Our Ever-Lovin' Dog

Thanks to everybody for your comments. It’s great to get going and have so much feedback so soon.

Here’s a picture of Rufus, the ever-lovin’ dog. He turned nine years old yesterday. Still acts like a puppy, and I’m so grateful for that. Someone told me during my pregnancy that I should begin to “detach” from my dog, so that he wouldn’t blame the baby when the baby got more attention than he dog did. I was appalled at the thought! Rufus was my companion all during my single years. He deserved better than that. Besides, I knew we’d be home A LOT with a new baby, and that is his idea of heaven. He hates being left alone. Rufie’s claim to fame was being Best Dog at our wedding. He didn’t actually come in the church, but he was there to greet folks as they came in the front door, big bow tied around his neck, tongue hanging out. Priceless in my eyes.

Rufie’s life, like mine, is much different than it was nine years ago. We've both had to cut back significantly on our morning runs and trips to the river and the dog park. Still, I watch him with Lil’ T, patient and trustworthy as she takes away his chew bone, only to give it back, over and over, and I know he’s happy. When I find myself picking dog hair off of every raisin, cracker, or sippy cup that hits the floor, I know without a doubt that I wouldn’t change an ever-lovin’ thing.