Cora and I are both learning about balance. One of the tricky things we are learning is how far we can go. Cora gets tired and overwhelmed and actually, so do I. When the animal behaviorist talked about the puppy socialization period, it felt urgent to get her out into the world. Getting into the car, we’d go out and explore for a few days. Going to work, play time, the pet store – there were just so many experiences to have. Then Cora’s Jekyll would appear. Snarling, snapping, refusing to walk, Cora would make it clear she had had ENOUGH. I may not know how to listen, to myself, but Cora’s message as loud and clear.
Truth is, my own life has had way too much going on. Here I am trying to force Cora forward in life and I felt like snarling and snapping myself. A very wise woman keeps reminding me that most things aren’t emergencies. It’s taken me a bit to understand the wisdom of this. Cora may help me, because she makes it very clear when it’s time to slow down.
I don’t think it was wrong to pack a lot of socialization into a short time period. The change in Cora is wonderful. She’s learning to handle herself in a lot of situations. She doesn’t respond with panic and anger when she goes some place new. We’ve taken some metaphorical spills and learned about pacing.
This week, Cora has stayed home. She’s still learning and exploring. We may have missed some important opportunities to meet dogs and people during the socialization stage. We may have also gained some valuable time. Time for her and I to bond. In this world we all rush out to do things. I’m especially amazed at today’s children, with all their activities. I know there’s value in that, but I have always believe unstructured moments can be gifts. 
Sitting on the floor with Cora and playing has been amazing. I know her so much better now. I know when she’s snarling and fierce sounding and it’s all in play and when she’s letting me and Floyd know to back off. I know she loves the shower and she doesn’t like tug-of-war.
Today, Floyd, Cora and I headed out to play. It was a good day and full of that valuable socialization. It was clear, that the break from interacting with others had done Cora no harm. I’ll write more about that, with lots of pictures, soon. But for now, I’m going to take the time to enjoy the stability of where I am right now: home with the critters I love.
