This afternoon the children & I went out for our semi-daily stroll around the neighborhood. It was gorgeous and I was feeling brave (AKA crazy), so I decided to try to take our lab, Haley, with us on a leash. I did this a few times in our old neighborhood and she seemed to like it, so I thought she might enjoy checking out the world on the other side of her new yard.
A few things I should mention about Haley, she is 3 1/2 years old and very unruly. She has been through lots of dog training and obeys R, but does not respond to my voice commands AT ALL. She wears an e-collar for our electric fence and goes berserk with excitement on the rare occasion that we take her out of the yard for a walk. She weighs about 70 lbs and is strong as an ox when she is excited.
But, like I said, I was feeling crazy today. So, the thought of pushing a triple jog stroller with 80+ lbs of cargo through my hilly neighborhood while trying to control a strong, wild lab on a leash made perfectly good sense to me. By the way, for those of you who do not know me in real life, I am not a large person, nor am I particularly coordinated, strong or athletic.
Before we had even left the driveway, I was shouting, "Heel, Haley. Heel. HEEL!!" After repeating this several times, while pushing the stroller, snatching the leash and ridiculing myself mentally for such a dumb attempt, P suddenly shouted, "Egg. Egg! EGG, Haley! Egg!"
Of course, I started giggling and asked, "P, did you say egg?"
"Yes, Egg. EGG!"
"Why are you saying egg?"
"You tell Haley, Heel. I say, Egg."
OK....
After a few minutes of this, I decided to make an example out of the dog and told the children that since she could not obey, Haley lost the privilege of a walk with us. We returned her to the yard, but, alas, she had tasted freedom and decided to run back out of the yard and into the street, despite her shock collar.
There I was again, running with the big purple stroller full of children yelling commands to my disobedient, unintimidated dog. Again, P started yelling, "Egg. Egg, Haley! EGG!" in the sternest voice he could muster. This time, K & R joined in. A chorus of toddlers screaming "Egg!" as we chased a large dog down the street-- I can only imagine what the neighbors must have thought.
Eventually, I got her back on the leash and put her in the garage so we could continue our walk. (We had yet to make 2 houses down at this point.) A few minutes later, as I was pushing the children up the steepest hill in the neighborhood, K said, "Mommy, you are workin' really hard."
"Yes, honey."
"You want some of my water?"
"Yes. That is so nice. Thank you."
Then, R interjected, "Mommy, you say (Pant) (Pant) (Pant) like a dog!"
Later, as I was reflecting on the Haley fiasco, I asked P, "When you said 'egg' to Haley, what did that mean?"
P: "It means, don't get squished by a car like a bug, Haley."
K: (earnestly)"If Haley gets squished, we cry and cry. Then we not have a dog anymore."
Me: "Yes, that would be so sad."
K: (Perkily) "But, then, we could go to the store and get another dog & it be Ok."
She is clearly quite attached. Almost as attached as her mother.
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query haley. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query haley. Sort by date Show all posts
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Wednesday, October 03, 2012
Rest
I haven't been writing much lately because I am all over the
place...mentally and physically. In addition to our busy weekend, my
husband flew to Chicago for a conference Sunday and I traveled to join
him for a brief getaway yesterday. This quick escape is wonderfully timed. Life for me right now is FULL--full of duties, worries, decisions and circumstances
beyond my control. And as I search for how I am to respond to it all, I
keep being reminded of my nine year old chocolate lab, Haley.
Haley spent the first seven years of her life as an 'outside dog.' We live on a large lot with an invisible fence, so she was able to run and play or nap in the sun daily, then retire to her kennel in the garage at night. When my trio started eating from high chairs, Haley was also granted admission to the kitchen after meals. She was far more efficient as the clean up crew than this weary Mama. It was an enviable 'dog's life.'
A year and half ago, while playing fetch, Haley blew out her knee. The injury left her lame and after a trial of six weeks of indoor rest she had surgery. Her post-operative instructions called for four more months of indoor rest. Her knee is now completely healed. Her physical health has been restored. Yet, the combined six months of indoor life changed Haley.
She is now an inside dog that sometimes (reluctantly) goes out. Our family has bonded with her on a level much deeper than the more recreational enjoyment we experienced before. When we are outside she wants to be there. She still loves to run, play, fetch and swim, but when we go back inside she insists on accompanying us.
I thought at first it was because of the weather, but it has become clear it is about our presence. She has traded 'freedom' for relationship. She simply wants to be where we are. She waits anxiously for us to come home. She tries to get in my car when I am taking the children to school. Home for Haley is wherever we are.
Earlier this week as I sat down to work on my laptop Haley came and collapsed at my feet. As she laid her head on her paws she let out a sigh that I envied. It was a clear indication that she was relieved and completely at peace. Then, she took a nap.
God used that moment to speak to me. THIS is what I mean by abiding, Jen. THIS is the type of peace and rest I want your soul to find in my presence. THIS is why I wanted Mary at my feet, not in the kitchen scurrying. Slow down. Stop fussing and fretting. REST in me. Not because you know how it will all turn out, but because I AM ENOUGH.
It's humbling when God has to use your old dog to teach you a lesson...but He did.
I am often far more of a yappy dog in my relationship with Him. Jumping up and down, barking, whining, begging for what I want from my Master. He doesn't reject me for that or put me out, but the most intimate moments are those when I collapse at His feet with a sigh and find comfort and rest. Today I am challenged to be more like Haley.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29
Haley spent the first seven years of her life as an 'outside dog.' We live on a large lot with an invisible fence, so she was able to run and play or nap in the sun daily, then retire to her kennel in the garage at night. When my trio started eating from high chairs, Haley was also granted admission to the kitchen after meals. She was far more efficient as the clean up crew than this weary Mama. It was an enviable 'dog's life.'
A year and half ago, while playing fetch, Haley blew out her knee. The injury left her lame and after a trial of six weeks of indoor rest she had surgery. Her post-operative instructions called for four more months of indoor rest. Her knee is now completely healed. Her physical health has been restored. Yet, the combined six months of indoor life changed Haley.She is now an inside dog that sometimes (reluctantly) goes out. Our family has bonded with her on a level much deeper than the more recreational enjoyment we experienced before. When we are outside she wants to be there. She still loves to run, play, fetch and swim, but when we go back inside she insists on accompanying us.
I thought at first it was because of the weather, but it has become clear it is about our presence. She has traded 'freedom' for relationship. She simply wants to be where we are. She waits anxiously for us to come home. She tries to get in my car when I am taking the children to school. Home for Haley is wherever we are.
Earlier this week as I sat down to work on my laptop Haley came and collapsed at my feet. As she laid her head on her paws she let out a sigh that I envied. It was a clear indication that she was relieved and completely at peace. Then, she took a nap.
God used that moment to speak to me. THIS is what I mean by abiding, Jen. THIS is the type of peace and rest I want your soul to find in my presence. THIS is why I wanted Mary at my feet, not in the kitchen scurrying. Slow down. Stop fussing and fretting. REST in me. Not because you know how it will all turn out, but because I AM ENOUGH.
It's humbling when God has to use your old dog to teach you a lesson...but He did.
I am often far more of a yappy dog in my relationship with Him. Jumping up and down, barking, whining, begging for what I want from my Master. He doesn't reject me for that or put me out, but the most intimate moments are those when I collapse at His feet with a sigh and find comfort and rest. Today I am challenged to be more like Haley.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28-29
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Earning the Right
From the tadpole currently growing in a tank on our kitchen counter to every other type of creature God made, my girl is an animal lover. She absolutely delights in our pets and their antics. Recently, she has formed a particularly tight bond with our 8 1/2 year old lab, Haley.
(This picture is a couple of months old, but it illustrates their friendship.)
Haley sleeps in our kitchen, so each morning when we come downstairs for breakfast her full bladder and empty stomach make her very excited to see us. She dances around the room with great gusto. Because of her size, it can be intimidating for my children.
R is a little moody in the morning, so he avoids being the first into the kitchen. He just doesn't want to deal with all the action when he is still waking up. P, on the other hand, is always famished after a good night's sleep, so he ventures into the kitchen despite the hyper dog. I immediately hear something to the effect of "Ha-aa-ley! Down, stop, quit, sit, Mo-oo-om!"
K, however, simply giggles and says confidently, "Ha-ley, sit!" And the dog obeys.
It drives my boys crazy. P tries every voice he can muster--changing his inflection, deepening his tone--but his command to sit is seldom (if ever) obeyed.
This morning, as I watched the scenario unfold yet again, a teachable moment presented itself. When P exclaimed his frustration that Haley only listens to K, I asked him if he had any idea why. I explained that I think it is because K has invested in Haley. She feeds her, pets her, talks to her and rubs her. Haley sees evidence that K cares for her. K isn't always telling Haley what to do. Most of the time she is just loving her--and as a result Haley respects and listens to K.
Hmmmm. As the words came out of my mouth, it was a lesson to my heart.
In Young Life circles it is referred to as "earning the right to be heard." It is similar to the old adage that a person doesn't care what you know until they know that you care.
Truth be told, it is relatively easy to stand on the sidelines and shout out directions to people. It is another thing entirely to enter into their world and earn their trust and respect.There is a lot of application to my daily life and interactions with people.
Truth be told, it is relatively easy to stand on the sidelines and shout out directions to people. It is another thing entirely to enter into their world and earn their trust and respect.There is a lot of application to my daily life and interactions with people.
Who knew that a little girl and her old dog could wind up teaching me such a challenging lesson this morning?
Monday, April 07, 2008
A Man and His Dog
Since I met my husband he has wanted a Labrador retriever. As a single surgical resident it simply was not practical for my man to own a pet. He could barely find time to feed and water himself as he took in-house call every other night on many rotations. Frankly, at one point during a low point of our courtship I consoled myself that he would HAVE TO get married one day--if for no other reason than so someone could take care of his dog. (I am only kinda kidding! :-)
We were married in his final year of residency in Atlanta. We knew we would be moving to Virginia for a year of advanced training, so the purchase of "the lab" was delayed. In Charlottesville we lived in an apartment that did not allow pets without a hefty rate increase, so the dog purchase was postponed again. But, we spent that year researching exactly which breeder, what color and what gender lab we would be adopting.
As soon as we made the decision to move to our current city, we placed the deposit down on our girl. We were in the throes of our infertility diagnosis--and feeling quite maternal and paternal. The day we picked Haley up we were giggling and elated. I have entire videos of us doting on her. The next month we discovered we were expecting! A month after that we discovered it was triplets. Poor Haley. Her time in the spotlight was so very short-lived.
Because my hubby's hours are quite extensive, I was the primary caregiver for our girl. As my belly grew bigger and my exhaustion became overwhelming her antics began to wear on me. As if housebreaking her wasn't enough of a challenge, she was a digger, a chewer and an escape artist. Her favorite trick was to run next door to our neighbor's garage. They always left their garage door open about 2 feet off the ground so their dogs could come and go to their kennels. I could see the glimmer of glee in Haley's sweet puppy eyes as I (and my big tummy) would climb under that garage door at 7am each morning to retrieve her. Did I mention I was generally dressed professionally in work clothes as I attempted this maneuver? My excitement about Haley started to turn to reluctance as the arrival of our children grew more imminent.
When I went on bedrest we decided to send her to be trained on a nearby farm for a while. It was a great decision! However, once she returned it became clear she needed lots of attention and wanted to be 'worked' as a bird dog. Her punishment for lack of attention is digging and destruction.
My hubby loves spending this time with her...and my children love watching them show off her tricks.
The back edge of our property line collects a lot of runoff water after heavy rains. These are Haley's favorite afternoons.
I took these several days ago as my man and his dog enjoyed some quality time.
Thankfully, at 4 1/2 she is finally mellowing out a great deal. She and I are buddies again. But my children have already been warned: There will never be another puppy around these parts again!
We were married in his final year of residency in Atlanta. We knew we would be moving to Virginia for a year of advanced training, so the purchase of "the lab" was delayed. In Charlottesville we lived in an apartment that did not allow pets without a hefty rate increase, so the dog purchase was postponed again. But, we spent that year researching exactly which breeder, what color and what gender lab we would be adopting.As soon as we made the decision to move to our current city, we placed the deposit down on our girl. We were in the throes of our infertility diagnosis--and feeling quite maternal and paternal. The day we picked Haley up we were giggling and elated. I have entire videos of us doting on her. The next month we discovered we were expecting! A month after that we discovered it was triplets. Poor Haley. Her time in the spotlight was so very short-lived.
Because my hubby's hours are quite extensive, I was the primary caregiver for our girl. As my belly grew bigger and my exhaustion became overwhelming her antics began to wear on me. As if housebreaking her wasn't enough of a challenge, she was a digger, a chewer and an escape artist. Her favorite trick was to run next door to our neighbor's garage. They always left their garage door open about 2 feet off the ground so their dogs could come and go to their kennels. I could see the glimmer of glee in Haley's sweet puppy eyes as I (and my big tummy) would climb under that garage door at 7am each morning to retrieve her. Did I mention I was generally dressed professionally in work clothes as I attempted this maneuver? My excitement about Haley started to turn to reluctance as the arrival of our children grew more imminent.
When I went on bedrest we decided to send her to be trained on a nearby farm for a while. It was a great decision! However, once she returned it became clear she needed lots of attention and wanted to be 'worked' as a bird dog. Her punishment for lack of attention is digging and destruction.
My hubby loves spending this time with her...and my children love watching them show off her tricks.
The back edge of our property line collects a lot of runoff water after heavy rains. These are Haley's favorite afternoons.
I took these several days ago as my man and his dog enjoyed some quality time.
Thankfully, at 4 1/2 she is finally mellowing out a great deal. She and I are buddies again. But my children have already been warned: There will never be another puppy around these parts again!
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Old Dogs and Brave Love
In the first year of our marriage, Ryland & I lived in a little apartment in Virginia. We knew we were only there for a year of training, so our time was spent dreaming and planning our future. Purchasing a home with a yard and getting a dog were top priorities.
We obsessed over the adoption of our chocolate lab, Haley, as eager new parents. When she arrived 8 weeks after we settled into our home, we received her with great joy. As our first 'baby,' we doted on her to no end. It makes me giggle to think of the videos we made and photos we took of her antics.
Within six weeks of receiving her into our family, we discovered I was pregnant. Contemplating all the ways life was about to change for us, my ever-practical, realist husband observed, "The average lab lives 12 years, that means our kids will be around 11 when she dies. It's going to absolutely break their hearts."
At the time I had 1,000 other fears and concerns about having triplets, many of which seemed more pressing. In the years since, as I have watched the pure, unadulterated love between our family and this dog I have heard Ryland's words echo in my heart. "When she dies, it is absolutely going to break their hearts."
The words poke at the temptation in all parents to protect our children from hurtful things. (And, honestly, my own heart as I spend the most time with her each day.) But what if inevitably painful things are also gifts in the meantime?
As Haley ages, her personality becomes even sweeter and more endearing. We understand each other in the rhythm of daily life. She's an ever faithful friend--Sorry to see you go and delighted to see you return.
Her face is a distinguished grey. Her kind deep brown eyes are beginning to cloud. Her run is a bit more of a bounce. But her wagging tail and happy grunts show that there is still a great deal of spirit in those bones!
Although she is healthy and happy now, at 11 1/2 years old she is not going to be around more than a couple additional years. Our whole family knows were are on the backstretch of life with her. I am mindful every time one of my people pauses to rub her or we sit and talk adoringly about what a good dog she is we are deepening our bond with her.
Our love for her is bittersweet. We know we aren't promised forever with her, but we continue to love her more every day right here in the present. Despite the loss and heartbreak her passing will certainly bring to us eventually, we are grateful for the gift of her now. The knowledge that the future is ticking has actually made us love her more rather than less.
Inevitable heartbreak: This is the risk of love, of friendship , of investment in anything in this temporal world. It is all passing.
It would be absurd to try to stop my family's bonding with Haley in order to protect their hearts from her future loss. I suppose we could have re-homed her years ago when the reality of our potential heartbreak was first contemplated---but, oh, what we would have missed. We are all richer for the love of this dog.
When I spend time with her lately, the reminder seems to seep into so many other facets of my life.
This is a scary world, fraught with pitfalls and obstacles--arrows that take aim at our hearts. It can be tempting to try and isolate ourselves from loss, hurt, difficulty, risk...but attempts to do so are in vain. Efforts to keep the pain out, keep deep love at bay too.
This is real life, not a fairy tale. Hearts can't be locked away in impenetrable towers. Hurt, loss, disappointment are an unavoidable part of the deal...but so is love, laughter, compassion, warm memories and countless other positive emotions when we open ourselves up to give and receive. I think it is a worthy trade that teaches us much about life, not just dogs.
Let us love courageously.
We obsessed over the adoption of our chocolate lab, Haley, as eager new parents. When she arrived 8 weeks after we settled into our home, we received her with great joy. As our first 'baby,' we doted on her to no end. It makes me giggle to think of the videos we made and photos we took of her antics.
Within six weeks of receiving her into our family, we discovered I was pregnant. Contemplating all the ways life was about to change for us, my ever-practical, realist husband observed, "The average lab lives 12 years, that means our kids will be around 11 when she dies. It's going to absolutely break their hearts."
At the time I had 1,000 other fears and concerns about having triplets, many of which seemed more pressing. In the years since, as I have watched the pure, unadulterated love between our family and this dog I have heard Ryland's words echo in my heart. "When she dies, it is absolutely going to break their hearts."
The words poke at the temptation in all parents to protect our children from hurtful things. (And, honestly, my own heart as I spend the most time with her each day.) But what if inevitably painful things are also gifts in the meantime?As Haley ages, her personality becomes even sweeter and more endearing. We understand each other in the rhythm of daily life. She's an ever faithful friend--Sorry to see you go and delighted to see you return.
Her face is a distinguished grey. Her kind deep brown eyes are beginning to cloud. Her run is a bit more of a bounce. But her wagging tail and happy grunts show that there is still a great deal of spirit in those bones!
Although she is healthy and happy now, at 11 1/2 years old she is not going to be around more than a couple additional years. Our whole family knows were are on the backstretch of life with her. I am mindful every time one of my people pauses to rub her or we sit and talk adoringly about what a good dog she is we are deepening our bond with her.
Our love for her is bittersweet. We know we aren't promised forever with her, but we continue to love her more every day right here in the present. Despite the loss and heartbreak her passing will certainly bring to us eventually, we are grateful for the gift of her now. The knowledge that the future is ticking has actually made us love her more rather than less.Inevitable heartbreak: This is the risk of love, of friendship , of investment in anything in this temporal world. It is all passing.
It would be absurd to try to stop my family's bonding with Haley in order to protect their hearts from her future loss. I suppose we could have re-homed her years ago when the reality of our potential heartbreak was first contemplated---but, oh, what we would have missed. We are all richer for the love of this dog.
This is a scary world, fraught with pitfalls and obstacles--arrows that take aim at our hearts. It can be tempting to try and isolate ourselves from loss, hurt, difficulty, risk...but attempts to do so are in vain. Efforts to keep the pain out, keep deep love at bay too.
This is real life, not a fairy tale. Hearts can't be locked away in impenetrable towers. Hurt, loss, disappointment are an unavoidable part of the deal...but so is love, laughter, compassion, warm memories and countless other positive emotions when we open ourselves up to give and receive. I think it is a worthy trade that teaches us much about life, not just dogs.
Let us love courageously.
Saturday, September 08, 2012
Puppy Love
Our sweet lab, Haley, has been an amazing dog for our family. We got her one month before we conceived K, P, & R. Her puppy years were sort of a fog between the shock of triplet pregnancy, months of bedrest and three newborns. She spent her fair share of time on a nearby farm getting more gun dog training than she will ever need while we got a handle on parenting human babies.
Despite our dicey start Haley has mellowed into a terrific companion and playmate. K & P are especially attached to her these days. In the early Summer K entered her in a Pet Trick competition. Last month P was convinced he had taught her to read.
Haley's always good for cuddling, fetch and assorted other activities-- even occasionally serving as an audience for magic tricks.
In celebration of her birthday last month, the kids decided what our old girl would really like is a puppy--"to play with while they are at school." My husband & I had been pondering it for a while, so their suggestion was the final push for our decision.
And although I have felt genuinely excited about adopting her, when I downloaded this picture I realized it might have snapped a small glimpse of my subconscious!
I have never had much of a poker face. :-)
Luckily, Sugar has a few weeks of training to go before we bring her home. This should give my head, heart, attitude and facial expressions a chance to get in sync!
Despite our dicey start Haley has mellowed into a terrific companion and playmate. K & P are especially attached to her these days. In the early Summer K entered her in a Pet Trick competition. Last month P was convinced he had taught her to read.
So, despite my claim that we would never have more pets than children, the count is about to be at 4:3 (2 cats, 2 dogs, 3 kids). This morning we met the newest member of our family, Sugar.
She is sweet as her name would indicate.
The children giggled
and grinned nonstop in her presence. (I wish there were a soundtrack to accompany these shots.)
This guy is quite fond of her too.
And although I have felt genuinely excited about adopting her, when I downloaded this picture I realized it might have snapped a small glimpse of my subconscious!
I have never had much of a poker face. :-)
Luckily, Sugar has a few weeks of training to go before we bring her home. This should give my head, heart, attitude and facial expressions a chance to get in sync!
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Goodbye to Haley
January 16
This morning I watched everyone in my family tell our 14 year old chocolate lab, Haley, goodbye. She completely lost use of her back legs the day before. She had to be carried for food, water and to urinate and defecate. Her tail was between her legs and her eyes begged for relief.
My husband spoiled her with delicious duck meat for breakfast. The kids hugged her and rubbed her ears. They knew I was taking her to the vet while they were at school and that the outlook was grim, but the hopefulness of youth still ruled their hearts.
I carried her to the car at 9:30 and drove with all the courage I could muster to the Vet. I called my husband (who was at work) for a last minute pep talk. As I carried her in from the car, our vet and one of his tech's was waiting to open the door and take her from me. We carried her back to an exam room and after placing her on the table, we all made the decision that it was her time.
My last mental picture of her is her sweet grey face with splotches of pink from my lipstick kisses.
The children knew I was taking her to the vet while they were at school--and that she might not come home. The reality still hit them hard.
As Parker mourned he said, "I knew her my whole life. I have known Haley as long as I have known you, Mom. She was always there for me when I was sad and now I have to go through this without her."
Lots of conversations about how there is no easy way to do a hard thing and love is worth it.
But, ugh.
This morning I watched everyone in my family tell our 14 year old chocolate lab, Haley, goodbye. She completely lost use of her back legs the day before. She had to be carried for food, water and to urinate and defecate. Her tail was between her legs and her eyes begged for relief.
My husband spoiled her with delicious duck meat for breakfast. The kids hugged her and rubbed her ears. They knew I was taking her to the vet while they were at school and that the outlook was grim, but the hopefulness of youth still ruled their hearts.
I carried her to the car at 9:30 and drove with all the courage I could muster to the Vet. I called my husband (who was at work) for a last minute pep talk. As I carried her in from the car, our vet and one of his tech's was waiting to open the door and take her from me. We carried her back to an exam room and after placing her on the table, we all made the decision that it was her time.
My last mental picture of her is her sweet grey face with splotches of pink from my lipstick kisses.
The children knew I was taking her to the vet while they were at school--and that she might not come home. The reality still hit them hard.
As Parker mourned he said, "I knew her my whole life. I have known Haley as long as I have known you, Mom. She was always there for me when I was sad and now I have to go through this without her."
Lots of conversations about how there is no easy way to do a hard thing and love is worth it.
But, ugh.
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Puppy Talk
I promise it won't become all puppy all the time around here, but the first 24 hours deserve some documentation.
There's been a good deal of cleaning up Sugar's 'output' as we have started housebreaking/crate training. Between church and lunch today we stopped by the house to give her a potty break. We were too late. The mental image of my husband in a suit on his hands and knees in the driveway scrubbing the kennel while I tried to keep little poopy paws from jumping all over my church clothes...all to the delighted squeals of the children....well, that one will be with me for a while.
Because I can never resist a metaphor, it was a memorable little snapshot of the sin condition. We loved and cared for our little furball even though she was covered in smelly, foul mess. My husband--the physician, the deacon, in a nice suit--lowered himself to clean up a mess he didn't make. She was cleaned up and restored because of our love--and because of our knowledge that she wasn't intentionally making our lives a mess. She is just a puppy. It is her nature. That's what they do. She needs maturity, consistent teaching/modeling, patience and love. Sounds a lot like parenting...and the way God deals with His children too.
Sugar is good-natured and fairly low key for a lab. So far, while curious, the cats nor Haley seem very concerned about her arrival. I even caught her curled up next to Haley, both napping peacefully, late this afternoon.
Predictably, she has serenaded us nightly with a bit of crying from the kennel because she misses her 'pack.' Last night it led to K standing by my bedside at 4am asking me to please make the puppy be quiet. If only it were that easy. I have realized that I am old and tired. Potty trips in the chilly dead of night aren't my favorite.
I am loving how interested in taking care of her all three of my people have been--without any cajoling. I sometimes lament what our trio has missed by not ever getting to have a younger sibling in the home to care for. Having this new 'baby' has offered somewhat of a picture of those lessons. I love to sit one room away and listen to their giggles and the way they baby talk her.
And much like star-struck new parents, it has been hysterical to watch the kiddos think everything she does make her the smartest puppy in the world. Case in point, any time Sugar sits (not on command, mind you, just because she's tired) P & R go ballistic. "Mom, she is SO smart! She already has this whole sitting thing figured out!"
A few of my other favorite quotes so far:
"Mom, Sugar is rapidly licking me in the eyeball & I like it." -R
"I like how her tummy is like a warm chocolate chip cookie." -R
"Man, having a puppy is a lot of work!" -K
"I like each pet in our family for different reasons. Sugar's reason is just because she is little and cute." -K
"Mom & Dad, promise you will wake me up in the middle of the night to take her out? I really, really want to." -P
"This has been the best week ever. She's my favorite yellow lab in the world. I am so happy Sugar is in our family." -P
Like most things in 'real life' this endeavor is not clean or easy, but it is definitely sweet.
There's been a good deal of cleaning up Sugar's 'output' as we have started housebreaking/crate training. Between church and lunch today we stopped by the house to give her a potty break. We were too late. The mental image of my husband in a suit on his hands and knees in the driveway scrubbing the kennel while I tried to keep little poopy paws from jumping all over my church clothes...all to the delighted squeals of the children....well, that one will be with me for a while.
Because I can never resist a metaphor, it was a memorable little snapshot of the sin condition. We loved and cared for our little furball even though she was covered in smelly, foul mess. My husband--the physician, the deacon, in a nice suit--lowered himself to clean up a mess he didn't make. She was cleaned up and restored because of our love--and because of our knowledge that she wasn't intentionally making our lives a mess. She is just a puppy. It is her nature. That's what they do. She needs maturity, consistent teaching/modeling, patience and love. Sounds a lot like parenting...and the way God deals with His children too.
Sugar is good-natured and fairly low key for a lab. So far, while curious, the cats nor Haley seem very concerned about her arrival. I even caught her curled up next to Haley, both napping peacefully, late this afternoon.
Predictably, she has serenaded us nightly with a bit of crying from the kennel because she misses her 'pack.' Last night it led to K standing by my bedside at 4am asking me to please make the puppy be quiet. If only it were that easy. I have realized that I am old and tired. Potty trips in the chilly dead of night aren't my favorite.
I am loving how interested in taking care of her all three of my people have been--without any cajoling. I sometimes lament what our trio has missed by not ever getting to have a younger sibling in the home to care for. Having this new 'baby' has offered somewhat of a picture of those lessons. I love to sit one room away and listen to their giggles and the way they baby talk her.
And much like star-struck new parents, it has been hysterical to watch the kiddos think everything she does make her the smartest puppy in the world. Case in point, any time Sugar sits (not on command, mind you, just because she's tired) P & R go ballistic. "Mom, she is SO smart! She already has this whole sitting thing figured out!"
A few of my other favorite quotes so far:
"Mom, Sugar is rapidly licking me in the eyeball & I like it." -R
"I like how her tummy is like a warm chocolate chip cookie." -R
"Man, having a puppy is a lot of work!" -K
"I like each pet in our family for different reasons. Sugar's reason is just because she is little and cute." -K
"Mom & Dad, promise you will wake me up in the middle of the night to take her out? I really, really want to." -P
"This has been the best week ever. She's my favorite yellow lab in the world. I am so happy Sugar is in our family." -P
Like most things in 'real life' this endeavor is not clean or easy, but it is definitely sweet.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Puppy Parenting
The last 48 hours have been consumed with becoming reoriented with the role of puppy parent. In many ways this go-round is much more enjoyable than the last time.
When we got Haley 6 1/5 years ago, she was our 'first child.' We researched labs for months. We handpicked her parents from a breeder several states away. We waited months for her to be conceived, then months more for her to be whelped. We requested her based on her lineage, temperament and gender. She arrived via the cargo hold at the Atlanta Airport and my husband and I were giddy as we waited for her to be brought out. She was planned, purchased and joyfully anticipated.
Within a month of her arrival I conceived the triplets. (Those nurturing instincts must have jump started my womb!) Because I went on bed rest at 23 weeks, Haley's days as 'our baby' were short-lived. Nevertheless, I have hours of videotape of her and precious pictures of our joyful faces as we reveled in a degree of first time parenthood with her.
Fast forward to this week...the newest canine to join our family came about in a much different way. Within a minute and a half of discovering that our cat, Oreo, had been killed I impulsively offered the children a trip to the pound. It wasn't my desire to replace her as much as my desire to replace our children's sadness with joy.
We went in for a kitten and left with an energetic puppy. Unlike our previous experience acquiring a dog, this was a spontaneously rescued puppy of unknown heritage. Yet, the joy in our family matched that my husband and I experienced that Fall night in 2003--only this time it was accompanied by a chorus of 5 year old giggles and squeals.
We were so unprepared this time that we had to hastily stop at WalMart on our way home from the pound to pick up food, a crate, toys and a collar. Bandit was certainly not planned for or anticipated. Bandit is, however, already dearly loved.
The squeals, smiles and giggles haven't yet subsided. This is a GREAT age to adopt a puppy. The children are really into the whole experience--including watching a video on how to train and care for our little furball.
Our unplanned Bandit has been such a gift to our family already. Yes, it requires some adjustment to our schedule. I am in full crate training mode. But much like a 5th child, I am enjoying things more. I have a different perspective on things I was previously neurotic about, only to discover their lack of importance. My uterus is doing back flips over having something small and cuddly to nurture...especially during the day when my house is a wee bit too quiet.
And my R, Mr. Responsibility, is absolutely reveling in helping me look after Bandit. His attitude seems gentler and kinder. Bandit seems to be meeting a need I didn't quite know how to put my finger on in him. K enjoys inventing new games for the puppy and P cannot wait to start teaching Bandit tricks.
Bandit's biggest surprise for our family came to light today during our visit to the veteranarian. It seems HE is actually a SHE. It seems painfully obvious now that the children have grown comfortable carrying HER around like this...
In my defense, the pound told me she was a boy and I just never went back to examine her nether regions. She is fluffy and low to the ground--and I respect others' privacy. :-)
We have contemplated a name change: Bandita, Bonnie (a la Bonnie & Clyde)...but I think Bandit is going to stick! Her name will always serve as a reminder of the delight of letting go and the joy of surprises.
When we got Haley 6 1/5 years ago, she was our 'first child.' We researched labs for months. We handpicked her parents from a breeder several states away. We waited months for her to be conceived, then months more for her to be whelped. We requested her based on her lineage, temperament and gender. She arrived via the cargo hold at the Atlanta Airport and my husband and I were giddy as we waited for her to be brought out. She was planned, purchased and joyfully anticipated.
Within a month of her arrival I conceived the triplets. (Those nurturing instincts must have jump started my womb!) Because I went on bed rest at 23 weeks, Haley's days as 'our baby' were short-lived. Nevertheless, I have hours of videotape of her and precious pictures of our joyful faces as we reveled in a degree of first time parenthood with her.
Fast forward to this week...the newest canine to join our family came about in a much different way. Within a minute and a half of discovering that our cat, Oreo, had been killed I impulsively offered the children a trip to the pound. It wasn't my desire to replace her as much as my desire to replace our children's sadness with joy.
We went in for a kitten and left with an energetic puppy. Unlike our previous experience acquiring a dog, this was a spontaneously rescued puppy of unknown heritage. Yet, the joy in our family matched that my husband and I experienced that Fall night in 2003--only this time it was accompanied by a chorus of 5 year old giggles and squeals.
We were so unprepared this time that we had to hastily stop at WalMart on our way home from the pound to pick up food, a crate, toys and a collar. Bandit was certainly not planned for or anticipated. Bandit is, however, already dearly loved.
The squeals, smiles and giggles haven't yet subsided. This is a GREAT age to adopt a puppy. The children are really into the whole experience--including watching a video on how to train and care for our little furball.
Our unplanned Bandit has been such a gift to our family already. Yes, it requires some adjustment to our schedule. I am in full crate training mode. But much like a 5th child, I am enjoying things more. I have a different perspective on things I was previously neurotic about, only to discover their lack of importance. My uterus is doing back flips over having something small and cuddly to nurture...especially during the day when my house is a wee bit too quiet.
And my R, Mr. Responsibility, is absolutely reveling in helping me look after Bandit. His attitude seems gentler and kinder. Bandit seems to be meeting a need I didn't quite know how to put my finger on in him. K enjoys inventing new games for the puppy and P cannot wait to start teaching Bandit tricks.Bandit's biggest surprise for our family came to light today during our visit to the veteranarian. It seems HE is actually a SHE. It seems painfully obvious now that the children have grown comfortable carrying HER around like this...
In my defense, the pound told me she was a boy and I just never went back to examine her nether regions. She is fluffy and low to the ground--and I respect others' privacy. :-)
We have contemplated a name change: Bandita, Bonnie (a la Bonnie & Clyde)...but I think Bandit is going to stick! Her name will always serve as a reminder of the delight of letting go and the joy of surprises.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Laugh at the Days to Come
Periodically people ask how I manage to get all three of my wild ones in a picture, facing the camera and smiling. I have shared a couple of my tricks in the past (playing Simon Says, telling them someone is in my lens winking at them, bribes and/or idle threats ;-). 
But today I discovered the greatest trick of all. Look at the pure joy and real laughter.
How on Earth did I accomplish capturing these expressions early this morning before our last day of school? Well, here's the secret: Our dog, Haley, walked up behind me and let out a really loud, random YAWN. My children thought it was hysterical.
The new question is how to teach Haley to do that on command.Today was our last day of preschool--EVER. We have enrolled the children in Montessori for the Fall. This will be a whole new adventure for us, which intimidates me. We have absolutely adored their sweet church preschool, but my husband and I are more convinced than ever that it is the right thing. They will each be in their own class--and they will be going 5 days a week.
My job over the next three months is to soak them up--and I am looking quite forward to it!
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Haley
Our lab, Haley, doesn't seem to enjoy the "treat" of coming indoors nearly as much as she used to. Today, I realized why she might prefer the solitude of the outdoors...even during a Winter drizzle. 
Friday, April 04, 2008
A Refreshing Change of Plans
Tuesday the children and I rushed home from preschool to quickly change and get to the YMCA for our first swim lesson of 2008. We had 45 minutes from the time preschool was dismissed to get home change into swimsuits and get to the Y pool. Two of our buddies came over since our house is close to both the preschool and the YMCA. Somehow, their Mommy & I managed to get everyone changed, loaded, fed snacks and transported so efficiently that we were early...one week and 5 minutes early, in fact! The irony of the fact that it was April Fool's Day was not lost on us.
M, K & R thoroughly enjoyed themselves! 
P & S were not so sure about the water.
Thankfully, our drought-induced water ban has been lifted and it was a warm 80 degrees, so we decided to take advantage of the swimsuits and return to our house for a little water hose fun.
M, K & R thoroughly enjoyed themselves! P & S were not so sure about the water.
I think S's face speaks volumes. Then, S came up with an idea that allowed her to safely enter the wet zone...
And as for our lab, Haley...she seems to finally be mellowing out a bit. 
Or is it just that the children are so active she pales in comparison?
Thursday, January 01, 2009
The Cutie Bowl
We are on our way to
New Orleans to cheer on the Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl tomorrow, but nothing can beat the precious football game my boys had in our front yard Tuesday afternoon.
P finally got his Alabama uniform, so it was time for a little head to head competition for the brothers.
My boys getting fired up for the game. (I love that they have chosen to cheer for different teams. Can I say again how GREAT separate classes have been for them!)
Thankfully, P loves being chased and tackled because R does not. Whenever R would have the ball and P would get within striking range he would spike the ball and shout, "TOUCHDOWN! No tackling me!"
I love those grins!
Looks like P is going down.
I got him! But where did that ball go?
Looks like there was an extra player on the field. Who can blame Haley dog? They were having so much fun!
Here's hoping the Bama game is half as entertaining as this one was!
New Orleans to cheer on the Crimson Tide in the Sugar Bowl tomorrow, but nothing can beat the precious football game my boys had in our front yard Tuesday afternoon.
P finally got his Alabama uniform, so it was time for a little head to head competition for the brothers.
My boys getting fired up for the game. (I love that they have chosen to cheer for different teams. Can I say again how GREAT separate classes have been for them!)
Thankfully, P loves being chased and tackled because R does not. Whenever R would have the ball and P would get within striking range he would spike the ball and shout, "TOUCHDOWN! No tackling me!"
I love those grins!
Looks like P is going down.
I got him! But where did that ball go?
Looks like there was an extra player on the field. Who can blame Haley dog? They were having so much fun!
Here's hoping the Bama game is half as entertaining as this one was!Saturday, September 05, 2009
Labor Day Weekend
In the true spirit of Labor Day, my beloved friend L delivered a baby girl early this morning. We are all thrilled to have another Mayfield to love!
My husband has also been laboring away this weekend. He is the trauma surgeon on call Friday-Tuesday morning. He went in to work at 1:30 this morning and returned around lunch time today. While he napped, my parents and I attempted to keep the children quiet (which meant going outside).
My Mom and Dad were such good sports to assist me in cleaning out the garage. That is true love...driving 5 1/2hours round trip to clean your adult daughter's filthy garage!
While we swept and de-spidered, the children were assigned to rinse out the dog kennel. I heard lots of giggling, but didn't investigate much--I needed to maximize my window of opportunity for trashing cheap and broken plastic toys. When I heard them calling the dog, I looked over to find the source of their laughter.
It seems they had created a doggie bubble bath for Haley--inside her kennel. They were so proud, but she was not really interested.
We are all about putting the LABOR back in Labor Day around here. Well, except for P. He was off enjoying a little leisure. That is much more his speed. He loves life and enjoys it to the full--with the exception of work. While K & R are thrilled to be helpers, P is just not interested. Unfortunately, even rewards don't help much. He is not wired to be very competitive, so he even sees right through attempts to turn it into a game.
He has so many other fantastic qualities as a Type B personality. I don't necessarily want to 'change his stripes,' but I do believe in the value of learning to work with all your heart. Do any of you have experience with children who do not have work ethic as a gift? I am wondering if that is something you can teach.
My husband has also been laboring away this weekend. He is the trauma surgeon on call Friday-Tuesday morning. He went in to work at 1:30 this morning and returned around lunch time today. While he napped, my parents and I attempted to keep the children quiet (which meant going outside).
My Mom and Dad were such good sports to assist me in cleaning out the garage. That is true love...driving 5 1/2hours round trip to clean your adult daughter's filthy garage!
While we swept and de-spidered, the children were assigned to rinse out the dog kennel. I heard lots of giggling, but didn't investigate much--I needed to maximize my window of opportunity for trashing cheap and broken plastic toys. When I heard them calling the dog, I looked over to find the source of their laughter.
It seems they had created a doggie bubble bath for Haley--inside her kennel. They were so proud, but she was not really interested.
We are all about putting the LABOR back in Labor Day around here. Well, except for P. He was off enjoying a little leisure. That is much more his speed. He loves life and enjoys it to the full--with the exception of work. While K & R are thrilled to be helpers, P is just not interested. Unfortunately, even rewards don't help much. He is not wired to be very competitive, so he even sees right through attempts to turn it into a game.He has so many other fantastic qualities as a Type B personality. I don't necessarily want to 'change his stripes,' but I do believe in the value of learning to work with all your heart. Do any of you have experience with children who do not have work ethic as a gift? I am wondering if that is something you can teach.
Friday, May 30, 2014
An Arbitrary Recap of Pieces of May
Life in a family accelerates to warp speed in the month of May. As a result, all kinds of things happened that never rose to the level of having their own blog post. Since this is my children's only semblance of a scrapbook, please pardon me while I recap a few things:
1. My R, who is showing a lot of interest in music these days, performed in a cello concert earlier this month without removing his camo sunglasses. We were indoors in a gorgeous chapel. He was out of my reach and never chose to make eye contact...so I watched in wonder. Strong willed little future rock star?
She's so comfortable in front of the camera, it is interesting to watch her transition to behind it. :-)
3. P is blossoming into a much more confident (and active) fella--and it is fun to watch. His introversion and sedentary nature is still dominant--it is the way he's wired. But I am happy to see him showing more interest in being outdoors some as well.
5. Having 20 boys over for a Nerf birthday party in our backyard was epic...but at 5'2" I had ZERO control or voice. Many of these 9-10 year old boys are my height already--and they definitely are louder! Daddy took over leading the games and it was a testosterone fest to be long remembered!
6. Our 'girl party,' a photo scavenger hunt downtown, was also an active, memorable hit.
And there you have it, a totally random wrap up of loose ends--a pretty accurate depiction of my Summer brain!
1. My R, who is showing a lot of interest in music these days, performed in a cello concert earlier this month without removing his camo sunglasses. We were indoors in a gorgeous chapel. He was out of my reach and never chose to make eye contact...so I watched in wonder. Strong willed little future rock star?
2. My K is showing interest (and talent) in photography. She borrowed my camera for a bit recently and returned with several cool shots--including this one of our sweet Haley dog.
She's so comfortable in front of the camera, it is interesting to watch her transition to behind it. :-)
3. P is blossoming into a much more confident (and active) fella--and it is fun to watch. His introversion and sedentary nature is still dominant--it is the way he's wired. But I am happy to see him showing more interest in being outdoors some as well.
Dropping him off at sleepaway camp for NINE DAYS was a source of anxious anticipation for me for months but he truly seemed to show signs of readiness right before my very eyes in the 7-10 days before he left. There is SO much to be said for leaving room for our children to rise to the occasion.
It was a true answer to prayer for this Mama (and his Daddy too.)
4. These two really are pea and carrots. So sweet!
I can't help but think they will marry people with personalities that mirror each other. Only time will tell.
5. Having 20 boys over for a Nerf birthday party in our backyard was epic...but at 5'2" I had ZERO control or voice. Many of these 9-10 year old boys are my height already--and they definitely are louder! Daddy took over leading the games and it was a testosterone fest to be long remembered!
6. Our 'girl party,' a photo scavenger hunt downtown, was also an active, memorable hit.
The greatest souvenir for us, were some hilarious pictures of K's friends being their silly, sweet selves.
7. iphones don't fare well in washing machines..especially when they go through the spin cycle.
And there you have it, a totally random wrap up of loose ends--a pretty accurate depiction of my Summer brain!
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