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It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump: And Other Life Lessons I Learned from Dogsx$4.04
  (66 reviews)
Best Price: $4.04
A funny, profound book about the enduring wisdom of dogs, from the host of the enormously popular National Dog Show.
Unabridged CDs - 3 CDs, 3 hours
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Customer Reviews
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Best read with a dog in your lap.
By A132PEUAYEXUKM on 2006-11-15
Having learned many life lessons from dogs myself, I naturally loved this book. Mr. O'Hurley's writing is a delight; full of fun and poignancy, as well. It's as open and honest as any dog you'll ever meet. Dogs have that effect on people. He writes, "On occasion, I have helped to heal them, and more often, they have helped to heal me." So do my dogs everyday. Being the sole caregiver for my elderly mother, my dogs keep me sane and focused. Without them, I could not do what I'm doing. Mr. O'Hurley is a true dog-person who writes from experience. This book makes my heart happy.
It's a Wonderful... Dog's Life!
By A2CGVVD9ZEH9PU on 2006-11-13
Whether you know him as J. Peterman from Seinfeld or for being crowned champion on Dancing with the Stars, John O'Hurley is a constant presence on the small screen. What you don't see off-camera are the furry faces that round out his life.
Since childhood, O'Hurley has been an avid dog lover. Looking back on the canine friends he's had through the years, he has learned valuable lessons that he shares in his new book, IT'S OKAY TO MISS THE BED ON THE FIRST JUMP: AND OTHER LIFE LESSONS I LEARNED FROM DOGS. Combining gentle wit with obvious affection for "man's [and woman's] best friend," O'Hurley illustrates surprisingly simple attitudes that humans would do well to emulate.
Each chapter is dedicated to a lesson. Some chapter names are; "Precious Gifts Come in Small Packages," "When a Dog Barks--Listen," "Own Your Own Fur," and so on. While each "lesson" may be apparent from its title, O'Hurley provides examples from both his life and the life of a dog (or three) he has known.
Sometime we, as humans, forget about the simplest, truest aspects of life. We get worked up over things that dogs know don't matter. There are eleven lessons in this book. If you glean even a little from it, maybe you'll be a bit happier. And: "If you're happy and you know it, wag your tail!"
Reviewed by Christina Wantz Fixemer
11/12/2006
4½-BOOKS on WUAT = 5-Stars on Amazon
An Instant Classic
By A1RT3N8IVJPI6V on 2006-11-09
Do not lend this book to anyone 'kuz you will not get it back!! It is an absolute treasure to be read over and over! And I defy anyone to keep a dry eye when reading pages 68 and 69!
Wooff!!! Dogs do get it . . . and Sometimes We Don't!
By A2QWOMNUO1WJI3 on 2006-11-11
This is one book I think we all need to read: simple, humerous, and pretty much right on the mark with many views O'Hurley shares with his reader about some general, but important aspects of living. And O'Hurley is right when he points out that we can learn a great deal from dogs and their behaviour. Oh, I wish life was that simple, but nevertheless, he's right about:
We should view time and moments as special: Dogs view life in 15 Minute periods, and so small moments in a day can be seen as New Day;
'Sleep is a weapon' - stated repeatedly by Robert Ludlum in many of his novels: acted upon by dogs, who never miss a nap;
Life is filled with so much opportunity, and love, when openly willing to share it, is easier to obtain than you think. Dogs have it right: when a person stops petting you, it time to look for affection someplace else.
I could go on about the many clever points John O'Hurley makes in 'It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump: And Other Life Lessons I Learned from Dogs', but I have a much better suggestion: go out in pick this one up. When life becomes a bit more complex or you seem to lose your bearings for a moment . . . do what a dog would do. Outstanding. Wooff!
Great Holiday Gift
By A12UTXKZN1Q2WE on 2006-11-24
John O'Hurley has done a masterful job in writing his first novel. This is a short beautifully written novel about the behavior patterns of dogs and how we humans can learn from our friends. Dogs appreciate the little things and O'Hurley conveys these thoughts in hopes that humans do the same. Whether its a friendly smile or taking a nap -- O'Hurley emphasizes the need to enjoy life and relax. It's Okay to Miss the Bed is great read for dog owners and would be a perfect holiday gift. His keen observations will have you laughing. Personally, I couldn't wait to get home and reunite with my two cocker spaniels (Lucky and Maggie). Warning: if you read this book on the train, be prepared for a little laugher because O'Hurleys sense of humor encourages such behavior. Great book and I certainly hope this isn't his last effort.
- There should be more like you, John O'Hurley
By AH2LV4KRO8YEN on 2006-12-11
What a treasure this book is! If every dog in the world had an owner like John O'Hurley, what a wonderful world this would be. The first thing about this book that struck me was the way the author's pets are truly an integral part of the family; not just household pets. The love and respect the author has for his two dogs, Betty and Skoshie, are palpable. Some people look in a dog's eyes and see blind faith and unconditional love. Mr. O'Hurley looks in a dog's eyes and very obviously sees so much more, which he shares in this most enjoyable read. You will never look at your dog the same way again. If there were six stars, this book would get all six of them. I actually purchased the audiobook so I could capture the feeling the author has for his dogs .... loved it !!!!!
- Four paws up!!
By A2TA37C7P7711W on 2007-03-14
Focusing on his current two dogs, Betty and Scoshi, John O'Hurley provides a candid, witty and insightful look at the different dogs in his life, past and present, and the traits/qualities they possessed which taught him many invaluable lessons.
As John takes us through each chapter, any person who has had dogs in his/her life can reflect on his words and knows that dogs CAN teach us a great deal about life:
*How to appreciate the simple things
*How to be persistent and not give up on goals
*To love unconditionally
*To give others an equal chance to love THEM unconditionally
*Not to fear most things (Ever see a Terrier pick a fight with a much bigger dog?? They're prime examples of being fearless creatures for their size)
Most of all, dogs are wonderful companions, chock full of personality and amusement -- in fact, more personality than some humans!!
John's style of writing in this book is intimate and personable. One critique I had, however, was that he sometimes digressed too much and the points he was illustrating were not always clear.
I rated this at 4.5 stars. Overall, this is a great little book of lessons for us humans.
- Wag of a Tail
By A1Z5XFRJGSKIGA on 2007-01-19
I enjoyed getting to know John O'Hurley more by reading this book. It's obvious he loves dogs. His lessons, though, seemed too simple and obvious. The best part of the book was about a therapy dog - how a wag of a tail can make all the difference in the world to people. You have to be a dog lover and a fan of John O'Hurley to enjoy this book.
- An afternoon's delightful read: some humor; some wisdom; and some insightful messages.
By A3JSDV57XPD937 on 2007-01-08
Actor John O'Hurley has written an entertaining and insightful book in It's Okay.... The title comes from his dog Betty's attempt to jump onto their (his and wife Lisa's) bed and misses. Rather than cry and give up, she just goes about getting onto the bed another way...and succeeds. This is the crux of this book, and I quote from page 35:
"Betty leapt well beyond her abilities to a height twice her own, and yet, in her mind, she leapt for the most important of reasons. She knew that Love Fest didn't take place on the floor. If she was going to be part of it, she had to go to the source. Her subsequent face-plant on the floor didn't deter her from her deeper purpose. She simply shook herself off and found another route to her goal. Yes, she failed at first, but just long enough to give preparation a chance to catch up with opportunity."
This book is full of anecdotes like this and John has used them during his adult life to take lessons from dogs. He is also aware that we humans aren't dogs and so some of what we do is part of being human and will remain outside the realm of the very different role of dogs in the world. However, much can be learned from them. Another of my favorites (there were many) was the one about stretching. Anyone who's been around dogs for very long at all has seen them stretch. This is a habit of mine every morning before rising. It's a great way to limber up the old bod, and, as I get older, I can certainly appreciate how it gets me going in the morning.
I plan to get the audio version. O'Hurley has a magnificent voice and a great sense of humor. I imagine he does a great job with reading the book. He's probably one of the few authors who actually enhances the value/message of his own book by reading it.
Carolyn Rowe Hill
- This book was dissapointing
By AF34TBTPKDZC9 on 2007-01-23
Dog lover's beware---this book was dissapointing. The book starts off slow, and doesn't really pick up much as it goes on. There is nothing very profound about what he has learned from his dogs... Unless you count that they listen to him..I was expecting a witty comentary, and instead I got bland, bland, bland!
If you are a dog lover looking for a good book, I highly recomend Marley and Me by John Grogan... Now, there's a clever book for every dog lover!
- Delightful!
By AS7VAV6ETR5A6 on 2007-02-15
Even though I do not own a dog, I thought this book was delightful and have purchased two copies as gifts for friends. Many good insights in this book.
- Enjoyable lessons from our canine friends
By A22CZRZBVQSEZB on 2007-02-18
Even if you don't know much about John O'Hurley, you will enjoy this book. In fact, even if you don't have a dog you will as well. This is a successful addition to the annals of books that have been written about the lessons that dogs can teach us. It is a tribute to our canine friends that they are the source of so much inspiration.
Mr. O'Hurley's approach is through telling stories of everyday situations, many of which we can imagine ourselves in, such as trying to check into a 'no pet' hotel with a dog. His love of dogs really comes through in the writing, which is down to earth. A great gift book for a dog lover! (and an especially good gift for a fan of John O'Hurley).
- A Little Gem of a Book!
By A1VUSGYUX77WMN on 2007-03-17
I am always looking for new dog/animal books to read, and this one intriged me when I spotted it at the bookstore. I have always thought of Peterman as my favorite guest cast member of Seinfeld. So I thought I'd give his book a try!
I've been reading a chapter a night before bed, and every chapter has been enjoyable. O'Hurley writes simply straight from the heart, and that is what makes this book so perfect. He's not arrogant or clueless like I have found some recent dog book authors to be. He gets it, just from being the type of person he is.
- A dissapointment
By A1GELZGV63W0W8 on 2007-01-11
This was an ego piece about the author, it really short changed the dog stories. If you count the words there are 90% about him and 10% about dogs. I bought 4 copies to give to friends who are dog lovers, I ended up tossing them instead. Next time I will read before I buy.
- It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump
By AWFSO5OM5IJ35 on 2007-01-20
This book on CD was AWESOME. I love John O'Hurley and his book was very funny, informative and enjoyable. I could listen to him for hours.
- It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump
By A2C4EC64Q8E07O on 2007-03-10
O'Hurley has successfully interpreted the characteristics of the dogs he has encountered in life into a philosophy that we mere humans can use to better our lives. A "feel good" and fun read for anyone who loves dogs and believes in their innate wisdom'
- Simply Delightful and Quite Insightful
By A1OZQQIBDS7H1B on 2007-05-17
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is a delightful read. The chapters are short, which means the reader can either enjoy it a bite at a time or in one big lucious gulp. John O'Hurley masterfully weaves his stories with both humor and thought provoking life lessons. If the reader doesn't already know how much a dog can enrich one's life, this book will open their eyes. For the rest of us, it just enhances the joy that we already know. How much we can learn from our four footed friends! And, from John O'Hurley.
- For Dog Lovers with Humor and Compassion
By AE2W3654J4YHH on 2007-06-03
Absolutely fabulous!! Written and spoken with humor, feeling, compassion, innocense and love. Truly appreciated from a forever dog lover. It made me laugh, cry and brought back wonderful memories. Anyone who has ever loved a dog MUST get It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump...It is a masterpiece to share and 'read' over and over. Thank you Mr. O'Hurley!!
- A Must Read!!!
By A3VMK9VL9GJIO2 on 2006-12-14
John O'Hurley is just being his own delightfully charming self from start to finish in this book. It is an entertaining read, to say the least. It is seriously funny..so much so I had to put the book down a few times to compose myself! It is insightful as well with the life lessons that most dog owners find...I felt a kindred spirit connection as I could very much relate to it. When dogs become more than just a pet...making a transition to friend/companion and unconditional love-giver they become part of our souls, therefore becoming some of our most profound teachers of our lives. The best part of reading his book is that I could actually hear his voice in my head, which made it funnier! Many thanks to John O'Hurley for writing a book that I will enjoy over and over again. You are a treasure!
- EXCELLENT BOOK!!!!!!!!
By A286KW38UN2TGA on 2006-12-19
This is a WONDERFUL book........one of the BEST I have ever read! I would highly recommend this book to all those who have a dog. I would also highly recommend this book to all those who DO NOT have a pet or what I refer to as a family member. For those people who do not understand how a human can love an animal so much....this book gives a better understanding! I hope to see more books on this subject by John O'Hurley! Again, EXCELLENT BOOK!!!!!!!!
- Woo Woo Wow!
By A2D9TA1EYXA9KR on 2006-12-25
I have this on audio CD, so you get the full effect of Mr. O'Hurley's wit, both in words AND timing. (Because of his particular gifts, I would suggest the audio book over the print version.)
This is a fun little book, wit, wisdom and personal anecdotes mixed thoroughly with the love of dogs.
The wisdom is often a little prosaic, but the wit and personal anecdotes are top notch. Mr. O'Hurley's self-deprecating stories are the highlight. There is one story mid way through which made me drop everything howling with laughter.
This is really more a compilation of personal history - something actors often excell at - just put in a framework of doggie-dom. Don't expect a lot of information on dogs.
I am giving this as a gift, and it is SURE to be appreciated. Fun, frivilous, a fast "read." Enjoy.
- For the dogs
By A3S6AM2TG6PMPQ on 2007-01-14
I think I'm being kind on a rating of 2 but its because I like John so much ... book was boring and not truly funny - for the most part
- If you love John O'Hurley...
By A1OT15Q6ZLHENX on 2007-01-15
I admit that I am a huge fan of John O'Hurley. He's a very talented individual and I appreciate the fact that he does many things well. I got hooked on him when he joined the original cast of "Dancing with the Stars" After that I had to check out all of the re-runs of Seinfeld (available on Amazon) to see him in his "J. Petersen" character which is hilarious. I heard that John made a dance instruction video with his partner Charlotte Jorgensen, but apparently it is no longer available on his own website. Anybody have info on that? Anyway, after that I found out that John is also the announcer for the Purina Dog Show. In an interview, I heard John say that he kind of modeled his announcing style after some of the characters from the movie "Best in Show" ( which you can also get from Amazon.) Excellent movie! Turns out that John is also a pianist and composer . Check out his semi-classical CD "Peace of Mind" It's one of the most beautiful albums of music that I've ever heard. In between listenings of the CD, I watch John as the host of the current version of the game show MatchGame. So then I found out that John had written a book and I had to have it. It is sweet, funny and wonderful. If you love dogs and enjoy sweet, thoughful (and hilarious) comedy, you will love this book. So here's to John O'Hurley: actor, comedian, dancer, musician, composer, game show host and author. What more could you want?
- It Warms My Heart!
By AV58WZZMNEXTW on 2007-02-11
John O' Hurley is such a classy guy, I'm glad to see his human side in this book. He truly returns the unconditional love he receives from his dogs in his outpouring of affection in "It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump..." It's warm, whimsical, funny, serious and true. People say "you can tell how a man will treat his wife by the way he treats his mother...", I say "you can tell how a person will treat another by the way he treats his dog." John, your class all the way!
- It's Doggone Great!
By AC2SMA1JV1RRG on 2007-02-13
I received this for Christmas and haven't yet read it all the way through. What I have read is excellent! I'm a big fan of John O'Hurley. His writing is terrific, honest, and funny.
- Great Light-hearted Read for All Dog Lovers
By A13B3GKP62GKPA on 2007-03-27
After reading the reviews, I purchased this book and absolutely loved it! I've bought copies of it for friends and relatives because it is such a great "good for the soul" book. Anyone who has a dog they consider to be a member of their family will relate to John O'Hurley's stories. The humor in it is wonderful. My husband threatened to boot me out of a room while he was watching tv because I kept laughing. Its a quick read that will make you laugh and think. Enjoy!
- One great book for dog lovers!
By A24DN00CV740ZI on 2007-07-28
I haven't read a book that was so much fun to read in a long time. For anyone that has a love of animals, especially dogs, this is a gem.
It brought back memories of my first dog and happy thoughts of the ones I have had since. It is quite obvious that the author has a very special place in his heart for "mans' best friend". I know that in my youth my dog was definately my best friend and one whose company I enjoyed the most!
- Hilarious
By A3LC9UJQFGCJV3 on 2007-08-04
I read this book during a very difficult time in my life and it was absolutely the best medicine! I laughed so much that my then husband was ready to send me to the "funny farm". We can definitely learn a lot from our pets. John, since I read your book I take afternoon naps and feel much better! I own a supersized lazy dog, a wonderful Great Pyrenees.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us and thanks for the laughs!
- A very enjoyable book
By A2PEQLN0O8R2HJ on 2007-01-11
John O'Hurley is a gifted writer. He's funny and introspective and I pictured him as J Peterson (from Seinfeld) while reading his book about dogs. I thoroughly enjoyed it from cover to cover!! And laughed out loud several times.
- John O'Hurley's Philosophy of Life
By A1R97NSFOSPJI0 on 2007-01-11
You will remember the fun we all had watching John O'Hurley in the "Dancing With the Stars" TV program. He brings that energy and love of life to his newest book. Each chapter tells a story about a dog that has made an impression on him and he uses the story to bring out a wonderful philosophy of life. "It's OK to Miss the Bed on the First Jump" to me meant that it's ok to try and fail, pick yourself up and try again until you succeed. Written with humor, each little essay is a gem.
Keep on dancing, John, and definitely keep on writing.
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