Autumn

May 27, 2009 -

This week the weather has taken an abrupt turn to Fall. The air, once stagnant and overly warm, has that sharp crispness that always makes me want homemade soup, sweaters and blankets (and fall fashion, fall colors, fall fabrics, fall shoes...!) Something about this sudden change in season signals more for me this year than ever. So, lately I've been wondering, do we need the changing seasons to keep us moving forward? Every season change seems to bring with it reflection, whether it's the new year and resolutions, or spring with promises to get in shape before summer. And maybe it's the cooler weather in an otherwise boiling state, or the fact that Rosso's been running to the front door with that incredibly hopeful look that kills me when I ask him if he needs to go outside but I am definitely feeling the pull to get outside and get active. So, I decided that I'm going to get out there and walk my beloved doggies, enjoy the weather and maybe get in a little better shape while doing it. I know it'll be good for me, and it'll be good for my canines. I don't think I spend enough time with them and frankly the yard with my new home leaves a little to be desired. I figure in telling my resolve here, I may feel guilty if I have no progress to report - i.e., be spurred even more to action. I'll keep you posted. (Hint: I'd also be inspired if you have any stories of your own to share!)

By the way, I decided finally to submit a question to our Ask an Expert, because Rosso has had this annoying habit that I've never been able to break of barking when he's outside. He just barks at me to let him in (I guess I'm lucky, because he doesn't seem to bark if I'm gone or he thinks I'm gone - per my neighbors). He's seven now, so it'd be teaching old dogs new tricks, but since I have Molly she's picking up on his cue and I can't stand it. To be honest, I really didn't expect there was much I could do. So I was very surprised and actually quite pleased when our training expert, Debbie, came back with some suggestions I had never thought of. I have to say that I've been trying it for the past week in a half or so, and I've seen a marked reduction in barking from both doggies.

In particular, I started feeding them outside. But I also go out there (and honestly this was more to do with potty training Molly and being on hand to praise her duty) and hang out with them for a few minutes. I can tell they like it. I just pick up the yard (hey, it's gotta get done anyway). So now I've found a way to curb this bad behavior and keep up on my yard at the same time. I know the walking will help, too. Thanks, Debbie! ~ Shana

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