Discovery

Jefferson, the dog, joined our family when The Boy was getting close to about 18 months. It was love at first sight for those two. Which, incidentally, secured has kept a roof over Jefferson, the dog's, head ever since.

With the two children that followed I find it interesting when they finally discover the extra family member on four legs. As babies I usually don't let Jefferson, the dog, too close. Even then he's got a big nose so he always seemed to get close enough to sniff sniff. I did this partly because he's not the lazy basset hound that I was promised when we brought him home. I guess it's the fact that they don't seem to notice him until they become mobile.

With Miss Thing, shockingly enough, while sometimes interested she only had eyes for her mother. And since her mother didn't fall in love with Jefferson, the dog, at first sight neither did Miss Thing. That pretty much explains their relationship now, when it's convenient for her then she'll play with him. But not as long as she has food in her hands, on the counter, anywhere that he might try to get it.

I'm finding Little Miss to be much more enamored with him, just like her brother. I can't say that she is just now noticing his existence. She would watch him, with interest, wander around from the safety of her high chair. Now, though, she is mobile. Getting where she wants to when she wants it. It's because of this I think that real discovery, that real friendship has begun.

In no way is it a one way street. He is just as anxious for this time of mobility to lick her face just about off.

And sit as close as possible to her. Which usually translates to being right about on top of her.

Her little bit of affection doesn't seem to bother him as he looks the other way.

Jefferson, the dog, on a day to day basis drives me crazy and helps very little with my growing piles of laundry and dishes. If he did help with the growing piles of laundry and dishes this would be a very different story. Even so how can his place in this family not be solidified when I see things like this? He is a lucky dog. One. Lucky. Dog.