Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Busy Birthday Week

This was a busy week of birthdays for our family.

First, we enjoyed a visit from Patrick's parents to celebrate his mom's birthday. The kids loved having them here. They had a chance to show off everything they've been learning and enjoyed some good cuddle time. We ended the visit with a great birthday dinner for Grandma. It was short but sweet. It's times like these that really make us want to move back home. Here are some photos after our dinner:











Next, Patrick and Moe shared a birthday this past Monday. Patrick turned 28 and Moe is now 5 years old. Time flies, huh? When we went to the kennel to adopt Moe, Patrick picked the craziest one who was jumping and biting all the others and the one who escaped. He had so much personality that we couldn't resist. So we took him home. Five years later, he is the same. He's still a hyper, crazy escape artist.

As a result of his frequent runaway escapades (and other things), we decided to give him away to family. Patrick's parents were going to take him but we didn't prepare in advance for a flight to MI. Patrick's brother, Paul, who lives 10 minutes away said he'd take Moe--at least for a trial period.

In the 2 days he's been gone, Aliza has hardly mentioned his name. In fact, I've been the one with withdrawals. I miss having him run around like his crazy self after balls. I miss seeing Aliza laugh hysterically at him. I miss dropping some food on the floor and being okay because I know he'll eat it. And when he's not being stinky, it was nice having him to cuddle and keep me warm. It's easy to miss him but when I focus on why we let him go, I start to feel better again.

He will be happier not getting beat up by Aliza. Ryan won't constantly be attacked with slobbery kisses that he hates. I won't have to chase him around the neighborhood as he poops in other yards or messes up their flower bed. I don't have to deal with him waking up Aliza for barking at all the people walking by. No more waking up to irritating sounds of snoring or him cleaning himself. No more little dog bum scooting on our floor in circles when he gets excited. (yes, just like the commercial and yes, we've taken him in and it never stops)

Let me just add that we learned to live with some of his annoying habits but it wasn't until we moved back to WA that he started escaping and scooting his bum. He isn't happy with us anymore. He's comfortable but not happy. He doesn't like sharing his attention with the kids. He'll be happier with his Uncle and maybe eventually his grandparents. Undivided attention is what he needs and they can give it to him.



Happy 28th Birthday, Patrick!



Moe eating a piece of birthday cake




Saying bye to Moe after his party as he leaves with Uncle Paul

No comments: