Day 299

3/11/23

Anticipation!!!!

My Goldens get excited about pretty much EVERYTHING! Here are just a few examples:

*Asking them if they want to go outside.
*Grabbing the Therapy Dog bandana (We get to visit.)
*Asking them if they want a treat.
*Inviting them up on the bed or couch.
*Breakfast, lunch AND supper
*Asking, "Who's here?"
*Getting out the morning peanut butter bones.

The list is endless and their anticipation/excitement seems to have no end in sight.

Why can't I be more like my Goldens? When I was a child, I believed that events would excite my youthful spirit. As I aged, the bar seemed to rise higher and higher for that excitement to catch hold. Now, anticipation is not about flying down the hill on my rollerblades or even about experiences that heighten my awareness and blood pressure.

Now, I anticipate reuniting with family after an hour, day or months (Jimmy!). I get excited when the meal I prepared for my family or guests turns out to be a hit. There is also a wonderful enthusiasm when one of my Goldens connects with a lesson in doggy school!

There was that time in Hawaii when I followed my kids off a large rock formation to swim with the turtles. We snorkled over a sunken trestle and the sea life was extraordinary! A sea turtle even swam up and touched my hand! That was about a year ago and the excitement will probably last me for quite some time! It was thrilling, but I wouldn't trade it for more sedate, special memories with loved ones.

I really should try to conjure up more excitement and follow my Goldens' example. Hmmmmm...maybe I will start with equal anticipation to the question, "Who wants a treat?"