Paws, Paint, and Chaos: How My Dogs Inspire My Life and Art
- javier65973
- Dec 19, 2024
- 2 min read
Dogs are more than pets; they’re family, therapy, and sometimes even comedians at times. My boys, Ziggy and Marley, have played an enormous role in shaping not only my life but also my art, my ADHD management, and my sanity. These two lovable goofballs have been my greatest supporters, my inspiration, and yes, my unwitting muses.
Let me start with Ziggy, my elder statesman. We rescued him back in 2009 when he was 2 or 3 years old, which makes him at least 17 now—or a staggering 117 in dog years. Ziggy’s age has brought some challenges: his vision is fading, and he’s either losing his hearing or he’s just perfected the art of selective listening. (Honestly, it could go either way.) Yet, the moment someone approaches the door, he’s up like a shot, barking like he’s still a youngster. It’s like he has a sixth sense for intruders—or delivery drivers. He’s earned the title of "The Original #K9Playa," and he’ll always hold a special place in my heart.
Then there’s Marley, the younger of the two, who is…well, let’s call him “quirky.” Marley is a big part of my daily routine, especially when I’m working on my art. If you’ve ever tried to paint while a dog insists on sitting directly under your easel, you know the struggle. But Marley’s antics often bring a sense of levity to my creative process. I’ve even used him in an app as our family spokespup.
When my mom passed away, Ziggy and Marley became my lifeline. They were all over me—snuggling, laying close, and looking up at me with those big, soulful eyes that seemed to say, “We’ve got you.” It’s moments like those that remind me of the unconditional love dogs bring into our lives. In those darkest times, they were my therapy—no words needed, just their presence.
Living with ADHD, I’ve learned to embrace chaos, and my boys have been instrumental in helping me find balance. Whether it’s taking Ziggy and Marley on walks to clear my head or using their antics as a distraction from overthinking, they’ve become an essential part of my self-care. Sometimes, Marley’s goofy energy is exactly what I need to snap out of an ADHD-fueled hyperfocus on something trivial (like reorganizing my paint tubes by color…again).
Ziggy and Marley are more than dogs. They’re my emotional support, my comedic relief, and my creative partners. They remind me daily of the simple joys in life: a sunny spot to nap in, a good snack, and the thrill of barking at the Amazon Delivery perosn.. And as they’ve grown older (especially Ziggy), I’ve come to appreciate every moment we share. After all, it’s not every day you get to be supported and inspired by two of the best four-legged friends a person could ask for.
So here’s to Ziggy and Marley, my greatest companions and my constant muses. Thanks for sticking by me, boys. And Marley, thanks for "talking" me out of that neon green paint choice—you were totally right.
コメント