MY LIFE

Lately a few of of my girlfriends tell me “they miss me.” Some say their telephone calls to me are going straight to “VM” more frequently. Others say when I do answer the phone, it seems like I’m in a hurry to end the call. They say I’m declining invitations more than I’m accepting them, hmmmm….

This conversational topic has occurred a couple of times this year. I don’t want folks worrying about my sanity, nor do I wish to make them feel “shunned” or “ignored.”

However, I must confess – I  feel so comfortable where I am.

There I said it! I like what “I’m doing” and I like living in “Doodleville!”

I’ll be the first to admit, my life is very different these days. My priorities have shifted a bit. I am not as preoccupied as much about the things that once monopolized my time and energy.

These days, your more likely to find me in jeans, or sweat suits, and good comfy Ugg boots vs. heels and make-up. Night life has taken a back seat to pet-centric events, doodle romps and trips to pet friendly places. Manicures and acrylic nail time have been replaced with scenic places to photograph The Boys in and around the area.

Oh I still do those other things, but just not as often.

Everyday is different, and everyday gives me a story to share. It’s a busy life, but busy fits me, it always has.

Every morning I have escorts, wherever I roam. There is no such word as “privacy” in my world…

Yes this is the bathroom - Yes their in there with me!

Yes this is the bathroom – Yes they’re in there with me!

A morning walk is guaranteed to produce a visit with someone along the way…

Harley loves the little people

Harley loves the little people

When our walk is over, there’s a variety of games Leo and I play for an additional couple of minutes. This ones called hide and seek with “Wilson” 

He thinks I can't see him or his ball - silly doodle

He thinks I can’t see him or his ball – silly doodle

Once I’ve made my first cup of coffee, Harley’s focus is directly on me to ensure his breakfast is next on my agenda….

I used to be paranoid but now I ignore him

I used to be paranoid but now I ignore him

It’s time to grab the keys, my messenger bag, and we’re ready to roll…

Doodle wagon on the go

Doodle wagon on the go

On this particular day we are headed to see my Mom. She is still holding her own and will celebrate her 97th birthday on March 2nd…

They're such regulars now, they run the joint

They’re such regulars now, they run the joint

From there, it’s a trip to our favorite Pet Nutrition Center for some food and treats. Harley likes to go inside when James is working…

This guy really knows his way around pet nutrition

This guy really knows his way around pet nutrition

He spoils them rotten, so this takes much longer than the average store run…

He's gives out the best treats too!

He’s gives out the best treats too!

It’s now mid morning, and I’ve got a meeting to discuss our upcoming “Doodle Romp” in March. The Boys and I have decided to collaborate with Kate Singleton of Paracord for Pets and combine this event to support  Megaesophagus. Check out the story here and learn more about Kate, her efforts to raise $$ for MegaE and the Bailey Chairs…

Leo hanging out behind the front desk with Scott at OTPR

Leo hanging out behind the front desk with Scott at OTPR

We’re also there to meet a new furrend named Sampson.

We agreed to meet at Olde Towne Pet Resort because she’ wants to socialize Sampson more regularly and what better place than OTPR! Poor Sampson was over whelmed with Leo’s size so my Boys respected his space and gave him some time to warm up and adjust to things…

Harley & Leo are chillin while Sampson checks them out

Harley & Leo are chillin while Sampson checks them out

After meeting Sampson, and after such PAWfect behavior all morning long, it was time for some doodle fun. Jasmine came and took them upstairs to day camp while my meeting continued…

Talk about one of their favorite humans. They love her!

Talk about one of their favorite humans. They love her!

One more walk with DH before it got dark. The weather reports were calling for snow by night fall…

Yes he's walking himself because he had to go back and retrieve "Wilson" from the mailbox

Yes he’s walking himself because he had to go back and retrieve “Wilson” from the mailbox

Later that evening their eyelids were getting heavy, and quite frankly so were mine…

Leo couldn't seem to make it all the way to his bed...

Leo couldn’t seem to make it all the way to his bed…

I know balance is quintessential to a healthy life. It adds harmony, which is a good thing. I will try and do better. I will try and find balance. I will do my “doodle best” to reconnect with the rest of the two legged world. It’s hard though because my family, the boys, our adventures together, my writing, taking pictures, they all bring me such joy. So please be patient, try to understand –

This is all so new and exciting, it’s difficult not to want to give it my all. Yes, my life is very different now, but guess what?…

I’m having so much fun! Thanks as always for reading…

doodleville

6 Comments
  • Pam Wahl
    February 14, 2014

    Cathy, I totally “get” this for sure! Love the bathroom photo. Resembles mine x4.

    • Cathy Bennett
      February 14, 2014

      Thanks Pam – Based on our many convo’s I knew you would!
      I am going to try and re-connect more with the “sisterhood” This season I’m learning balance 🙂 That is the key!
      Happy Valentines Day my friend. Thanks for reading…

  • emma
    February 14, 2014

    We get it. Mom lives for us dogs more and more and she seems to have found her happy place in our dog world with our dog activities. There is nothing wrong with it. Who knows if this will be her happy place for the rest of her life or just a period of time, but if it is what makes you happy, embrace it! Happy Valentines Day!

    • Cathy Bennett
      February 15, 2014

      Thanks Emma, you nailed it – this is my “happy place” but I am going to adjust and learn balance. I’m in this for the long haul (I pray) so I’m going to work out some sort of schedule. Like only a few hours of work this weekend – HA!!

  • Kimberly Gauthier
    February 25, 2014

    I can relate. I love being at home with our dogs. It’s peaceful, there’s no effort, and I can wear what I want to wear 🙂

    I’ve made a promise to connect with friends 2x a month and hang at home the rest of the time. It’s working out so far 🙂

    • Cathy Bennett
      February 26, 2014

      I’m getting better Kim with managing, but hanging with the doods is still my all time favorite.