Moment to moment

The thing about moments, is that they are fleeting. That quiet feeling of bliss that you feel when you are really paying attention to those lovely details can end abruptly, sending you in another direction entirely.

I was walking my dog, Buddy, around the neighborhood the other day, it was a beautiful afternoon, cool but sunny, really a pretty day. I was taking it slow, not one of my usual power walks. I had already done a beach walk that day at Crystal Cove Beach,  which included a killer set of stairs. So, I was just trying to give Buddy a break, so he could take his time, smell all the smells he wanted to, and have a leisurely walk.

I was so engrossed in the momentary minutia, that I had completely forgotten about the rabid boxer dog that lives around the corner. We stroll past the boxer's house, not even thinking for one minute that anything could go wrong. I bet you know where this is going... The boxer, let's call him... um, Kujo, comes charging down his driveway with his little friend not far behind, both in attack mode. Of course Buddy pulls the leash, trying to lunge back at them, and for the second time in 2 weeks, I land on my butt in the middle of the street because of this crazy animal, trying desperately to hold onto Buddy's leash. I fell hard. It was complete mayhem. Dogs barking, teeth gnashing, and me shouting from the ground trying to quickly scramble to my feet.

Uh oh, I think he sees us...

Finally my dumbass neighbor comes out and tries to get a grip on his completely out of control, rabidly insane dogs. I brush myself off, and shout a few choice phrases after him, then I notice that my hand is covered in dog shit, because I was carrying Buddy's poop bag when I fell, and smeared it all over myself. Now, that's a moment to notice!

So, maybe I'll try a little harder to not be so caught up in the "moment" when I pass the house of Kujo. From now on, being fully present is on my list of priorities. Moments come and go, and I know that they're often beautiful, but knowing full well what may confront you is equally worthwhile. I really want to be completely aware, and on my toes the next time Kujo comes charging down his driveway. But wouldn't it be nice if my neighbor would just leash the dog so that I could continue along with my head in the clouds?