Casey and Me

Who would have ever thought an Owen Wilson movie would make me want to be an overall better person and point out a few areas of improvement in my life? But we just saw Marley and Me and I walked away realizing a few important things: 1) our life – which is filled with many trails of marriage and parenting – may not be normal, but it is not uncommon, and 2) our life does include a dog – which we consciously choose almost seven years ago – so we need to start following through with that commitment, and stop acting like it was un-invited burden.

Poor Casey. She ran the show for almost four years and then immediately – but what probably seemed like out of nowhere to her – was low man on the totem pole. Things were still pretty good for her when Alex was first born as she got to go on walks, snuggle in bed and eat on a regular schedule because we quickly learned that two people can’t hold a baby or change a diaper at the same time. So we could divide and concur: baby or canine? But when we moved and Alex became mobile, our life elevated to a new level of disorganization. Then add one more child in the mix when Avery born in 2007 and Casey’s life was never the same. While Andy and I tried to keep up with feedings, bedtimes, vaccinations, daycare decisions and the growing curiosity, independence and defiance of emerging toddlerhood, her needs went un-noticed and un-acted upon.

But it is a new year and a chance for a fresh start. Alex and Avery are closer to being self-sufficient, and therefore lower maintenance, giving me less excuses and more time to ensure the water dish has water, outdoor play goes beyond five minutes and a scratch on the head happens every time Casey sits down in front of me. So I am adding one more resolution to my list – which already included reading more to my kids and eating more vegetables – and that is to be a better dog owner.

PS. This is a file photo of Casey and Alex from 2005. Guess I need a current one.