Sitting in my office over a cup of coffee is not quite how people picture the life of a “dog runner.” But this is how I create balance.
Part of my day is spent romping and braving whatever North Dakota throws my way.
The winters can bring us -45 degree windchills. The next day it can be 40 degrees above zero. This is probably why most people avoid North Dakota, and it’s the very reason why I love it here. The constantly changing weather absorbs me every day. It is never boring.
The dogs do not fret about the wind or the heat or the snow or the flood or the windchill or the rain or the mud or the ice. They take it as it comes, and they help me do the same. We love it “out there.”
I go to work and my “customers” are so happy to see me, they cry. I love each and every dog I spend time with, and they love me. How’s that for a positive work environment? 
But a small part of my day is spent at my desk with at least one dog at my feet, sometimes a cat. Sometimes two cats.
Although dog running pays the majority of my bills (for now), ultimately I am a writer. A writer who loves dogs, and I’m constantly being pulled in this direction.
I left my life as an employee at our daily newspaper where I did not matter. I really did not matter. Breaking free from this burden has allowed me to think clearer about my life, take more risks, slow down, set more goals and focus on what truly matters.
I know I’m fortunate to be able to recognize and acknowledge when I’m off track.
When my life is unbalanced I can’t help anyone. I don’t have the energy to run, to stay positive, to create.
One of the reasons I love dogs so much is they really encourage me to slow down and to simplify my life. Even when I make mistakes, Ace just thumps his tail – “Oh well. You’ll get it right next time.”
So what I’m really trying to say here is thank you for sticking around and reading this blog, those new and those who have been around for a while. It is very exciting to a writer when someone – even one person – will actually read what she has to say.
This blog has always been very exciting for me, an important part of my day, an excuse for this ridiculously shy person to share something
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I love reading your blog!
Thanks! I love your blog as well!
i also love reading your blog and i like your dog ACE
Thanks!
Hey Lindsay, I love reading your blog! My reasons for blogging are similar – I love dogs and I love writing. I am going through a reassessment of my life/career/goals because I am realizing that, though what I do for a job is meaningful and gives me purpose, I am also extremely burnt out. Being with dogs (mine, especially!) recharges me and makes me happy. I am trying to figure out how I can take my love of dogs and my love of writing and make either of those into a career! Anyway, thanks so much for sharing
Best of luck to you! Just admitting you need a change puts you ahead of most people! Claire is a pretty dog!
We wish we were as active and adventuresome as you are, but love to read what you write.
Jan, the Poodles and the dogs
Thanks Jan, Poodles and dogs!
We are the lucky ones…people who found a way to bring joy to dog’s lives.
That smiley is creepy on its own!
That was a wonderful description of a day in your life. You’ve made great choices to live a happy life. Good job! Love ya big.
Thank you!!
Lindsay,
Even though I may not post often, I read your blog all the time. No matter what it is about I always seem to read something in it that makes me smile. I also feel like I know Ace and you quite well. Which is kinda what a blog is supposed to do, right? Any way keep it up and I will continue to get to know you guys that much better:)
Thanks, Shane! Means a lot!
Hi Lindsay,
.
Roma, Zoe and myself miss you a lot since we are in Minot.. Hard to find a top class dog sitter as you are. A person you can truly depend on. And I do enjoy reading your blog. All the different topics and your interesting take on things
I miss you guys, but I’m glad you got out to Minot OK and that you are doing well. Give Roma and Zoe each a big hug from me!
I love this post because it’s about you as much as about dogs! As a blogger myself, I totally understand why you enjoy it so much. I’m so glad you are doing things you enjoy. I hope you get to spend more and more of your time writing because it’s really good! And I agree, dogs do have an uncanny way of bringing balance into our lives don’t they?
Well, thanks! Keep up the good blog yourself!
Regular reader, infrequent commentor here. I love your blog because it is so balanced. You explain why you make certain choices, but do not “beat up on” those who make different (at times totally opposite) choices. I will keep reading as long as you keep writing
Thanks for the compliments, Sylv! Nice to hear from you!
So, obviously, I haven’t stopped by in a week or so, since I’m late on commenting on this post!
I’ve loved reading your blog, and I’ve learned a lot from you as well! It’s awesome that you have found work you love doing and look forward to! I think we should all take notes from you on that!
Thanks so much, Tammy!
Nice blog! I enjoy your writing style. Loved the post about running with a dog. I have a new Rottie (just turned one) and was wondering when I could start running with her. She does really well at walking, so far.
Oh did you ever find a good slogan for a race sign? I recently used a good one at the Garden of the Gods 10 Miler. Everyone smiled, laughed, and joined in….”FREE HUGS!” Try it at your next race!
Thanks! The sign I made said “Finish before the rapture.” It was appropriate timing, as the race was on May 21.
Hi Lindsay! I’ve always wondered how you found the inspiration to write so many different topics on dogs! I like your blog – and I like Ace too! Would not have guessed that you were a shy person! Want to come to Niger and share a long dog talk over a cup of coffee / tea?!
Sheba sends her love!
I would love that! And if I ever find my way over there, I will make sure to let you know ahead of time! I really like Sheba, by the way. Awesome dog!
I just stumbled upon your blog and I love it already! I’m a runner and a dog lover so I look forward to your future posts.
Awesome! Thanks for your comment!
Well, I’ve been terrible about keeping up with everyone’s blogs lately. That having been said, I’ve always enjoyed your posts. One of the things that I appreciate most is that you do such a good job of presenting so many different points of view on the subjects that you blog about. The other thing I like is reading about what you and Ace have been up to.
Thanks, Marie! I love checking in with your blog as well. I like learning about how you work with each individual dogs strengths/weaknesses and I love your photos!
I don’t blog often but love your posts, they are insightful and informative. What I love the most is that you respond to each and every comment! I think it means a lot to your readers that you take the time to do that! Thanks for sharing with us!
I love the comments! Thanks, Rick!
so sweet. thank you for sharing.
Thanks, Carla!
Hi, I just discovered your blog and I like it. Having got fed up of being the person who doesn’t matter in my job too, I have made the decision to jump ship and am starting my own dog walking business at the moment. I will be reading your posts with interest.
Awesome. I have written an ebook on how to start a dog walking business. It may interest you, and I know you’d find it helpful. http://www.thatmutt.com/ebooks/