Day 492

Habits can be very good or somewhat detrimental. When I go out "Walking With Goldens," we tend to take the same routes each day. Today, we veered from our course to the delight of my elders. Approaching the river, Miss Lilly literally RAN right in! After a moment of panic, I realized that joy supersedes cleanliness every time.

Habitual behavior might just be my middle name. Tending to find comfort in everyday rituals, choosing to stray from normal routines takes intent and willpower for me. However, each time I think outside the box and follow those ideas, my world becomes brighter and more colorful.

For my Goldens, our routines are necessary for training purposes and feelings of security. They thrive on expected reactions and rewards. This is not to say every moment of the day is rigid with expectations, but we refrain from too many surprises. They are creatures of habit and find joy in their daily routine.

Humans also find comfort and peace in daily routines and habits. Unlike their canine companions, people also enjoy pleasant surprises from time to time. Flowers, favorite desserts, dancing in the kitchen and so many other unexpected gifts are part of the spice in life.

For Lilly and Ranger, you can keep your human unexpected offerings. If you are going to stray from the ordinary, a simple swim in the river will do just fine!