There's no better homecoming than walking through your door and having your dog's excitement explode through the roof!

YOU'RE BACK!!!! WAG.WAG.WAG. WELCOME HOME!!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'RE HERE! WAG. WAG. LET'S PLAY FETCH!!! CAN WE PLAY NOW? HOW ABOUT A BACK SCRATCH? WAG. WAG.CAN I WALK BETWEEN YOUR LEGS? OH BOY! YOU'RE HOME!!! HAPPY DAY!!! CAN WE FETCH NOW? I'M SO GLAD YOU'RE BACK!! WOW!!! OH BOY!! I BETTER GO PEE! CAN WE FETCH NOW? ANOTHER BACK SCRATCH? I CAN'T BELIEVE IT'S REALLY YOU. LET'S PLAY!!!! WAG WAG.

Such was the response when Team Phenix came home yesterday. I was especially appreciative of this greeting since a dear friend of mine lost her beloved pet this week (which makes me weepy just thinking about him!). We learn so much from our animals and yesterday's experience reminds me to follow my dog's lead a little more as I approach life.

In fact, we all could do better to remember these 7 things.

1. Ignore Bad Moods

Why do I allow some else to determine my mood? Just because Eeyore wanders across my path doesn't mean I have to accept his attitude!

2. Do What You Do Best

Are you a great retriever or do you excel at digging? Are your skills best suited to outdoor tasks or are you more of a deep thinker? Find your strengths and use them with all of your might!

3. Be Enthusiastic

Your attitude is contagious, so always put your best face forward, even when it's difficult or you're tired!

4. Wag More Than Bark

The world has enough anger, frustration, and irritability - don't play in that field. Instead, figure out how to be less demanding and bring a happy disposition to every situation.

5. Be Loyal

Relationships require work. People don't always do what you like, no matter how much you whine want them to behave differently. Stick with people when times are good or bad, there will be plenty of both!

6. Play Hard

Lighten up and MAKE moments of joy! Play is a great release for any stressful season, so jump in and see who follows!!

7. Get Your Rest

Nothing helps your attitude more than rest. Slow down often enough to recharge and recalibrate!

I mean, look at the world today, it's amazing! Running - AMAZING! Chasing Cars - AMAZING! Sticks - AMAZING!

Carpe Diem friends! Grab the Frisbee!!

7 Ways You Can "Be More Dog"