Blog Hop Challenge

Apparently there is some sort of Blog Hop Challenge happening today to encourage pet bloggers to come out from behind the camera and introduce themselves. Well, for many of my regular readers, you already know that I bare my soul and probably share more than you want (or need) to know about me! But I love a challenge, so here goes:

1. Include a recent picture of yourself.

2. On December 18th, publish a post answering at least five (and feel free to answer more!) of the following questions:

What’s one thing you could do to be more kind to yourself?
I tend to be really hard on myself and have way too high expectations for what can reasonably be accomplished in a day, week, month or lifetime. Hiking makes me slow down and take time to "just be" so that is something that helps me find balance. I would like to make time to do more stretching and yoga-type activities to take care of my mind and body even more.

Other than blogging, what are three things you do that bring you joy?
Obviously hiking! Also being outdoors in nature, spending time with Charlie and enjoying a cup of coffee and a good book (when Charlie lets me!).

If you could change one thing about your life what would it be?
Life has been really good, so this is hard to answer. No matter what is going on (good or bad) I just try to be grateful for what I have. I guess I would like to have a job or career where I could spend time with dogs all day long and never go back to a desk job in Cubicleland, but someone's gotta pay the bills!

What is one thing you’ve done that you’re most proud of?
Since starting this blog, I've become a lot more self-confident. The past three years of my life have been a journey of self discovery and I've really learned who I am and what I want in life. As the saying goes, "the longest journey is the journey inward."

What one word would people who know you use to describe you?
Generous. I've always been a giving person... sometimes too giving. I'm really working on finding that balance between helping others without depleting myself completely.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I'm typically hiking or playing with Charlie in my free time, but I love that half-hour before bed when I can read a book uninterrupted while snuggling with my sleeping dog. It's a great way to wind down from the day and prepare my mind for a good night's sleep.

What do you wish you were more skilled at?
Sometimes this computer stuff gets a little overwhelming for me. Google is a great source to find answers, but it doesn't do everything. I wish I was better at web design and figuring out all those "codes."

What makes you feel fabulous?
Hmmm... fabulous? I guess when someone compliments my writing or photography, it feels pretty great. I try not to put too much stock into what others think of me, but when my family and friends say nice things about my blog, I just glow!