Room to Grow

Before they ever know the feel of grass beneath their paws, our puppies learn to find their footing on blankets, tucked safely inside the whelping box. For the first few weeks, their world is small and steady—warm milk, gentle hands, soft heartbeats. But then comes that magic moment: the door opens, and they step out into something new and discover room to grow.

At first, they pause—legs unsure, the wide open space is expansive. But it doesn’t take long. With each day, they explore a little further. They stretch. Sprint. Nap harder in the sunshine. And then, almost suddenly, they’re bolder. Their bodies grow strong, their spirits sure. Their confidence blooms in that wide, open paddock, a perfect example of having room to grow.

Here at Overlook Mountain Labradors, we believe those first stretches matter deeply. It’s not just about exercise—it’s about freedom, courage and trust. The moment they realize the space was made just for them, giving them room to grow.

It reminded me of something closer to home.

From Puppy Pens to Personal Spaces: The Power of Feeling Seen

We just finished remodeling a room in our house—one that had quietly waited its turn. It was the little nook where our daughter played, learned, daydreamed and curled up with her books (and sometimes her worries). But something shifted this year. I saw it in the way she stood taller, the way her dreams seemed too big for the old walls. And I knew, with that deep-down mother’s knowing: it was time.

Time to give her room to grow.

I became what some might call a crazy project mom. Sketches, late-night paint swatches, moving furniture alone while everyone slept. I swore—half joking but all in—that if it was the last thing I did, I would give her this space for her birthday. Not just a room, but a sanctuary. A place she could unfurl into. A place with room to grow.

And we did it.

When we opened the door for her birthday reveal, I saw something flicker in her eyes—not just surprise or joy, but something deeper. A spark. The light of a girl stepping into her next chapter. A space that felt like hers, ready to stretch out in—legs, thoughts and dreams alike, providing her room to grow.

As a mom, the ache is real. I know this means fewer snuggles in my bed. I know she stands a little straighter now. Her reflection holds her gaze longer. Her jokes are sharper, her hopes bigger.

But I also know: this is the way forward.

The Quiet Gift of Letting Go, and Letting Grow

Giving her space to grow is the most sacred yes I can offer. A room where her voice can echo, where her creativity can fly. Where she can rest, soar, and become.

It’s not so different from the way we raise our Labradors.

Because every being needs that moment—the one where they stretch their legs, breathe deep and step fully into the space that was waiting for them.

So here’s to growth—in every form.
To bedrooms and paddocks;
daughters and dogs;
and light, space and love.