5 Things We Can Learn From Puppies

Our family welcomed a beautiful puppy into our home in July. Tucker is the fourth dog to join my family over my lifetime, and the third Lab. Each of the wonderful companions who came before him enriched my life in countless ways. Likewise, in just a couple short weeks, Tucker has taught me several lessons:

1. Allow yourself to be amazed by the amazing. A colorful butterfly caught Tucker's eye and he was spellbound. He was so taken by the lightening bugs surrounding him in our yard I had to catch one so he could inspect its glow up close. It's the first lightening bug I've caught in at least 40 years. He helped me to appreciate anew the fact that they are amazing and unique little creatures.
2. Default to joy. Tucker seems to celebrate each new encounter. And, each person he has encountered has smiled broadly and returned the joy. His instinct, even upon meeting our put-out feline, was to invite her to play. So far the answer has been "no," but he keeps, joyfully, trying.
3. Take just a moment to appreciate the little things. Tucker doesn't miss a thing. Every item, large and small, that crosses his path is worthy of at least a moment's inspection. Why walk right past something when you can pause and, perhaps, discover something really interesting?
4. If you're fortunate enough to have five senses, use them. Appreciating the little things requires the full flexing of your senses. Tucker tends to taste too many things, but you still have to admire a guy who understands his tools and puts them to work.
5. Earn your sleep. And, take full advantage of it. Like most puppies, Tucker plays hard and sleeps hard. He doesn't skimp on his playtime, and he gets plenty of peaceful sleep.
   

My family is looking forward to many amazing, joyful, little, sense-filled days with Tucker. Then we'll all get a good night's sleep.