Carol Van Ahlers

Did you know that the most popular courses in the history of both Harvard University and Yale University are courses on happiness? It’s true and both have had a significant impact on the mental well-being of not only the students who take them, but also the general public. Entitled Positive Psychology 1504, the Harvard course […]

In this blog series on pet loss, we have dealt with the reality of what our pets mean to us and the impact on our lives when they are gone. No one should ever diminish the grief they, or someone they know, feels when a pet dies. Knowing when, or if, to bring another pet

Years ago, I told a friend that I was considering euthanizing my cat. Saphy, my beautiful white cat with sapphire blue eyes, was nearly 15 years old, survived for most of her life with three legs and had multiple health issues. My friend was truly a pet whisperer and I valued her thoughts. She looked

Research tells us that for many seniors having a pet companion can provide a source of love and provide a sense of purpose as they care for another living creature. Unfortunately, when the times comes that the pet dies, the loss can be devastating. Helping an elderly loved one when their pet dies is similar

We can’t underestimate the impact that losing a pet has on a family, especially on a child who has known that pet as a part of the family his or her entire life. Helping a child grieve when a pet dies can be a challenging and sensitive process. It is a fine line to walk

At some time point in time most of us have welcomed a pet into our lives. Whether it was a dog, a cat, an iguana, a canary or a hamster, the bond we make with our non-human friends can be deep. Then comes the time we need to say goodbye, because most pets, outside of

Something about spring simply lifts the spirit. Although these past few days have been cold and cloudy, mixed with a bit of rain, the prospect that spring is here is joyful. The crystal blue sky, crisp breezes, green landscapes created by a year filled with rain create a feeling of exuberance drawn by hands of

March being Women’s History Month is not nearly enough recognition for the role that women play in the world. From homes to businesses, there is no debate on the value and impact that women have on our everyday lives and the future of society. For now, let’s focus on the  business world, as Hilgenfeld Mortuary

“I’ve come to believe that each of us has a personal calling that’s as unique as a fingerprint – and that the best way to succeed is to discover what you love and then find a way to offer it to others in the form of service, working hard, and also allowing the energy of

Most likely at some point in your life you have had the blues. It’s the feeling that things aren’t quite right. You’re tired, a bit cranky, unsettled, sad, stressed, or worried. There may or may not be a specific reason that you can identify, but you can’t shake it off. The blues are real and