Every day around the same time, something special happens. CiCi, with her alert ears and bright eyes, starts pacing near the door. Her tail sways with anticipation, and she gives me that look—the one that says, “You know what time it is.” It doesn’t matter if I’m busy or lounging on the couch; CiCi’s little ritual is impossible to ignore. I think she looks forward to this more than anything else in the world.
It starts with a small bark or a nudge on my leg. Then she spins in circles, tail wagging like crazy, and finally dashes toward the leash drawer, where she waits impatiently, sometimes even trying to open it with her nose. Her joy is so contagious that I can’t help but smile, even if I’m tired or stressed. It’s our walk time—and to CiCi, it’s the highlight of her day.
What amazes me most is how this simple routine means so much to her. It’s not just about the walk itself—it’s the experience: the fresh air, the smells of the neighborhood, the squirrels she pretends she can catch, the other dogs she might bark at or ignore completely. It’s her moment of freedom and joy, and I think it brings her a sense of comfort and stability.
Even on rainy days, when most dogs would prefer to stay curled up inside, CiCi waits by the door, hopeful. She doesn’t care about the weather. She just wants that time with me. And truthfully, I’ve come to cherish it too. These daily walks aren’t just for her—they’ve become a healing routine for both of us.
So yes, I think CiCi looks forward to this every day. But maybe, just maybe, I look forward to it just as much as she does.
