There are lots of jokes and stories that capitalize on the idea that dogs, in their seemingly endless optimism and enthusiastic belief that practically every moment of their existence is the best of its kind. I’ve never lived with a dog as my consistent companion, but I’ve been around other people’s dogs, and seen the people owned by some additional dogs, and it all tends to confirm that quality of canine character. And frankly, that seems to me to be a perfect attitude to emulate, whether you belong to a dog or not.
I may not have the sort of tail that lends itself to wagging with happiness at life’s goodness and I certainly am not the kind to show my appreciation for such things by jumping up to lick anybody on the ear, but I should at the very least state my admiration for what is fine and good and pleasing so that they can know how highly I esteem such gifts. Life, no matter how a dog might enthuse over it, isn’t perfect, and it has its flaws and less than ideal moments. So when the great and admirable happens, I should jolly well share the happiness and let others in on it. Short of barking and running around in circles dizzily, I think that can be appropriately expressed in ways that let other humans in on the secret.
Happiness, whether doggy or human, is best shared, after all. And from what I’ve seen, when dogs and humans can be happy all together, that can be quite the extravaganza of joy indeed. If you feel like it, go ahead and lean back and let out a nice little howl or two of celebration right along with me, and I’ll race you to the sidewalk and back!
Art-Colored Glasses 
I am up for the race as soon as I stop chasing my tail round and round, mind you that is fun as well, the dang thing is so clever, just stays that bit ahead of me. Love this post and agree totally.
On another note you have mastered this new technology in your art like a duck to water…or…a doggy with a delicious bone you have licked it clean…hoooowwwwwlllllling with happiness.
OWOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!
Don’t worry, the Duck is coming soon too (I drew it around the same time I drew the dog, and am saving it for a little later). I *am* having a jolly time with these new toys!! 😀
xo
Aah yes, dogs, well all animals know how to live in the moment.
Have a beautiful weekend Kath.
🙂 Mandy xo
Funny that the Animal that thinks itself smartest of all is often dimmer about the truly important stuff than all of the other creatures, isn’t it! 🙂 Hope you’re having a grand weekend right now, my sweet!
xoxo!
Kath
Woof!
(((((Wags madly!)))))
I do love your illustrations….they are beautiful:) They make me smile……have a lovely weekend. x
Your notes make *me* smile almost as much as your fabulous artwork does!!! Happy weekend to you, too, my dear Janet. 😀
xo
Great post! I love the calming effects I get when I cuddle with my lil lover Oreo. He makes my stress just melt away.
I haven’t hunted yet to see if Oreo has any portraits on your blog; I’ll check in! A good snuggle with any loving person or kindly animal is miraculously healing and mood-enhancing. I think it probably increases IQ as well! I *know* it makes me feel like being a better person. 🙂
Great illustrations and a lovely post. All my animals (two cats and a dog) have their best day ever every day. They have a natural sense of equanimity that I as a human, envy. I have to work so hard to attain it yet their’s seems like a natural gift 😊 xx
I love this, Kathryn. Your posts always make me smile! Thank you. 😀
Likewise, Laura; likewise! 😀
xo
😀
Wonderful picture! 🙂
Many thanks. And “Rex” thanks you with a vigorous wag of his tail. 😉
xo
Other than when the doorbell rings and the closet becoming a way to preserve their lives let alone happiness, my cats are always in contentment mode – and often that translates into running and leaping and showing all manner of exuberant craziness; or, if too old, a roll over to display the belly with legs up in the air … Great post, Kathryn! XO ♥
Depending upon the day and my general joint health, I may be found imitating one or the other of your cats’ aforementioned activities myself! 😀
xoxoxo!
Beautiful words and an adorable illustration! I don’t know, jumping up to lick someone on the ear is probably not that great of an idea, but I really like the idea anyway! ;^)
I’m quite certain it would get a *very* lively response if one *did* do so!! 😉
;^)
Having a dog around is the best thing that I’ve done for my own emotional and psychological stability. Never underestimate the power of a puppy facial first thing in the morning. 🙂
Love *plus* moisturizer!! 😉
My dog is always happy and very friendly, Kathryn, and when I’m not in the best of moods, he’s definitely the one to emulate! Thanks for this happy post! xo
While I’ve never had the privilege of being owned by a dog myself, I have spent many a happy time in good canine company and know its elevating powers!
Love your illustrations, too! ♥ (this is when I wish our comments could be edited) 🙂
I’m always hopping right on to the Enter key too soon. But I’m glad you stopped to tell me you liked the puppy-portrait! 🙂
xoxo