Charlie Brown with his band mates Linus and Lucy on a recent winter walk

Fayston, Vermont.  Perhaps you’ve made a few resolutions, and you’re still on the wagon. I didn’t make any resolutions. Nope. Can’t break a promise I didn’t make.

Except for this: I vowed to continue the healthy habits I reinstated last year. I started using the gym last fall. I work there, so I should practice what I appear to preach, I thought. I’m now more active because the elliptical machine knows my name. I’ve cut my soda consumption way down, and notice I feel better when I don’t drink it. I’ve made a few other dietary tweaks so that I look and feel better, so there’s my incentive to keep it going. I’ve lost the weight I gained over the summer when my arthritis pain dragged me down, both physically and mentally. The pain is manageable, but still there.

My dogs have helped me keep my healthy habits because they have a keen sense of time and how to live a happy life.

The Pack’s Seven Habits for a Wagtastic Life:

• They remind me when it’s time for a walk. And that a walk at sunrise is beautiful.
• They make time for play. They take time to explore.
• They always know when it’s supper time, and they remind me to eat and to enjoy my food.
• They realize a reward for good behavior is mandatory. But too much of a good thing is too much.
• They insist that regular massages (belly rubs, head rubs, etc.) are necessary for well-being. But they also let me know that bathing and grooming can be skipped, occasionally. (So much time spent on my hair when I wash it every day – it’s o.k. to skip that once in awhile…)
• They know sleep is key to recovery. And that a nap helps pass a rainy day.
• They show and accept affection and gratitude with joy, every day.

If you’re looking for inspiration to make changes in the New Year, look to your furry friends. They will share their wisdom with you, if you listen.