiness.

    As always I wish you success... and hope you have the time of your life!

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  8. I'm really not at all surprised by the move you've made employment wise. It makes perfect sense to anyone having read your blog on a regular basis.

    I wish you all the luck in the world - what a perfect fit!

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  9. Congrats and well wishes!! How bout some free samples???? :-) (kidding).
    I'm sure you'll do great! They're lucky to have you.
    Peace

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  10. Great news Rick, and I look forward to following along on your new path. I LOVE my job, and hope my positive attitude affects and influences others. I'm smiling for you!

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  11. Wow! What a cool post! Congrats, Rick! Happy New Year, btw! Looks like 2010 has already started out as a great one for you!

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  12. i am thrilled for you!!! best wishes...

    smiles, bee
    xoxoxoxoxoxo

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  13. Congrats on the new job man. In the near future, I TOO shall have a change in my life.

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  14. What a fun career move! Wishing you all the best!

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  15. Can't wait to hear progress reports from the new work. It is really a blessing and very karmic to be able to work at something that evokes such passion. Blessings!

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  16. Rick, sad to hear you're leaving PETCO. Good luck with your next career phase.

    I am totally impressed to hear you read Emmett Fox; one of my gurus.

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  17. Your advice about doing something you love is so true. Congrats as you go forward with this new journey which seems like a perfect match for you.

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  18. Congrats again - I get the full story reading from home.
    How about pets + box of chocolate = bliss?

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  19. Many congratulation to you on not just starting a new phase in life but in being SO connected to your Inner Knowing, your Spirit, Universal Energy, God, whatever you want to call it. When even one person is able to do it, it's my understanding that it lifts all of us. Some people may think, "Hm, I couldn't POSSIBLY do something like THAT myself." But you've planted a little seed, and one never knows how that grows in another, a week, a year, a decade later. So, Thank You For Continuing To Be You. =-)

    P.L. Frederick (Small & Big)

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Thank you kindly.