2/17 Wells Park was a good idea. It was closer, and Packer loved exploring the area before we even got to the trail proper. He was eager to check out any post, tree, leaf pile – potential for adventure was everywhere. He is amazing with the retractable leash. He knows how to avoid getting tangled, knows how to turn to keep it between him and me. He almost never pulls. What he does do is dance in a complicated pattern around me to maximize his coverage while matching my speed. Packer is CONSIDERATE. I mean, how do you not love that?? We wandered all around Wells Park, near the water, deep off trail, snapping pictures and munching treats as we went. He caught the scent of a creature and spent long minutes digging, sniffing, running back and forth, trying to spot or spook it. No luck though. We got back to the car, dried off, did a tick check on each other, and headed home. We talked about how we both wished we had more time, and where else we might explore on our adventures. He’s going to sleep well this afternoon, and I hope he dreams of nature walks.