"Doogs"

We were not at all sure how our dogs would react to a new baby when we found out we were having Jax. Hannah had just turned 1 year old when Jackie was born. We weren't sure if Lucy was too old to be patient with a baby. We took Hannah to training to try to "calm" her (which ultimately failed) and we sort of just hoped everything would work out. The dogs were immensely curious and unfortunately had to take a back burner for awhile while we figured out the whole "baby" thing.

Soon Jackie became as curious of them as they were of her. Although, I suppose at this point they were less curious and more cautious! Well, Lou at least.

Jackie never showed fear of Hannah's physical body, despite Hannah's monstrous size compared to Jackie's little peanut self. Occasionally, a loud bark would startle her, but that's about it.

Jax steals toys from the doggies and the dogs would steal toys from Jackie. We recently taught Jackie how to play fetch with Hannah.

This is Jackie back in April- Hannah is like a horse compared to her!



The water bowl serves as a regular form of entertainment....







And there is nothing better to nap next to than a big soft golden...



When the dogs play-fight, Jackie sometimes feels left out and tries to join in by yelling and laughing at them.

One of Jackie's very first words was "Hannah"- pronounced "Nah-nah" at the time (the first time she said it she was handing Hannie one of her bones). And "doog" came shortly thereafter. She loves pointing out dogs on walks and in books. In our photo album, she is constantly searching for pictures of Hannah and Lucy- and when she sees one, a huge smile spreads across her face and she says, "La-la" or "Loooouuuiee," contentedly. When we leave her room to get in the bath or go to our bedroom, she passes the dogs in the hallway, pats each of them and nonchalantly states, "Hi La-la! Hi Louiiie." Right now Hannie has a hot spot and Jax is very concerned about Hannie's "Boo-boo."

We are always careful to supervise the interactions between Jackie and her sisters, Lucy and Hannah (as much for the safety of the dogs as for Jackie). Jackie gets frustrated with Hannie always being up in her grill at times and will occasionally hit Hannie and then gets a time out. We have a strict "No hitting doggies" rule. The dogs are certainly a lot of work, but they are absolutely an integral part of the family. I can't imagine life without the excitement, love and coziness that they bring. Before we leave for vacation, we drop them off at the vet the night before. Our house is then quiet and empty: there is no dog to walk, no dog to feed or demanding water, no dog to watch TV with on the couch or to kiss or pet or to bring you the remote control when you are in the kitchen trying to cook dinner. Life is undeniably easier, but it is much more lonely and I feel a definite void. We are blessed to have Hannah and Lucy in our lives.