Is it time for a nap yet

March 24
I was totally discouraged this morning after my final route in Portland. It was a solo route without input from the trainer who was still behind watching, but not directing or correcting. I made a few mistakes, but thought I had done alright. However, after going over the route with my trainer, she said some things about some of my choices on the streets which hurt quite a lot. To tell the truth, I just wanted to go home and have a nap. She did say that she knew I had given 200% during our class these past 2 weeks, but was still concerned about some things. I didn’t know what I had left to offer since I really have been throwing my whole self into this learning.
After Portland, we drove to the airport to go through security as practice. We learned how to get through with our dogs. I think Nadine used to work for TSA because she seemed to know exactly where to go and weaved in and out of the crowds of people. She was definitely excited to be there.
Then, I came back and had an hour nap to recover- body and mind. That helped a ton. After dinner, we went on another night route which was optional. I really didn’t want to do it after my morning discouragement, but sucked it up and went anyway. I prayed to Heavenly Father to help me work well with Nadine and to have good instincts. I consecrated my fear, anxiety, and disappointment in myself to Father, and asked him to bless me with more strength than I had. That is exactly what he did. I was calm, and made Nadine go slowly so I felt as little stress as possible. Nadine took her turn having an off route, but I handled all the curves she threw at me.
My trainer said that I definitely had to work for that route, but that I had done a phenomenal job. Now, that was more like it! Isn’t it great how merciful Father is, even about a dog route in the dark? I am so grateful that he cares for me and helps me.