Fit and Fabulous Over 40

So I recently (and quietly I might add) celebrated another birthday milestone. This birthday, unlike others, catapulted me into the over 40 category. A lot of my younger friends have been trying to cheer me up with typical statements like “you’re only as old as you feel” and “42 is the new 22.” Is that a fact?! So in attempt to recapture my youth I decided to embrace my fit and fabulous 42 year-old self (7 years old in human years) and here’s what unfolded:

1. Recovery rate has a whole new meaning: Back in the good old puppy days I could go on a 10 hour play bender and still have energy to spare! Now? A 3 mile hike with The Paw Pack sets me back half a day. Maybe I should look into orthotics…

2. Receding fur line: While I continue to push the high activity envelope I have been noticing I’m losing more fur in the process. Call it coincidence but in my opinion being a balding yellow lab over 40 would not be a good look for me.

3. Weight gain: Now this is partially my fault as I have a daily toddler feeding source at my disposal, which contributes to my expanding waistline. But despite my high activity levels I am starting to think I will never be a size medium again.

4. Keeping up with the Joneses (AKA The Paw Pack): I used to get so thrilled to go crazy with my friends everyday at the park and now some days all I want is a nice peaceful walk followed by a giant nap.

My parents tell me to buck up and stop acting like an old man. I suppose they have a point. I have a lot to live for and so what if I need to modify my routine a bit to make a 7 o’clock bedtime? Let it be known that I can still outplay any of you puppies out there! Although don’t expect to see me at the park the next day or maybe the day after…