It's National Dog Day; What I've Learned From my Siberian Huskies...

August 26 is National Dog Day, and how well-deserving they are to have their own day! Thinking about National Dog Day (founded by pet lifestyle expert and animal behaviorist Colleen Paige, and sponsored by the Animal Miracle Network), I pondered about what it means to have a dog (or in my case, five)! That prompted me to think about what lessons I, as a Hu-Mom, have learned from my five Sibes. Here is a list (in no particular order) of the Top Ten things I have learned from my Husky "kids" that I feel has made me a better human:

1.  I’ve learned how to enjoy the more simpler things in life: the touch of a breeze, a beam of sunlight stretching across the deck, a butterfly as it flutters by, the feel of raindrops tapping my face, the smell of blooming flowers, the coolness of grass, the sound of fresh snow crunching under foot, and the taste of quietly falling snowflakes.
2. I appreciate food (even more so than before).
3. I am reminded how wonderful snuggling together can be. 
4. I’ve learned how to be a kid again and play. Topping my list are running in the yard, splashing in mud puddles, running through a sprinkler, playing Sibe football, engaging in an enthusiastic game of Slide the Sibe (between the Hu-parent’s legs), and Fetch. 
5. I’ve learned how to naturally de-stress: hanging out and relaxing with my daughter with a Sibe under each hand, each leg, and one across my lap at the end of a long day (or anytime) is pure bliss and the best way to unwind. 
6. I totally understand the meaning of trust and undying loyalty. 
7. I’ve learned even more about the meaning of patience and unconditional love.
   
8. I’ve learned a new language, Siberian Husky-ease, that I love to listen to, and occasionally speak.
9. I appreciate all things music – including the various octaves of the Sibes howling their hauntingly beautiful wolfsongs.
10. I totally appreciate Husky hugs and kisses for the priceless gems they are.

There are just so many things we can learn from our dogs. On National Dog Day, let's celebrate by spending some time with our furbabies in the style they love most--whether it’s taking them on a nice long walk, bringing them for a car ride (and stopping for some take-out vanilla ice cream from a drive-thru), playing an enthusiastic game of fetch, or dropping down to the floor for some good-time wrestling and doggie hugs! Whatever we do, let's remember how loyal our four-legged family members are and use this “holiday” to let them know even more how much we love and appreciate them.