January 4, 2010

White Dog, with plenty of time to think during these past few days as she recuperated, has given much thought to the idea of making resolutions for the New Year. She is sort of fascinated by the human idea that on this arbitrary day we stand before the mirror or God or our family and make pledges to change ourselves. "Why?" she asks, "wouldn't you just make those changes across the year when you realize that you want something to be different?" I explained the idea that new beginnings are for the start of the new year and again she was skeptical. "Who even decided that the coldest, darkest, most uninspiring time of the year was the place in the calendar to begin a new year? It makes no sense!" Nonetheless, White Dog, curious observer that she is, decided to experiment with making resolutions. "I won't get punished if I can't do this?" she checked. "Most humans only keep their resolutions for a few weeks at best so I don't think there is a punishment factor to consider," I told her. "OK, then, let's see...

1. I, White Dog, resolve to be more patient with dad when he is slow to get ready for walks or to go to the Park! ("That is a good one," I encouraged);

2. I, White Dog, resolve to try to be more understanding of Dragon when he comes over and wants to horde all of my best stuff! ("Admirable," I said);

3. I, White Dog, resolve to be less of a spoiled and over-demanding Princess when you and dad are busy...no wait, I can't, there's no way I could ever keep that resolution!" ("It is OK, baby girl, we love you just the way you are!")