Now that we’ve had our puppy for a few weeks, I’m noticing some changes, and not just how quickly she is growing!
The biggest thing I have noticed is that I take more time away from the computer. Mika needs attention, and she needs play. She draws me away from “work” to go outside, or sit with her and play, or train, or just be near her while she chews (preferably not on me!).
Taking these precious moments rejuvenates me more than I could have imagined. I smile at her little pounces, or her zoomies, or at the feel of her fur (she’s SO SOFT, except where she is pointy…). I stand outside with her and listen to the birds and sounds of the neighborhood, and breathe in the fresh air.
Sure, there are times when I can’t get away, or sigh heavily that she needs yet another thing. More often than not, her needs are a welcome respite from the digital world.
Mika is teaching me to pause (paws) and be in the moment. She is teaching me to take breaks and rest. She has brought a lot of joy to our home in just a short time.
I saw a quote on a friend’s Facebook page today that brought home the importance of rest:
Burnout exists because we have made rest a reward instead of a right.
TheLastMindbender @JulietCObodo on Twitter
I know I push myself hard, and don’t get enough rest. I just never would have imagined that bringing a creature into my home that requires a lot of time and attention would help me rest more. When she’s not keeping me up at night!
Blessings,
Mary