Only 10 days into the new year and I am finally thinking that maybe, just maybe we are fitting into a very boring pattern, a schedule, a daily grind of the "same old stuff." After last year, that's what the pack craves, and, I think, needs.
I have always been an advocate of a strong foundation, and for my pack, I think "routine" will be the strong foundation, as it might for any pack of dogs. Once that routine is solid, then we can vary, expand and be creative.
Unfortunately, 2008 was very tumultuous both in number and in activity. It seemed like nothing ever went "normal." From January 1, we knew Winston was going to die. The anxiety that causes is tremendous. With that anxiety there was Kodie's eyes & his over-all health. Then add in two puppies.
So after March and the loss of both Winston and Kodie, we had grief, but were ready for an upswing. (Minus 2) Ready to sink into routine. Then bam...Gary. (Minus 1) I think we began to sink into a bit of a routine...until we added Tucker. (Plus 1) While it isn't a sad time, it is an adjustment to the routine, which makes it not routine. In late July we acquired Lotus and Merlin (two rescue kittens). While they aren't part of the pack, their presence does add to the un-normalcy. (Plus 2)
In early September I found out about the two likely purebred Aussies at the local shelter and, well--what could I do? (Plus 2) I had to add them to the mix. We place Amber just before Thanksgiving in a wonderful home where she reigns as queen. (Minus 1)
Then my mother's condition only added to the disorganization, and ultimately, after her battle with cancer, ended with Rose joining our pack. (Plus 1)
So we now have (in order of appearance) dogs: Olive, Ruby, Piper, Sophie, Dusty, Evelyn, Tucker and Rose. Cats: Lily, Daisy, Merlin and Lotus. And Be-Gone Ya (Begonia), who visits frequently. (Total: 12.5) There has been calm since November and finally, today, we did our first semi-group sit-stay. Hopefully we are settled for a while. No photos, yet.
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