Ah, that's better

I've been thinking a lot about what might be behind part of my emptiness (which is, by the way, lessening, I'm happy to report). Part of it is probably quite common among mothers...when the kids start to become more independent the moms feel less needed. Not that they don't need me, but they simply don't need me as much. It is bittersweet. While it is heartwarming, satisfying, and positive that they can stand on their own as they grow, I miss them. I miss that Alex used to want me to tuck him in every night; that Nathan couldn't pay outside without a grown-up with him; that they would need help brushing their teeth and washing their faces. Having said that, it is somewhat freeing to have extra time for other things...like me. I've read loads of books, started to meditate, and am getting through the years of clutter bit by bit. I am productive. I am crossing things off my list.

And I have a puppy. The sweetest, most affectionate, fluffiest, silliest puppy who, as Nathan put it, is the best puppy in the whole world for us. Tinny (you Republic of Doyle fans will recognise the name) has already brought hours of smiles and laughter to our family and we are all smitten. Even Bob, who wanted nothing to do with having a puppy, was caught playing with her last night when he thought nobody was looking. Tinny has brought me out of my shell in that I am getting out every day walking her and she is company for me all day. It's perfect. That's better.