For what seems like a very long time, I’ve been trying to be more active and spend less time sitting in front of a screen (my laptop during working hours, my TV during downtime). I love to walk, but I can come up with any number of excuses not to:

• It’s too cold/hot/rainy/snowy/windy
• I’m too busy
• There’s no one to walk with

They’re all terrible excuses, especially when you consider how much I enjoy walking, and of course the health benefits. Each one can be countered:

• Dress appropriately
• A break will allow me to clear my head and re-energize
• I can listen to music, podcasts, or recorded teleclasses on my iPhone

Self-discipline obviously wasn’t cutting it, so I’ve just undergone a major life change that’s going to make it so walking is no longer optional, but a mandatory part of each and every day. Yes – I’ve adopted a dog!

Carly is about two years old and apparently a cross between a Border Collie and a Chocolate Lab. We have already become good friends and I look forward to many walks with her. Hopefully my cat will soon come out of hiding long enough to make friends with her too!

If you’d like a new furry friend in your life, I highly recommend adopting a homeless pet. Most shelters and rescue groups do a thorough screening to make sure you choose one that’s right for your family and your lifestyle, and it’s very rewarding to know you’re providing an unwanted animal with a home. If you don’t want the stress of raising a kitten or puppy, there are lots of adults, both young and old, ready to love you. Just click on the logo below to begin your search.