This past weekend as I was sitting with John and Kylie enjoying our evenings on our deck in front of our cheminia, I realized something magical had happened over the summer.
My bond with Kylie became stronger and deeper. Without Frankie with us now, I’ve been able to devote my full attention to Kylie. I feel like I can see a change in her because of this. She seems to want to be with us more, even though she is still quite the independent dog. But she does seem to relish in the extra attention.
I used to feel bad that Frankie got so much more attention because of the extra needs she required, but as I’ve moved through the summer without Frankie, and took more time with Kylie, I know now I was never a bad dog mom. Kylie is Kylie. She loves her independence and I’ve always tried to respect that and admire her for that. But I’ve also seen her come around to hanging out with John and I more– wanting to be near us, and wanting to be pet even more than before.
It’s a good feeling. I’ve promised Kylie that when a new dachshund joins the household, which have no fear, one will, I promise to give her the undivided attention she needs too, and when it is right for her.
Gosh, I can imagine just like mom’s to children, of which I never had any, the same issues we face with our pets and mom’s with kids, trying to always give each of them what they need and when they need it. But when the bond grows deeper, as it has this summer with my Kylie girl, I must say my heart has felt a deep joy in connecting with her in a new way.
She’s been here for me this summer as I grieved the loss of Frankie- in her own sweet, independent, loving way, and I can’t thank her enough for that. Love you, Kylie girl.