
My Dog is Sad
The kids have all returned home. The decorations have all
been taken down. The lights have been coiled up. And … this is where it gets
really bad … the Christmas cookies are almost gone!
The holidays are now behind us. And all that’s left to prove that they were here are some fond memories; those last few cookies on the kitchen
counter; and random sparkles of glitter that refuse to be silenced despite our
best cleaning efforts!
And … a sad dog.

Potter’s not missing the holidays, but he is missing the kids! He gets that way every time they leave. First, he spots the suitcases and he starts getting clingy. Then, as they are loading their cars, he gets even clingier and finally, when they leave…the moping sets in.
Poor guy!
Despite the doggie rehab we’re dealing with, having the kids home for the holidays was great. And, this was an extra special year for us. This was the first time all three really “returned” home for Christmas.
Does that make sense? It’s not like they haven’t always come back here for the holidays, but now that they’re older, and living in their own places, having them back home was more special than ever. Those of you with older children probably know what I’m talking about. I learned this year it’s just different, but in a proud and happy parent kind of way.
“Look ma…our kids are all growed-up!

