Merry Christmas 2012, a dog's point of view.

I've noticed alot of my pictures this year are with our dog or solo pics of our dog.  I have decided to put most of those on facebook so I don't use all my time to blog it here.  Fiona is just over a year old now.  She is now loved by all - even me!  It took me 6 months to get used to having this creature to take care of that requires more work than the time I care to spend on her.  However, with some patience and proper training I have learned to appreciate her and our time together.   Now, I can honestly say that she is a blessed bonus to our family.   Many days when I'm feeling lonely being in a house full of boys, she is good company.  She is always happy to have me around and she wants me to play with her.  Those days with my boys have pretty much disappeared.  It's very sad.  They don't seem to care if I'm here or not & they think I am boring.  

If anyone ever says having a dog isn't at all like taking care of a child they are wrong, & haven't experienced both!! In many ways it is exactly like caring for a child. You have to selflessly give of your time to do for someone else what they can not do for themselves. You can't just neglect their needs & feelings but you must be aware and care for them. Of course there are the obvious differences but, come on, many things are just the same!  Parenting takes time; it's not always enjoyable; you have to learn to love the work you do because this job provides alot of opportunities to practice patience, kindness, gentleness, etc..

For example, dogs are emotional animals, especially our female beagle.   When Fiona feels neglected and wants your attention she will get your attention in negative ways like peeing on the carpet or chewing & destroying things she knows she isn't suppose to touch- just to get your attention!! Doesn't that sound like a child you know? Funny, aren't people the same way?!! Don't we all want attention? Don't we all need love, someone's undivided attention? So, like a child or adult, we must give our loved ones attention & spend quality time with them because they need our time/ love. If their love tank is low & they don't get their needed attention then they are bad dogs! ;) Some are more needy than others & that's okay! Still, we all need love!

So, with that in mind- Merry Christmas! May we all reflect on the great love of our Savior and learn to give & receive love to others more fully & freely this year!   Happy New Year 2013!!





   




P.S.
I do enjoy the perk of crating my dog for 6 hours when I have to go to work or run errands.  You can't do that with a baby or little child!  ;)