I've been a bit impulsive over the years, and at other times, it takes me weeks to make a simple decision. That's just how I'm wired, and someone once told me I think too much. I have found that the more I ruminate on the decision I'm trying to make, the less I understand myself, and the why's behind the hesitation. Therefore, when my dear Bonnie died, I knew I would need another dog to love as I love dogs and their constant companionship. Toni told me to get two," you need two," she said. "Two will keep each other company!" Other well-meaning friends told me I was crazy, as taking on two eight week old puppies would be enough to drive even the most stable among us insane. Others said to wait, morn, grieve and get over the tremendous loss of such a faithful companion. I however jumped, and was yes, impulsive! Here I am, four months later asking myself the simple question, "Was I Insane?!"
Now don't get me wrong, I love these little monsters. Anyone who follows me on Instagram will know, I'm crazy in love with these two boys. Hell, they even have their own Instagram page "The Adventures of Stuart and Toby." However, I must confess, I was crazy to take on these two terrorists at the same time. My house, my yard and my life has been in a four-month whirlwind of emotions since day one. The energy level is high here, from the time I wake them up at 7:00am until they go night night promptly at 10:00pm. My senses are always on high alert, and forget about trying to write, read or meditate. If I don't do that as soon as I get up, you can forget it.
The other day I heard some odd scratching, I was not on my game you see, I was mentally elsewhere. Most likely I was playing Words With Friends or Candy Crush. When I finally decided to investigate the source of this odd noise, I found a corner of the molding in my family room, gnawed down to the woodwork. Now, we have more chewie's in this house than in a small kennel. Toby The Termite decided the corner woodwork was better tasting than the chicken flavored chewie, he has so fondly placed under my dining room table. That corner is only the tip of the iceberg this guy has gnawed. My antique wood lamp table, my desk legs, oh let's not forget the kitchen cabinet, my hands, and please do not let me forget the wood pillars out on the patio... I had forgotten how "oral" Westies are. My Nicholas did the same thing. I remember, the branch of my lovely Camellia bush coming in my back door. I think my husband got a good laugh, and an I told you so out of that incident.
My garden is a mine field of great opportunities for diggers, and terriers love to dig! Last year I planted several peonies, one is now half dug up and leaves ripped from the roots. The small hydrangea from last year's planting, appeared on my lounge chair and let's not forget the lilac bush has lost a couple branches. My roses were temporarily in wire cages until the new wire fencing was finally installed around the entire yard. The grass is the only area where they're allowed. They can of course lay out on the lounge chairs as they provide a bird's eye view into the family room. More than once I've felt two pairs of eyes, peering in at me. They are nosey little terrorists and keep their eyes on me to see what's up or if the refrigerator door has opened! This is a 24/7 job for mom and relaxation is no longer on my radar. I am constantly on edge for what's next.
Now, they are very sweet, and the house training is actually going well for the most part. My boy Toby has got the gist of it, but Stuart... well let's just say he's forgetful. Stu has his good days and then there are the more challenging days. I continue to forget Scottie dogs are stubborn and Stu is stubborn. Let's just say, some days are better than others for both boys. Therefore, I continue to keep towels in strategic locations in my main living area, and they continue to be used.
Then there’s the climbing. Climbing has become a new art for Toby as he is lighter weight with longer legs. I have found him everywhere, investigating the top tier of the couches, on my mother cedar chest and yes, he's made it up to my bed when I'm not looking. My bedroom is my sacred space, so normally they are not allowed in there. They are sneaky you see, and the baby gate I have at bedroom doorway has been violated, more than once. I've even found my muscular, squatty, short legged Stuart, sitting on the bed and how he got up there is anyone's guess.
Eating is another matter. I'm going through puppy food faster than lightening. OMG these dudes can eat! Bonnie was a somewhat picky eater, not these two. They continue to be on puppy food as they are puppies. I have to lock them in the playpen with a frozen Kong, while I eat. As much as I've tried, there are not any boundaries when it comes to my meals. I must eat up at the bar now, not in my favorite chair. Food is simply their favorite thing.
With all this said however, I'm still glad I got two babies. Toni was right, two is the best option. When they poop out, they're adorable. Toby likes to snuggle on my lap and Stu loves the couch (lots of blankets are covering it). As I type, they're both napping in their respective stations in my office, snoring those sweet sounds and sometimes dream barks. I love these two dudes, they healed the heart break over Bonnie, and have helped me move forward to my new beginnings. Please remind me of this blog when I look at that corner molding and cry. Help me remember how much I love them and not look back but to look forward. They will grow up, I just know it...
My boy Stuart The Squatty Scottie
No comments:
Post a Comment