TGIF!
I recently cleaned out my ridiculously large stack of unread magazines and spotted a wonderful article in the January 2011 (yeah, I’m a bit behind) issue of Real Simple. The article on 5 Things You Can Learn From Your Pet caught my eye and I immediately tore it out to share with Mitch.
1. Celebrate Everything
I am insanely hard on myself, Mitch can attest to this, and find it difficult to accept anything less than perfection when I’m working on a project. It doesn’t matter if it’s my job, packing up boxes or working on this blog. I get caught up on little details easily and have a hard time moving on.
Gus is the perfect antidote for my irrational behavior. Every day, he greets us as if he hasn’t seen us in ions and showers us with more love and kisses than we could ever ask for. He beams up to us proudly when he finishes his dinner (a big achievement in our house) and enthusiastically wags his tail after he performs a trick. Gus’s sunny disposition and adorable mug constantly remind to us to celebrate the small things.
2. Just Being Present is Enough
Living so far from our family and friends isn’t easy. I’ll admit, I cried through the first Christmas we spent in Texas. I actually managed to hold it together pretty well until I opened a present my parents had sent us. It was a hand-painted ornament of our Iowa City house. One look at the ornament and the tears started flowing.
Gus was welcomed into our home about a year and a half later and instantly brightened our lives. Now, when we celebrate holidays, we’re able to share the joy and festivities with Gus. Just having him “present” in our lives is more than enough for us.
3. (Brain) Size Doesn’t Matter
Although humans are technically smarter than dogs, sometimes we wonder. Do you know what Gus’s reaction is to something he doesn’t want to do? He doesn’t do it. Sounds pretty smart to us.
4. Don’t Try So Hard
Often while we’re packing up the house, we grow frustrated with all the work and decisions that lie ahead of us. The same goes for planning our upcoming travels. Although we try to take things one step at a time, the enormity of it all quickly overwhelms us. We could all learn a thing or two from our furry counterparts. When Gus gets stressed out, he snoozes. Again, we refer to #3. Sounds pretty smart to us.
5. You Can Get Along With Anybody
Unfortunately, social skills are not something we hope to learn from Gus. We’ve yet to address it on the blog, but Gus isn’t a fan of most other dogs. He tolerates them, but is never going to be the most popular dog at the dog park. He’s more like the mysterious guy who smokes behind the building. 😉 We’re constantly working on his social skills, but he’s definitely a work in progress.
What do you think? Do you agree we can learn these five things from our pets? Click here for the full article.
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We’ll leave you with a few photos I snapped of Gus this past week. I had a killer migraine (boooo) and worked from home on Tuesday. My consolation prize? This adorable snoozing dogger sitting next to me. I’d take a headache in exchange for this company any day.
Ahhhh…a dog’s life.
After he grew tired of his mom snuggling up next to him, he moved to one of his favorite spots in the house…his friend, Benny. Benny is a slipcover (from IKEA) over a floor pillow that we purchased several years ago. It quickly became Gus’s go-to spot to snooze after he became too hot (or too annoyed) on the sofa with us. We are not taking Benny with us during our travels and we hope Gus is okay with that. He’ll miss his best bud!
We’re spending the next few days packing up the house and keeping our fingers crossed for house showings. Have a great weekend!
According to Gus 
Anna
May 20, 2011
Dogs are great teachers aren’t they? Don’t worry so much about #5, I’m sure he is waaay more polite than the average dog. Who says he has to actually want to interact and play with everyone. Luna can be picky too, okay she is way picky and sometimes can be a brat. But when and where I can I take control of the situation, and that has helped. Sometimes if she doesn’t want to let the other nice dog sniff her butt I make her do it, in a calm way of course, and believe it or not that has helped her get used to the act of it so she tolerates it better. But not every dog is a social butterfly, or playing fool, no point expecting them to be if they simply are not. Much like people, everyone is different.
Happy Packing, I know you probably have fun planned for this weekend too 😉
Anna
http://www.akginspiration.com
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
Very true, Anna. I appreciate you pointing that out. We always worry about his non-interest in other dogs and it’s nice to be reminded that they’re all different, and it’s not necessarily a negative thing.
Happy weekend to you!
Happy.Bark.Days
May 20, 2011
You’re absolutely right, we can learn a lot from our four-legged friends. For me, #2 is something I’m trying to work on. Just spending time with Maple helps me to zone in on the present!
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
We sound so very similar (in our Type A personalities and love of moleskin journals/planners). Doggers definitely make you stop and appreciate the present!
Wendy @ iwuvwes.wuvtags.com
May 20, 2011
HA! (Love how the post is tagged “Benny” btw. Don’t think we readers won’t search for that in the future.)
My family, too, has a “go-to” spot for Wes and Wilma when they get annoyed with peeps. Spot, though, not spots. So last dog out must put up with snuggling until WE’RE done. But, then, who pays for the food? The toys? The shelter? The reindeer hoodie? That’s right. Suck it up, furry ones. We tell them it’s their job. 🙂
P.S. Wilma greets everydog in the park with a wagging tail and a play bow; Wes could give a poo about any of the other dogs, and saddles up to the people, sometimes jumping on their laps. Point being: I can now console myself with the fact that Wes’s antisocial behavior has nothing to do with pet parenting. 🙂
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
He seriously is gaga over Benny. It came with a blow up insert, but he didn’t like it, so we stuck a huge floor pillow in there. Whenever one of us says, “where’s Gus?”, the answer is normally “Benny”. 🙂
Gus sounds exactly like Wes. He immediately runs to the other people in the park, and couldn’t care less about the dogs. Maybe him and Wes could be friends? From a distance, of course. 😉
raisingdaisy
May 20, 2011
That’s a great list, and I love how you related it to your family. I definitely agree that we can learn a lot from our dogs, but sometimes the rest of the world won’t let us put those plans into action. If I took a nap every time I was overwhelmed, I’d lose a LOT of writing assignments! Have a great weekend! 🙂
AdventureJess
May 20, 2011
I think the key in #5 is you CAN get along with anybody….it doesn’t say you LIKE everybody. The way you describe Gus’ toleration he does indeed prove that point. BTW….you have dashed my vision of Gus frolicking in a grassy field with his doggy friends. Then again, he DOES always look like he has a bi tof a ‘tude 🙂
And nothing is better than a cute, snuggly doggie when you don’t feel good.
Minnie and Mack
May 20, 2011
Love the article “5Things…” They all make such good sense. I guess us humans try to analyze too much.
We cross our paws for house showings this weekend!
Drools and licks,
Minnie and Mack
Lori R.
May 20, 2011
Someone at the park yesterday said, “I would love to come back as a dog,” and pretty much for the reasons you list above. She added the caveat, “With a good owner,” and I think that’s critical for the points you make. If Gus was worried about where his next meal was coming from, or if he’d get a solid thwack for being on the couch or a pillow, he wouldn’t be such a laid-back little dude.
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
I agree completely! Although, maybe Gus should worry more about where his next meal is going to come from – so he wouldn’t be so picky! 😉
Katie
May 20, 2011
Awww Gussie does love Bennie. I hope he is okay on the trip without him. Maybe his aunt will manage to stow him away. XD
Judy
May 20, 2011
I love the photos of snoozing Gus. I’m sure he enjoyed having your company for the day. What a great list. I love your description of Gus as the “Smoking guy around the building”, that’s hilarious LOL:)
didiwright
May 20, 2011
Yep, definitely agree with the 5 points. I particularly like no. 3. I wish I was as good as not doing things that I don’t want to do…I, too, have sometimes wondered if our dogs are cleverer than us.
George is not much help with point 5, either, he is like Gus, only likes the few dogs he knows well and prefers to stay away from all the others. ‘The mysterious guy who smokes behind the building’, that’s my George. I love that phrase, very inspired!
Good luck with the packing, I hope it’s not too much of a chore.
P.S. George loves the look of Benny and wants us to go to Ikea and buy him one. I can’t believe that Benny hasn’t got a place in your luggage, what a good boy Gus is to accept the situation so gracefully. x
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
I’m the same way. I have a tendency to say yes to everything, and then regret it later. I’m glad that Gus and George can be mysterious, smoking buds together. 🙂
Pip
May 20, 2011
Absolutely, our pets have all kinds of things to teach us! I learn something everyday! Hope your house showings go well!
Your pal,Pip
Debby and Kirby
May 20, 2011
Kirby teaches me everyday! LOL he is better and more patient with people than I am. He’s happy and eager for each new day and makes me realize how much there is to appreciate.
Jen
May 20, 2011
Dogs can teach us so much, we just need to be willing to learn from them…this is the hard part!
I loved how you described Gus..:the mysterious guy who smokes behind the building” that is so funny!
jan
May 20, 2011
When I’ve had “only dogs” I don’t think they realized they were dogs and didn’t have much interest in them. On the other hand, they seemed to think that most people were not worth giving much time to either.
cate
May 20, 2011
Hope you’re feeling better! I too had a migraine this week and it’s still lingering a bit – ack! To be able to snuggle up and sleep like Gus seems perfect to me right now 🙂 So funny he has a slipcover buddy called Benny – I love that!! Have a great weekend and good luck with the house.
Kristine
May 20, 2011
Love the list! Shiva has taught me a lot more about courage and conquering fears. I consider her my personal life coach!
No worries about Gus not getting along with other dogs. It’s not always necessary. Some dogs just don’t love the dog park. I don’t think there is anything wrong with that. After all, I am not a big socializer myself. Shiva likes other dogs but seems to have even more fun playing on her own or with us. She is not such a big fan of other humans. It bothered me for a long time but I am over it now. If she doesn’t ever want to play with other people, that’s okay with me.
Kristine
May 20, 2011
PS. Good luck with the house showings!
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
Thank you, Kristine!
Miss Kodee
May 20, 2011
Beautiful photos! Kodee likes to visit with other dogs as in she wags her tail but she never interacts with them. She is always “cool”. Becky loves to play with certain dogs. I raised both the same, much like my daughters who are also totally different.
I like your list, its a good reminder on a few things.
Vicky
May 20, 2011
Another post where I’m beginning to wonder if Gus and Darby aren’t related. Darby has almost no use for other dogs, especially when we’re out and about. If we’re walking, he blows past them like they don’t exist, which is one of the big reasons why we’re always in “debate” mode about getting a second dog. I think he’d ultimately be cool with it, but I don’t necessarily think he cares about having another of his own kind.
Another kitten, however…he’s all about kittens 🙂
Carly @GreenDogLove
May 20, 2011
I love this list. Dogs really can teach us so much from their behavior and companionship. I have to share this on Twitter.
Have a good weekend!! 🙂
sandysays1.wordpress.com
May 20, 2011
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Chunyo's Corner
May 20, 2011
What a great list and wonderful reminder. YES, I totally agree that we could all learn a thing of two from our canine companions. Each pooch is different, I have had the MOST anti-social dogs. They hated everyone except each other and ME of course. Chunyo on the other hand – loves everyone. Other dogs unfortunately, don’t always feel the same. Poor thing! He needs a friend. We have the idea of getting him a friend at some point – we’ll see! 🙂 You sound totally organized. I think I could learn a thing or two from you! Happy Friday!
Donna and the Dogs
May 20, 2011
Cute post. I agree with you about that last one….my dogs don’t get along with just everyone. LOL!
Pup Fan
May 20, 2011
Really great list, and those Gus photos are adorable!
Oscar & Pauline
May 20, 2011
Like our friends at Happy.Bark.Days, Oscar reminds me to live in the moment and enjoy everything life has to offer. Stroll through the park? Huzzah! The warmth of the sun on my skin? Where’s the confetti? Sitting down to my next meal? What could be better? Being “present” is such a wonderful quality.
In addition to having the same white patch of fur on their chins, Oscar and Gus share another thing in common: tolerating dogs. Oscar will want to check out another dog, but when it comes to initiating playtime? Forget about it!
According to Gus
May 20, 2011
I couldn’t agree more and loved your entire first paragraph…especially the bit about the confetti. So true!
Their white beards just make them look distinguished. 🙂
Kas
May 20, 2011
Love this post — there is SO much that we can learn from our beloved canine companions, if we only stop and watch and listen.
LBeeeze
May 20, 2011
Those are great life lessons. I try to remind myself not to be so serious. I’m such a big fail at it sometimes. I’m sure Gus is a great teacher.
veryvizsla
May 21, 2011
What have I learned from Jersey? Take lots of naps – sleep is good 🙂
simplyshaka
May 21, 2011
I love this list and think everyone should read this! It always amazes me how I can be gone for 15 minutes yet when I walk through the door, Lincoln acts like I’ve been gone for a day. I kinda like the attention haha. I love comparing Gus to the cool kid who smokes behind the building as well 🙂
sagechronicles
May 21, 2011
I KNOW what you mean about stacks of un-read magazines, but this was clearly an article that created a lot of thought! We can all take a little lesson from our furry friends and live more in the moment. There are so many things you miss if you don’t!
Love the pics of Gus on his “Benny”! I’m sure he’ll find another favorite sleepy spot on your travels though.
Novroz
May 21, 2011
I agree with the list, tho turtles aren’t as smart as dogs but things you have mentioned in the list are present on both Kame and Kroten. especially in the being there part.
I love the moment when they raised their little head when seeing me come closed to their tanks…pets are heart warming.
Snoopy@snoopysdogblog
May 21, 2011
Hey Gus,
I think humans should take a leaf out of our book, life is pretty simple (in a Dogs eyes) and we should just try to have fun! Sometimes I think the humans over complicate things. Like your Mum says, if you don’t want to do something you just don’t do it – simple!!
My Mum often uses the phrase ‘think like a Dog’ – I think it keeps her in touch with the simple pleasures in life – no, not like sniffing hydrants, but you get the idea – tee hee
On the topic of socialising, don’t worry, Cosmo (next door) isn’t a big social body either, but we get on well, he doesn’t want to play much but it doesn’t stop me trying, when he’s annoyed with me he just tells me and I back off – I don’t take it personally though – I think I’m teaching him how to play, he’s only 3 so I think it would be fun if he’d play more with me 🙂 I’ve got my paws crossed on that 🙂
Have a fun weekend (just think, every day will be like a weekend for you soon!!)
Snoopy 🙂
MelF
May 21, 2011
What a great list! So true! As someone who is also hard on myself I can completely relate to needing to learn #1 from my dog! I can also appreciate #4. #5 is fairly true with my dogs, although Jasper tends to have a real dislike for German Shepherds. My sense is he thinks they are rude. I don’t think he is the guy smoking behind the building, like little Gus, but I would bet he would consider himself somewhat of a “rules” guy. He’s the one that lets dogs know if they need to behave and doesn’t mind letting them know. Daisy pretty much likes every dog she meets. Who would have guessed? 🙂
Loved the pictures of Mr. Gus. He truly is the most adorable little guy around. Something tells me he’s going to be the most popular member of your little caravan. 🙂
So sorry I don’t get a chance to stop by more often! I always love your posts. That’s why I love the pet blogger hop, I get a chance to visit the friends I so often wished I could visit more!
Kirby
May 21, 2011
Kirby would be smoking behind the building with Gus! I don’t worry about Kirby’s reactivity to other dogs, he can hold it together sometimes, but when he can’t I figure there must be a reason, it just takes ME a while to figure it out!
Kirby’s mom
Hawk aka BrownDog
May 21, 2011
Hi Y’all,
As to Benny…hmmmm, my Mom better save my favorite bed…but I have a favorite spot in the mountains too…favorites one place are easily forgotten when we get to another.
As for five things y’all can learn from us…of course there are lots more than five! The first one is that if you just kept your lives as routine as you keep mine you wouldn’t get migraines! My Human had one for a week…today is the first day without.
Y’all come by now,
Hawk aka BrownDog
Bailey
May 22, 2011
My mommy can relate to a lot of that list — and of course, I’m always trying to teach her lots of things. 🙂
I love the pics of Gus — he looks so comfy!! I want his IKEA pillow!
Hope your head feels better!
Happy start to the week woofs & hugs!
~Bailey
Serena
May 22, 2011
These are BILLIANT tips! I think we can learn so much from our dogs….And don’t worry too much about Gus. My dog Soda doesn’t care for most other dogs, she’s always been more excited about humans. She seems cool with it, so we decided to be cool with it too 🙂
2browndawgs
May 23, 2011
So if Gus doesn’t want to do something, he doesn’t do it? OK we must never let him share that philosophy with Storm. But since he is not fond of other dogs, I suppose he wouldn’t care to share with her anyway. 🙂
Sleeping Gus is all kinds of cute. I am days behind in my reading, hopefully the migraine is better!
Errign
May 23, 2011
So true 🙂 McKinley is ALWAYS happy, regardless of if it’s been raining for a week or if I haven’t had a lot of time to walk him…love it.
Elizabeth
May 23, 2011
Hmm, let’s see. I’ve learned not to mind being covered in dog hair, or to get too attached to wooden furniture, or anything material and within dog’s reach for that matter. 😉 (While all of that is true, when it comes down to it, don’t they just help us to live in the moment? And for me, to appreciate the smaller things that are way funner than obsessing over a spotless house.)
BTW, what’s wrong with smoking behind buildings? 🙂
The Hook
May 24, 2011
Dogs are fountains of wisdom, aren’t they? Sometimes, though, they’re just fountains!
puppymakes4
May 24, 2011
“Do you know what Gus’s reaction is to something he doesn’t want to do? He doesn’t do it. Sounds pretty smart to us.” <— Love it 🙂 Scout's, too!
Michelle
May 30, 2011
This post was so good. It’s true, we could all stand to learn a lot from our dogs! All good points.
หนังเอ็ก
December 15, 2015
What’s up, I check your new stuff daily. Your story-telling style is awesome, keep it up!
หนังโป
February 11, 2016
Why people still make use of to read news papers when in this
technological world all is available on web?