Bad Advice

The Baby is moving into the fraternity house. I went to college; I've seen a few parties in my life.

Last night we spent some quality time together while the husband was messing with the music and packing for his trip. Most moms would reinforce the necessity to study, be responsible, keep your ethics, etc.

After I hugged him to death, told him how very proud I am and smothered him with kisses, I had this advice:

If a party gets out of control, jump out a window and run like the wind.
If you don't know what's in it, don't drink it.
If a girl passes out, don't have sex with her.
Don't wear a toga without a lot of safety pins and clean underwear.

I hope you realize this is our quirky sense of humor.

My gift was one statement. The baby said, "I think you've raised me better than that."

Dog Advice

I'm crazy about dogs. (The husband makes the same comment about me but he leaves off the "about dogs" portion.) I've lost count of how many dogs I've owned and loved. My current big, black dog is a maniac but she brings me great joy.

The baby was home from college last night and he commented that she's become much better behaved. Maybe it's the squirt bottle. Maybe it's because she's only 4 months away from her second birthday. Two-years old seems to be the magic age that Labs settle down a bit.

A friend sent me this. It's not new; you may have read it before but it bears repeating. I wish I could credit the author.

When your carpeting is tracked with mud or you're apologizing to the person who has just experienced a knock 'em down french kiss from your dog, remember this.

If a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle
them gently.

I would add a few more:

A stranger at the door probably needs to see your snarly face.
Someone brushing your hair or massaging your scalp feels good.
When you need attention, throw yourself on someone's lap.
Kissing is more fun with tongues.
A treat a day is mandatory.
If you talk/bark until you're hoarse, you've taken it too far.
Regardless of age, you should have toys.
Some dogs and some people need to be kept on a short leash.
Instincts are good. If you sense danger, you're probably right.
Food left on the counter is fair game.
Your own pillow provides comfort.
Your senses can keep you from peril and guide you to good things.
If you have someone to take care of you, you are luckier than most.

The Little Moments

Do you stop and appreciate the little moments? I'm not very good at it but I'm trying to get better.

When the baby says, "I brought the C to an A-, and I'm headed home."

When the daughter says, "I'm not really mad at you." It's code for "I love you and I miss you."

When someone asks you what you want for Christmas and you realize you want for nothing.

When you sit on the floor with the dog, exchanging kisses, and realize that other than the comfort of the husband's kisses, there is something magical about dog kisses.

When you open your mailbox to find wonderful cards from people sending holiday wishes.

When you walk through your home and look at the tree. (Merry Impersonal Christmas.)

When you look around, acknowledge the turmoil, aches and pains, and still find gratitude.

Don't worry. This is a momentary spell. I'll be cranky again later.

Peanut Butter Kisses

Baking is not my thing. I leave that to my mother. Thankfully, she shares her goodies with us and the oldies. But, I used to occasionally make those peanut butter cookies with the Hershey's Kiss in the middle. I don't know if they have an official name but I always call them, "Peanut Butter Kisses."

Gabby, the dog in our house, has a Kong. If you're not familiar with this toy, you probably don't own a big dog. You can stuff it with anything but the manufacturer would prefer you buy their specific treats for it. I do that sometimes. Other times, I cram generic puppy biscuits in it just to keep her occupied.

Her favorite is when I put some peanut butter in it. After the Kong is empty, 65 pounds of sloppy fur plops on my lap and attempts to thank me for the treat.

It's peanut butter kisses on an entirely different level. This is the kind of stuff that makes the husband crazy.

The Best Kisser

When I was a child, we graduated from neighborhood games, like Hide and Seek to other games, like Spin the Bottle. I remember the exact moment when someone put his tongue in my mouth. Weird! Thrilled! Now, we have to get married. (Just kidding!) I discussed it with my aunt and I remember that conversation verbatim. She gave me great advice.

I am very affectionate. I hug and kiss my friends, my family and anyone else who crosses my path. What am I saving it for? I say "I love you" a lot.

Big Daddy is my favorite kisser. A close second is my dog. It's a kiss and a bath all in one.