Danielle Peterson

Dogs are such a treasure.

I never realized just how funny dogs can be until we got our puppy last year. Growing up we never had any pets, so even though I enjoyed playing with friends’ dogs on occasion, I missed out on some of the quirkier parts of their personalities.

And boy, does our dog Alta have A LOT of personality. She is generally a sweetheart, and usually a sleek and intimidating breed, but then at other times she can also be a total goof.

I love Alta for so many reasons. She has been such a joy and a light for us. I’ve watched her bring out this twinkle of boyhood in my husband’s eye. She’s helped me to be more relaxed and carefree. She makes us both laugh. But one of the greatest benefits is how she’s gotten us outside so much more.

I would not say I am a homebody.. but I also wouldn’t say I’m not a homebody. Especially during the colder months, I feel like my normal inclination after a long day of work is to retreat to my covers with a good book or mug of hot cocoa.

While I enjoy the outdoors immensely, I often get distracted by the minutia of life and end up staying inside.

And yet, my soul still craves that time outdoors- breathing in the fresh crisp air, listening to the whistling tune of birds nestling in trees nearby, and gazing out over the beautiful mountains and pastures near our home.

Alta helps me do that. With her around, I can’t just hide in my den of blankets. She needs a walk; she needs my time and attention. And maybe without always realizing it, I need those things too.

Today I met my husband after work at our favorite dog park where he had taken Alta on a bike ride.

She always gets so excited when she realizes she’s going to the dog park. And as soon as we get inside, it’s “goodbye humans!” And “hello, dog friends!” She LOVES to get the other dogs to play with her.

Spring where we live is usually a chaotic blur of sun, rain, hail, snow and just about any other version of downfall you can imagine. And today was no different. We experienced a broad range today of beautiful thick snowflakes, soft rain, and brief but beautiful glimpses of sunlight.

And with the spring weather being so unpredictable, I like to dress warm and come prepared.

Today I donned the necessary thermal under layers, C.C. Beanie Hat, Columbia wool sweater, Columbia jacket and one of my all time favorite outdoor shoes- my classic black Hunter boots.

I have owned my Hunter boots for a few years now and I can easily say they are one of my best go-to shoes for spotty weather.

I love their timeless and classy look that can be worn with rugged outdoor gear or a nice spring dress. But more than that I love how versatile these boots are.

Not only are they great as rain boots when the landscape gets muddy (which is perfect for places like the dog park), but with a good fleece or down lining sock, they become amazing waterproof snow/winter boots. Honestly, these have been more durable and cozy than boots I have owned that were specifically made for snow.

I promise this isn’t a sponsored post from Hunter, I just really love these boots that much! So if you’ve been on the fence about getting them- consider this your sign and do it! You won’t regret it!

When I ran out the door to head over to the park, I wasn’t expecting the gloomy rainy/snowy weather to subside and the sun to come out and show off before the close of the day, but she didn’t disappoint.

I’m so grateful that my dog pushes me to get outside and enjoy more of the beauty that surrounds us everyday. Even on the mud puddle days.

And as my husband always says, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.”

DP