reflects on a challenging week, comparing it to the literal rainy weather. It discusses fluctuating business bookings, personal issues, and the inconvenience of puddles during dog walks. However, it also explores how puddles, often a nuisance, can be sources of joy, likening them to opportunities that arise during tough times. The writer uses this analogy to encourage embracing difficulties, slowing down, refocusing, and using these times for growth and reconnecting with others.

Our daughter was running down the hall this morning with an arm full stuffed animals. As she rounded the corner she slammed into our son and the animals went flying in every direction. In tears she turned and yelled, "Stop making me drop my friends!" Startled and unsure what was going on, our son yelled back, "Sorry!" After checking to make sure both were uninjured, we sat down to talk about what had happened.

We wanted to take a moment to reflect on an often-overlooked aspect of our business that is the cornerstone of not just commercial success, but personal peace of mind: the integrity of our services.

Coming to terms with the unknown means accepting that there's only so much we can control. Yet, in that vast sea of unpredictability, there's solace in knowing we always have the power to choose our response. And sometimes, amidst life's unforeseen challenges, we might discover that we're precisely the right person for the task at hand.

Well, you may not have it figured out. You may never figure it out. And honestly, no one ever will figure it all out. But here's what makes you different. You continue to try. You continue to make yourself better. You continue to grow and learn.

There's a place in Northern Arkansas called 'Lost Valley'. It sits within the Buffalo National River and was a frequent hike growing up. Before long, the flat and paved trail turns into gravel. The inclines become more pronounced and the trees grow closer to the trail edge. About a mile in, there comes a fork; take a left to stay on the gravel trail or go right to hike a far (far) less beaten path.

Ernest Hemingway, one of the 20th century's most distinguished writers, frequently explored themes of courage, stoicism, and the art of life's struggle in his works. Drawing upon his adventurous life experiences, his narratives resonate with resilience and resourcefulness, much like the inspiring words found in "The Old Man and the Sea," which urge us to make the most of what we have at hand.

Let's talk about one of the hardest parts of our job - making those heart-wrenching, tough-as-nails decisions that keep us up at night. You know the ones I'm talking about; the decisions that feel like you're walking a tightrope between keeping your business afloat and sticking to your guns, morally speaking.

Not sure if you know this, but running a small business is not an easy feat. You're doing so much, and often we try to do *everything* and end up beating ourselves up when we can’t. As much as you'd love to, you can't control everything. Market changes, unexpected expenses, that one customer who just can't be pleased? They're all actually par for the course. They ARE going to happen, regardless of what you do. What can you control? How you respond, adapt, and keep moving.

highlights the challenge of managing mental and physical clutter in professional life. It identifies two main sources of this clutter: overthinking and unfinished tasks. To combat this, it suggests writing down thoughts and concerns, using two specific lists - a 'Worry List' for anxieties and negative thoughts, and a 'Waiting-On List' for tasks and follow-ups. This approach, inspired by David Allen's philosophy, aims to free the mind for creativity and focus, moving towards a more organized and intentional mindset.

Our car started making a weird (and concerning) sound when accelerating, so we took it into the shop. Naturally, the mechanic couldn’t replicate the sound when he drove it. Did he say, “Sorry we can’t help you?” No. He said, “I believe you. Come in and drive it like you do and see if it makes the noise.” Did it make the noise? Of course not.

As business owners in the dynamic world of dog walking and pet sitting, we often find ourselves juggling a myriad of tasks - managing schedules, ensuring quality care for our furry clients, and maintaining strong customer relationships. In this bustling environment, it's easy to get overwhelmed. However, there's a simple, yet powerful mantra that can guide us towards success and balance: "Work first, then play."