Positively Tuesday- Really Simple Pleasures

      No lie, it was a hard week, and some hard realities faced.  Some things are getting tough right now, but I think that's because the hard work has to kick in to see the positive results, and we're in the hard work stage. That's rather cryptic, I know, but let's just say life was up and down. It was a week to really lean into simple pleasures and not get frustrated or discouraged about the challenges. My week to recap is Tuesday to Monday.

Tuesday: I enjoyed breakfast with two newly aquainted colleagues at the conference. We had good conversations about dogs, puppy and older dog challenges, and I felt better about our puppy/ elder dog relations. The morning sessions ran smooth, as did my drive back. I was able to hands free join a meeting by phone. The dogs were happy to see me and we had a good night. 

Wednesday: I felt good using a ton of the odd tomatoes from my daughter's garden to roast with other veggies in my freezer. I'll take that as my positive. The work day was long- three different two hour training sessions while my email box filled up again, but hey, job security right? 

Thursday: DH had the day off and I was glad he met a friend out and about. It's actually easier for me when he's not here. Hence why my in office day will  be Thursday eventually. The weather had gotten warmer and I was able to take a long midday walk with dogs. It really helps shake the cobwebs. Another joy was he did not go into work at all, though took a few calls. We actually ate supper together. 

Friday: With the MEA fall school break, so many people were off. I was able to work heads down and catch up a bit. The afternoon though was a work of frustration with the interruptions I shared on Saturday. Fortunately, the dogs were kind to me, and just gave me love. DH and I watched TV together and had a nice dinner.  

Saturday: DD1 came and we had a successful socialization with grandpup downtown and in the brewery. He's not ready to hang for trivia night, two hours would be a big expectation, but a good first step. Later, DH and I had dinner with friends. The day started with some challenges but ended positive. 

Sunday: DH and I attended church in person. Despite my frustration of organized religion in the last few years, I found I enjoyed and needed this. More positives with fetch, retrieve, and come back play with the puppy. That will be great for additional exercise besides long walks. This dog needs to run. Bonus joy, the neighbor's kid got the truck running and left with it last night. It was not there Monday morning. Fingers crossed the situation has been resolved on all fronts. 

It's almost like having young kids again.

Monday: Grandpup is here until November 3 full time to ease in everyone's schedule, and my daughter gone next weekend. Seeing the difference from five weeks ago is astounding in his listening, disposition, and direction following. He has his " looking to be naughty" moments as DD1 describes, but he's essentially a teen ager/ two year old. Plus, his appearance is so different. Part of course is just growth, but amazing what regular meals, positive exercise, training, and love can do. His coat is silky and full, and eyes trusting. He's  still a puppy and learning but on  Monday, he had a really good day norming. 

     DH received some devastating news so I'm trying to put our challenges into perspective. Edited to add the news was a death of a close friend, unexpectedly.  Life sure can kick us, but it's important not to kick and scream back, but dig into roots, cause, and find solutions. When we can focus, or at least let our mind move to the good stuff, it does help the trials, helps heal the wounds those blows cause. I want things better, but just wanting isn't enough. It's hard work most of the time, mental and physical. Today is a new start, every day is, to leaning in to anything that provides joy.  Please feel free to share your joys, simple pleasures, and smiles.