A Baby...I Mean Dog...Changes Everything

Bella has been part of our family for almost 6 months now. We absolutely LOVE her, but having a dog does change your day-to-day life. You no longer sleep in on weekends un-interrupted, you need to make sure someone is home in time to let her out (and more importantly spend time with her) and yes, even wake up at 3:30 to clean up after hearing her puke in the middle of the night.

But I wouldn't change that for anything. I love having her companionship, seeing how excited she gets over a bone, a walk or even just a sitting next to us. She makes me remember to slow down and to enjoy the simple things.

Now saying this...I love, love, love Bella but am no way ready for the next step...a baby. We've got another couple years to worry about that. But what I love about having Bella is seeing what an amazing dad Robert is going to make (some day)!

1. He is persistent on making sure Bella gets 2 walks a day = We'll have a healthy, happy baby.

2. He spent hours trying to find the perfect dog bed for Bella = He may actually enjoy baby shopping.

3. He just finished reading a book about how to provide a dog with what they need = When I'm freaking out about what to do with a baby, he'll be reading up too and will keep me sane through the process.

4. He is a GREAT hider and plays hide-n-seek with Bella a couple times a day = Our kids will be great at peek-a-boo and eventually, hide-n-seek...and will love playing with their dad.

5. Since it's dropped below 32 degrees, Robert hasn't asked me once to go out and pick up poop = Maybe he'll be a great diaper changer.

6. Has taught Bella how to sit, lay, heel and play catch = He'll be a great soccer/basketball/hockey coach one day.

7. He genuinely loves Bella (even after she eats his shoes, sneaks on to the couch, etc.) = Our kids will have a dad that loves them unconditionally.

8. Among our busy work/volunteer/social lives, he makes sure we take time for Bella = When I'm knee-deep, he will always help remind me that family comes first.

Now if only he wasn't so disgusted by her puke...