It's taken me 43 years, but I finally found the "group" I belong to.
AGILITY.
Tonight was Chloe's 10th week of class (or there-about). She is loving it and so am I. Our first four weeks was a semi-private session. She did okay there. However, our next class (Beginner Pre-Novice) was comprised of all large dogs and little 12 lb. Chloe. Two of the dogs were Standard Poodle pups and one was a big, goofy goldendoodle. She was soooo intimidated. We missed two classes due to an issue at work that involved surveyors, but we made it for the last session and were still ahead as the large goofballs are so easily distracted. Thankfully, Cindy added us to a small dog class that is actually bit ahead of us. Tonight was the first night and Chloe did GREAT! We were sequencing 6 or 7 obstacles that she did very well. By the time we got to 10, she was pretty pooped but overall did great for it being a more advanced class. I had more difficulty than she did! Best of all is the social factor with the group.
Finally, for the first time in probably my whole life (outside of work), I feel like I found a group of people I can relate to. They are dog people and there to have fun. Most are pretty casual and easy going, and most live locally. I've been trying to attend the trials too and those are really fun. For the first time in ages I can hang around people and just enjoy talking and it has nothing to do with what I *DO*, but just who I *AM*. It is sooooo refreshing and soooooo addicting. Considering that I have an addictive personality, this is dangerous! :-) Ed let me buy several pieces of agility equipment and I can't wait!
