Day 497

Rituals are part of our everyday life at The Big White House on the hill. The humans have their habits, but the Goldens LIVE for routines!

Every morning:

*Mac takes Sam and Ranger downstairs.

*Mom spends time with Gus and Lilly.

*Downstairs we go with the last two.

*Fresh water is offered.

*Parade to the backyard.

*Back in through the doggy door.

*Bowls of food are delivered

*Peanut butter -filled bones are shared to clean teeth.

*Honey nut Cheerios are dispersed.

*All gather at our feet while we eat our breakfast.

*Lilly and Ranger get to "clean up" the dregs from the human cereal... sometimes it pays to be a senior pup!

*Walks begin.

*Nap time!

If we change the slightest step, there is dissension in the ranks!

We plan our lives around these pups, but they are worth it!

Rituals are important in our lives for many reasons. Preparing for the day ahead, driving a familiar route and returning to a favorite restaurant are all examples of habits that add to the comfort, predictably and calm of the expected. Holiday traditions, bonfires in the fall, heading up to the cabin and other rituals add to our joy of anticipation and entertainment.

Unlike our Goldens, it is also exciting to change things up from time-to-time. Adding some additional choices to our regular, daily life might be exciting OR make us appreciate the plans inside our comfort zone.

Whether you decide to maintain the status quo or take a side road here and there, life is good. We certainly appreciate the choices we are free to make as humans. As for the Goldens...no surprises please!