Duffy sits on a dirt street in Taos, New Mexico
2023 has been a year of exploration. As a relatively new empty nester I’ve begun dabbling with working remotely from new locations that have long called my attention. First it was Tucson and now I’m in Taos, spending a month with the furry love of my life.
Duffy is a very attractive 3-year-old Golden Retriever, weighing in at over 100 lbs.
I’m well aware Goldens have a friendly reputation and are widely popular, but during our travels I’ve begun to wonder if Duffy might be a bit exceptional. BEFORE you roll the eyes and chastise my obvious bias, let me share some concrete examples.
About a year ago a single girlfriend jokingly commented on just how “handsome” Duffy was and inquired if he was “available”. Like, to date. Okay, kind of funny I guess. More recently the woman at the pet food store has begun calling him, “Beefcake” and insisting she is “obsessed with him”. That caught my attention.
More than good looks
Here in Taos, there’s no denying something special is going on for Duffy and his good looks. During late afternoon walks to the nearby plaza we like to sit and enjoy crazy-good sipping chocolate found at a unique little “chocolate café” called Chokolá.
You’d think Duffy was a legitimate tourist attraction. Not just children, but grown men and women exit the store and line up to ask if they may pat him. “What’s his name? How old is he? He’s so BIG!” Young mothers at the farmers market bring infants in close for a “kiss” while fellow tourists mutter, “Beautiful Dog” as they pass on the street.
This happens all day long. Duffy is indeed quite handsome, I have to admit, but his magnetism goes more than fur deep. Considering just how well it’s going for him here, I thought I'd try and crack his strategy secret and learn from a pro.
Duffy’s top strategies for fitting in and working from anywhere:
Greet everyone - and I mean everyone - with a cheerful demeanor, happy just to be alive. We’re all a little thirsty for recognition and acceptance.
Stretch out. Be yourself. It invites others to relax and feel more at ease too.
Don’t yap, bark, or demand attention. Wait your turn, keep your mouth shut, and go with the flow. You might be surprised by who is carrying treats in their pocket for those they deem deserving.
When offered a bowl of water, gratefully accept. Even if you’re not very thirsty. It makes people feel good to give.
Always clean up after yourself. No one wants to deal with someone’s mess - even if you’re extremely good-looking.
Listen to your instincts. Give others the benefit of the doubt, but when something or someone just doesn’t feel right, back away.
Be open to abundance in its many forms, be it an open rear window, a stray french fry, or a cool, muddy puddle. Small gifts abound.
Finally, lead by example. Take naps. And brush daily.
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