Hi, everyone!

I know it’s been a while since I’ve posted, and I wanted to give you all a little update on why things have been quiet on my end. I had been working on putting together a course for us to tackle the winter blues, but recently everything’s gone on hold because… drumroll please… I have a new puppy!

A dog sitting on a step, one of life's little surprises, brings a simple joy.

Now, those of you who’ve raised a puppy before are probably chuckling knowingly. It’s been 15 years since I last had a puppy, and boy, am I feeling it! I’m exhausted!
This little ball of energy is keeping me on my toes 24/7.

Some of you might remember my beautiful German Shepherd mix, affectionately known as Depression Dawg to our Facebook group. She passed away in March after 14 wonderful years together.

A dog with a brindle coat and a "Banff Canada" bandana sits on a beige couch next to a person in a red top and maroon pants, hand resting on the dog. Life's little surprises are captured in moments like these. In the lower right corner is a logo with "Growing By Degrees.
Photo By vancouverpetphotography.com

I have to be honest, I think I’ve been grieving her more than I realized. She was more than just a pet – I credit her with saving my life when I was battling severe depression. She gave me a reason to get out of the house and meet people, and truthfully, she taught me far more than I ever taught her. I haven’t had much enthusiasm for writing since she left us, which I now recognize as part of my grieving process.

We had decided we’d get another dog eventually, but we were thinking it would be next year. We were planning on a mid-size, hypoallergenic breed. But you know what they say about the best-laid plans…

A fluffy brown puppy is lying on a patterned blanket on a couch, as if pondering, "where have I been?" A logo in the bottom right corner reads "Growing By Degrees: Becoming Who You Are One Step At A Time." The puppy, embracing life's surprises, looks at the camera with its front legs stretched forward.

Life threw us the most adorable curveball in the form of Depression Dawg 2!

He’s just 13 weeks old, and is neither mid-size nor hypoallergenic. 😊 This little whirling dervish is a Miniature Australian Shepherd mixed with both Pomeranian and Papillion. At full growth, he might reach 27 lb (12 kg), which is quite a change from my 70 lb (32 kg) baby girl.

Oh, and did I mention he’s a ‘he’? That’s a whole new ball game for me! Those of you with boys or boy pets will know exactly what I mean!

So, while I haven’t been as active here as I’d like, know that I’m still thinking of you all. As I navigate this new chapter with my furry friend, I’m learning new lessons about joy, patience, and living in the moment – all valuable tools in our ongoing battle with SAD.

I promise I’ll be back with more regular posts and that winter course soon. In the meantime, feel free to share your own pet stories or any tips for raising a high-energy pup in the comments. Your experiences and wisdom are always welcome!

Take care and stay pawsitive!

Get your hands on a complimentary self-care list specially designed for those feeling down. This free resource includes numerous activities and practices to help combat the difficult emotions associated with sadness. Don't miss out on this

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