Day 1244

“Hey, Mom! Why can’t we get to you?”

My Goldens do not understand separation at all! Although we use reassuring words and loving tones, they simply see us leaving them behind. In the case of Goldens retrievers, their need to be touching us or being near is paramount to their happiness. When we leave them home, as sometimes we must, their sad faces send us off with guilt in our hearts.

I am so very good at feeling bad or guilty when I make a decision which does not include putting my pups first. Not being sure of how that evolved, there seems to be no road to backtrack and make a healthier choice for myself. For example, I will walk my dogs even if I have injured an ankle. Of course that prolongs healing and yet I walk.

I have found that, if I rationalize a situation and put my needs first, the only way that works is if it benefits those around me. I have an idea that I am not alone in that boat. What to do…what to do…

A goal might be to do one thing a day that is just for me! That might work! I could read a magazine, sit in the sun or even go shopping for fun! It will be a work-in-progress, but it is worth a try.

Right now, I might just finish that book that’s calling..but first I better check the dog’s water bowls!