My How Time Flies

know most people only say what I'm going to say today about their children. For now, my dogs are my children. Anyhow, I just can't believe how big Smoltz is these days. He won't be 2 until April, but I came across these pictures today and I just couldn't believe how small he used to be. He has really grown up so fast. It's hard to see him so independent too. I can still remember the days I'd leave for work and he'd hide under the bed so I wouldn't put him outside. Now he can't wait to go outside!

Sometimes I question whether or not I neglect Smoltz and Achilles too much and it makes me feel terrible. Maybelle, our puppy, is a lot younger and she needs a little more attention right now. Plus she is the only girl! I just wonder if my boys notice how much extra attention she's getting right now. Do dogs get jealous? I hope not. Smoltz and Achilles each have very special places in my heart.

Drew got Achilles maybe 2 months after we started dating, so he is as old as our relationship and I feel like we've been through a lot together. He is my "first-born" if you will. He's the first dog I've really ever helped raised, even though he technically is Drew's dog. He makes me feel safe and I really enjoy talking to him and getting the sense that he really does know what I'm saying... really.

Smoltz, the first dog I've ever raised on my own, came into my life during a time that I needed something to love and take care of. I was definitely going through a hard time mentally and emotionally about 2 years ago. Smoltz brought me out of that. I learned a lot about myself by raising him. I learned that I can take care of and be responsible for another life. And I loved it. He has brought so much joy into my life. He is always ready to love and give kisses too.

Maybelle has brought a lot of happiness too, along with a funny little personality. She is a different dog, different than the other two to the point that she serves a different purpose in my life. She's very calm and really does like to just chill with her mommy, while the boys are very hyper and love to play outside. I can let her walk outside with me or sit out in the front yard while I plant flowers. Rarely does she run off too far unlike the boys. She also is very good inside. She's just a dog that I need sometimes when I need a companion but am too tired to move around and play. She's a great girl dog.

Basically, all three of my dogs mean something different to me. They each fill a different part of my heart... a different need in my soul. Achilles offers me loyalty, companionship and protection. Smoltz gives soooo much unconditional love. He is always ready to love and be affection... a lot like his mommy. Maybelle gives me that warm fuzzy feeling. She is just too cute for words... and she also needs me too which makes me feel so motherly... a need I've been wanting to feel for a while! Hopefully, that'll happen sooner than later... but with a real baby!

I think tonight, I am going to go home and snuggle with all three of my dogs... but I am starting with Smoltzee first.