New ways to experience the familiar

There's pretty much just one path to take as I walk the dog, but many ways to experience the walk.  

I listen for different types of sounds; birds, or cars far away, or wind-rustled leaves.

I imagine what people on my street are thinking about at that time of day. (imagination, not peeking).

I look down at all the plants nestled in the grass that looks more uniform from far away.

I look up at plants, yard signs, different ways of managing yards.

I look further up at the trees or the sky through gaps in the trees.

I mentally practice my new challenge of learning Mandarin as I pass the houses of native Chinese speakers, hoping for the chance to practice, "zaoshang hao, ni hao ma?"

I check voicemail. I take pictures.

I look down and realize it's time to get out a doggie bag (not the restaurant kind).

There are always new ways to engage with the familiar (this goes for family too!)

I hope you all find ways to add interest to the routine parts of your day.