This past weekend started off with a visit from Dexter — Kayla’s Jack Russell, named after the TV show she is so enamored with. Let me just say that I’ve never seen Dexter, the show, but I’m a big fan of Dexter, the puppy. He wasn’t too fond of certain activities Kayla had picked out for him — his least favorite was going down the slide — but overall it was a good day for everyone.
To understand my love for animals, you’d probably have to understand what my house looks like. By no means am I exaggerating when I say the vacuum is considered our house pet, which means animals are strictly forbidden. As a child I launched a number of unsuccessful campaigns for a house cat, dog, hamster, frog, and eventually a fish — but even that suggestion was shot down. I once managed to bring a plant home, but that only lasted an hour or so before my mom removed it from my room and exiled it to the kitchen counter, where she could be sure if its whereabouts. Why, who knows what kinds of messes that plant would have caused? If you think I’m exaggerating, just talk to anyone who has actually been inside of my house. It’s rare that one makes it through the door without already breaking a rule — there’s a very strict shoe removal policy that involves careful placement of the feet so as not to track dirt into the house. However, bare feet are also strictly forbidden. Socks are a must, as foot sweat poses a great threat to both tiled and hardwood floors. And heaven knows even after a thorough mopping session, my mother can tell where those bare feet have made their mark. OCD doesn’t even begin to cover it.
Growing up around that kind of obsessive behavior makes me constantly examine the level of stress in my life, and the extent to which my own behavioral patterns contribute to that stress. I’ve always seen my busy schedule and level of involvement as a positive thing, and I still do — but I’ve learned that certain things aren’t worth my time. I put too much work into meaningful organizations and people who appreciate that effort to worry about those that maybe aren’t so rewarding or useful. I’m proud of my involvement with various activities and I enjoy a lot of what I do, but from now on I’m resolving to cut out the things in my life that I spend more time complaining about than enjoying. It’s never too late in the year for a new resolution, right?
Oh, and number two: get a puppy.
Lovely writing, profound reflection, joyous resolution!
One question though: may I please come play with your puppy?
Haha — I’ll let you know next time Kayla brings him around!
Awwww, cute puppy! I’m not a huge dog person but I’ve always considered getting one (maybe a small one – not too scary!).
I definitely agree on the cutting things out of your life bit. Rest and relaxation and fun time is much more important than taking on so many responsibilities!
So true — especially when those responsibilities involve more stress than they’re worth! And I definitely want to get a small dog, too. If we could keep pets in the dorm, I’d probably force Kayla to let Dexter live here