If I didn't have him...

Recently I’ve been thinking a lot about how different my life would be if I didn’t have Hershey. Put simply, I would be lost without him. I know that’s a very strong statement to make about one dog but I truly believe that. 

Let me explain a little bit. When I was about ten years old I was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This was before I had Hershey and while I got through that and now know how to handle and manage it, it often presents itself in other ways. When I was younger I would be terrified that something would happen to me or my family so I would do perform rituals, (that’s what they call them I believe) like turning the light switch on and off over and over. It sounds crazy, but in my mind at that time, that was the only way I could protect myself and my family.

I think I eventually realized how unreasonable that was and although OCD never totally goes away, I have a much better control on it. However, as I got older I developed a lot of anxiety. I have generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder. This is where I feel having Hershey has really helped. I worry about so many things but just looking at Hershey seems to calm me down. He also gives me something to talk about with people so instead of focusing on myself when I’m around people, I focus on him.

Sorry for the super long rant that probably made no sense, I just feel like people reading this blog should know who I am, truly. I hate being fake. Hershey gives me a reason to get out of the house on days that I’d really rather stay home and be alone. I love being able to explore new places with him. I think it gives us both more confidence and it makes me feel like I can accomplish anything. Does that sound crazy? Maybe…but I love my life, my dog, and myself. I guess having Hershey just makes me realize that more often which is what I need. I can’t wait for our next adventure!

If you got through all that without leaving, thank you. I hope to continue this blog and post as often as I can and I hope that this has given my readers, if there is any, a little bit more information on who I am. I promise not to do crazy long post like this very often; this was just something I had to get off my chest. Thanks again for sticking around.

Speaking of things that calm me down; another picture of Hershey sleeping,  I’m just a little obsessed. 

Oh, and I almost forgot! One of the highlights of my week! Snowmen marshmallows, my family just shook their heads when they saw how excited I was about these.