So Tired

Just about one year ago, I decided it was time for another dog in my life. It had been nearly two years since I lost my last dog, and I was feeling ready. After much debate and searching, I decided on a yellow lab. I envisioned a loyal companion, someone to accompany me on photo shoots and just outdoors in general. With an empty nest looming only a couple years away, I convinced myself it was a good idea to get a canine friend. It all seemed so ideal. (Are you getting visions of “Marley and Me” yet?)

Weedeater

A year later, I have to say that I didn’t get what I expected. What I got was a bounce-off-the-wall, jump-on-everyone-who-comes-to-the-door, chew-on-anything-that-fits-in-the-mouth, destroy-the-back-yard Tasmanian devil. And then there was the time I came home to find my daughter mopping up blood, which was all over the house. Luna had noticed a bug on the other side of the window and decided to go through the window to get it. Four hundred dollars in vet bills, and two weeks of wearing a protective cone, which transformed her head into a wrecking ball, followed. Having made it this far, and hoping that the worst is behind us, it’s time to reflect back on the “year of the dog.”

Even with all the trouble, stress, and extra expense she’s caused me, I’m still happy to have her in my life. Not only is she making progress at becoming a better dog, I’m making progress at becoming a better human. While I teach her about self-control, discipline, and manners, she teaches me about enthusiasm, joy, and living in the moment.

All About the Stick

And even though she hasn’t quite gotten the job requirements for “photographer’s assistant” figured out, she does occasionally model for me. She also makes me laugh every day. And maybe someday I will be able to take her with me and not worry about her knocking over the tripod. Then again, maybe not.

Lunatic