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Good Grief continued...

So what kind of decisions should you make during those 24/7 911s? Well, the balance BG figured out this time around is this: a rich blend of (1) nice and kind and good and gentle and special ways to take care of yourself (sleep a little later, get an expensive and mayo-laden lobster roll at the fish market), but also (2) tether yourself to the tasks that, pleasant or unpleasant, keep you feeling sane and normal and head-above-water, that remind you that life goes on when you make sure it does. Don't miss deadlines; or give a clear heads-up (and alternative date) if you will. Do a level or two lower on the Stairmaster, but don't not go to the gym. Be a part-time wreck. As I love to say, hey: it's Wallow City, and you're the Mayor. But Mayors still have jobs to do.

One decision you should not make precipitously, though, is to get a dog. Or one for your ex. (Also, don't get a pet based on your mood, or you will come home with a hermit crab.) Even though a recent British study practically proved that walking a dog increases your social interaction and thus your happiness. OK. But...not until you know exactly what you're doing, for a long, long time. A Dalmatian in your stocking is only cute 'til the morning after. As BG tells Dog Tired, "dogs do not bring stability. You want stability, get a fern." But if you're willing to put in the time and the scratching post, a little unconditional love can go a long way (see Shoutouts # 5 and 9 to Tim).

And now I'll leave you with a bunch more links to keep you busy. Me, I'll do what I need to do for now (like read this book), so that next week BG may once again -- as Breakup Dog now will forever -- run with the wolves.

NEXT:
BG's pet features!