When Gavin and I lived with my brother Chris, my nephew Isaac often joined us on walks, which I loved. One day, we were traipsing through their neighborhood when an off-leash dog approached us. I panicked, yelled, “go, go, go,” while my heart raced, and I emphatically flailed my arms around. Gavin and Isaac looked at… View more
In the 23 years that I’ve had dogs as an adult, my current apartment is the first place I’ve had my own backyard. I’m sure my awe and excitement will wain, but I hope I always appreciate the private space Gavin and I can enjoy together. The other night, I was reading in my lounge chair,… View more
Whenever I’m spinning and catch myself wasting energy, I think, “IF I’m lucky, I have another 50 years on this earth. Is this how I want to spend my time?” In my younger years, that meant adventure and adrenaline. From hang gliding in Southern Illinois to zip lining in Costa Rica, I wanted to live… View more
My tank was empty last night, but I needed to move and felt compelled to do a 30-minute online yoga class. The asana was what my tired body and weary spirit needed. The instructor continuously weaved in the message that we don’t get rainbows until after rain, downpours, or storms. And for those experiencing droughts, not only… View more
When Gavin had surgery number three to remove two mast cell tumors and a lymph node, his dog sitter (who he adored) sent me the sweetest message wishing him well, ending with, “he’s so strong. You’ll both get through this.” And, I remember thinking of all Gavin’s endearing qualities. My perfect boy is sweet, wants… View more
The last year Finn was on this earth, I tormented myself, worrying that if he didn’t pass on his own, I wouldn’t be strong enough to say goodbye to him when he was ready. Whenever I was overthinking the blessing and curse that we, as pet parents, have that choice, I’d listen to the Beatles’… View more
My clever and cheerful kitchen cohort Cammie was out this week getting married and enjoying her honeymoon (so happy for her), so the equally impressive EmiLee stepped in during her busy wedding photography season to help us in the kitchen. It’s an understatement to say I’m grateful to them and Miranda, Lou, and Sasha for… View more
As Gavin’s healing from stomach surgery, it’s been tricky calibrating his anxiety, pain, and nausea medications and supplements. I don’t want him uncomfortable, but I also don’t want him comatose. Gavin started derping Monday night, and as I tried to give each medication time to kick in, he was intent on eating anything he could… View more
As a newbie trainer, I noticed a couple in my puppy class struggling to pick up the baggie of treats they dropped. Every time one reached down, their puppy would growl and snap at them. I walked over, thinking I intended to help. I spent years learning about dog body language. I read every book… View more
When I’m alone in the shop, I often listen to inspirational podcasts or YouTube videos while I work. One of my favorite philosophies is Abraham Hicks, so much so that I subscribed to their email list. And one of this week’s daily messages mentioned doing what makes us happy, whatever floats our cork. I got the… View more
