Tuesday, May 12, 2009

It's my birthday

And I'm doing okay. This dog has distracted me from everything.

Yesterday morning I had a breakdown, though. Since we've got the dog I had been in a panic. I couldn't stop worrying. The cats were very upset and I felt like we threw our lives upside down for selfish reasons by getting this dog. I was completely freaking out. I couldn't sleep and I could barely eat, which isn't like me at all. T was worried beyond belief. I really felt like I couldn't do it. I had a therapy appointment and we talked about all this. I cried for an hour, almost hysterically.

I'm feeling a lot better today. B-dog (I know I put his name in here, but I'm going to call him this on the blog now, just to avoid this blog being found in error -- one mention is fine, but tons might throw off searching) is barking less, and he sat on his bed last night while I made dinner. The cats came downstairs and did some sniffing. There was no growling and they sat on our laps like they usually do. Not sure they'll all be best friends, but things are returning to normal.

B-dog did fine while we were at work. He is so, so happy when we get home. He has a long. long tail and it wags in a circle.

I think it's good that I freaked out, in a way. I mean, it's better for me to have freaked out over a dog than when getting a baby. I know I'm a worry wart, but I did not know that I had this panic inside of me. I do think that it was partially because I feel like I know how to take care of a baby bu I don't know how to care for a dog, and I was worried about combining the two.

Plus, if we're adopting a child, I just think it would be so wrong to give back a dog we adopted. That just doesn't sit right. I just felt like I had made a mistake.

But B-dog is getting used to us, the cats and the house. We are establishing a pattern. This is completely do-able. We're also thinking of getting some pet gates, which could double as baby gates. That way we can keep the dog out yet nearby and still be able to put the baby on the floor.

Anyway, just another day getting used to being dog owners. He's a good boy.

14 comments:

niobe said...

Happy Birthday!

And I have to say that after every single big change in my life -- even ones that I really, really wanted -- I went through at least a few days (and sometimes much more) of panic, buyer's remorse (literal or figurative) and feeling like I just couldn't handle it. But once I settled into the new routine and got used to the change, the panic vanished.

Kelly said...

Happy birthday! Hang in there with the dog adjustments. It will just take some time.

Delenn said...

Happy Birthday! I hope you have a special day today.

I think it is a period of adjustment for all involved. Give it time. :-)

MtnGirl said...

Happy Birthday! I'm glad to hear things are calming down and they will probably continue to calm down and like you said, everyone will get into a routine, etc. Baby gates are GREAT! I have one so my cat go get away from my cocker and he can't go eat cat poop! I'm getting a cocker puppy on Sunday and I keep thinking how life is going to change big time, but he'll only be a puppy for a little while and then things will calm down, etc. Hang in there and a very Happy Birthday to you!

Lollipop Goldstein said...

Happy birthday :-) Big changes bring out big emotions. I hope things continue to settle and get even better as the house finds its groove and starts humming again.

astral said...

Happy Birthday to you!! With a new addition to the family adjustments are normal. I'm glad you are feeling better. I wish you all the best on your special day {{hugs}}

MRS. ERIN SMITH said...

Wishing you a happy day...

E

JJ said...

Happy Birthday!!

ultimatejourney said...

Happy Birthday! I hope you have a wonderful day.

It sounds like the pets are all getting acclimated, and I bet you'll be able to stop holding your breath very soon.

Almamay said...

Happy Birthday Lovely! Sending you all the best for today and this year. Lots and lots of love AM x

Lori Lavender Luz said...

Happy birthday to you!

It's taken me awhile to get used to a fish. I'm not surprised that there's an adjustment period with a dog. Even a good dog.

Anonymous said...

Happy Birthday!!

I think once you and the dog get to know each other a bit better, everything is going to be fine. And when the time comes to bring home your baby, you will have the dog thing down like second nature and it won't eve be a issue.

B said...

Well happy birthday. And although a dog may cause anxiety at first the equation usually swaps in favour of love and affection very soon.

Good for you
B

beagle said...

Sorry I am late to the party! Happy belated!! We almost share a birthday!