Learning from Animals

Today I ran into a Golden Retriever on my walk. It made me miss my George and I started to cry. For some reason when I deal with people issues I have the need to be brave and stoic. But I allow myself to feel and express my emotions when it comes to my pets. I let out years of pent up grief when my Saint Bernard Rosy died.

Today I realized I was missing my old dogs but actually I was missing my kids and grandkids. I just spent 5 days with Dallin, Sarah and Ashley in Colorado. We had fun while their parents were off playing in Cancun.

A month ago I spent 5 days with Lachlan while his mom and dad were busy welcoming his little brother River to the world. I also got to spend some time with Nizhoni and Kiyana. We always like going to the movies together. They are getting old enough now that we have some deep discussions.

It's funny how my animals allow me to process emotions, teach me about unconditional love, help me stay in the moment and get me out of my head. I'm so grateful for their loving patience and I hope God will bless them to make up for my shortcomings.

But in the end it's my kids and grandkids I miss. Don't get me wrong. I like my life. I like the peace of not having to appease anyone else. Of coming and going as I please. Of not feeling judged. But I do love spending time with my kids and grandkids. They make my life feel worthwhile. The world is a better place because they are here.