One of the things I love about my dogs, and all animals really,
is their ability to live in the moment. Or doze off in the moment,
when the situation calls for it...
On a snowy winter day, just shy of a New Year, my canine pals relax by the fire (you can't see it here, but below you can see the scene from a few nights earlier) at my humble homestead. I moved to this 1930s farmhouse in northwest Boise nine months ago, so this is our first winter here.
In fact it's only the second winter for my two yearling dogs, Monte, a Red Heeler mix and the social butterfly of the nearby dog park, and Skyler, a nervous toy Australian Shepherd who is learning the difference between excitement and fear. He starting to channel Monte's happy, confident vibe.
Despite their size difference, they play together in such a joyful dance. But come nap time, Sky prefers to sleep with one of my two young cats. Or perhaps the cat prefers to sleep with him! At any rate, there is peace and joy at my house this season, and really any time I slow down enough to savor it.
I wish we humans could be more like these cats and dogs, playing and napping together in trust and contentment. Mostly, I vow to remember the influence we have on each other - how our positive qualities are reflected in the reactions of others (as well as our not-so-positive ones). How being calm and grounded can quiet the anxiety and worry of others. Let peace begin with me, as the saying goes.
There is a time for rough and tumble play, and long walks in the foothills. But there is also time for snowy afternoons, and quiet reflection before another year takes off at breakneck speed. I think I'll snuggle up with book and a cup of hot tea, with sleepy cats and dogs around me. I only have one lap to give, but I'm happy to share it with whoever gets there first. 🐶🐱
