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I Gave My Dog the Wrong Name and other Lessons I Learned From Oakley

For the record, Oakley is a fabulous name, but given his fondness for sloppy kisses...French Kisses would have been a more accurate moniker.



Regardless, Oakley is a fluffy gift who continues to challenge, inspire, and anchor me. Here are some of the many lessons I have learned from him:

1. Greet everyone like a long lost best friend (makes for slow beach walks, but worth it)

2. Express affection daily to your closest inner circle

3. Make time for joy (do what you love)

4. The journey matters more than the destination and is oftentimes 10x more delightful

5. Mistakes happen, make amends and move on with your day

6. Love knows no bounds

7. Belly rubs are essential to well-being (or your equivalent, hugs or hand holding work, too)

8. True beauty has nothing to do with outward appearance

9. Rest when you need to



10. Persistence pays off

11. Daily walks outside make your soul happy

12. Size does not matter

13. Being fabulous requires that you have no idea how fabulous you are. You just are. End of story.

14. Sometimes you have to bark ferociously* (the ferocity level is relative) to get your needs met (stand up for yourself)

15. It’s ok to have treats, in fact it makes life sweeter

16. Let yourself be quirky, authenticity is better than perfection

17. Your purpose will find you* (he is my unofficial therapy dog, very much living his purpose daily)

18. In stillness, we find ourselves home (wherever that may be)

19. Stand up for your friends

20. Be a little mischievous sometimes, it keeps life interesting



All beings have something to teach us.


Thank you Frenchie, I mean, Oakley. You paint ribbons of love wherever you go and our life is more colorful with you in it.



Inward & Onward,






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6 comentarios


Invitado
04 jun 2023

You’re right Frenchie is cute but Oakley is the right fit for your furry baby. 🥰 It’s amazing what our pet babies can teach us daily. Keep living life to the fullest! Another great post, thank you. ❤️💜

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Diana DeVaul
05 jun 2023
Contestando a

Thank you❤️🐶! Grateful for all the love and lessons he offers me and the world.

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Invitado
04 jun 2023

Amazing that a pet can teach humans so much…but it is true. A beautiful list to live by. Good job Oakley!

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Diana DeVaul
05 jun 2023
Contestando a

He’s a wise little, lovable soul!🐶💕

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solivolo
04 jun 2023

An amazing list Daina! Favs: 1 and 12. We are all busy but making An effort to greet with happiness and joy makes for a better day for all. At my size - well - nuff said - big emoji lol inserted here. Cheers to all!!

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Diana DeVaul
05 jun 2023
Contestando a

You made me smile with that #12. We are all exactly the right size!😂 Let’s spread some joy today❤️

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