Living with a Labrador

A few weeks ago, I arrived home about 1:30 AM after a 2 hour flight delay and was promptly met at the back door by my personal greeter – Brodie Brown.

When we were looking for a dog to replace our beloved Bailey I had two requirements: 1.) a Lab to love & spoil 2. ) I needed to be worshiped, that included someone to greet me every time I walked through the door – it doesn’t matter how many times I come into the house, someone needs to be happy to see me. Each. And. Every. Time. Without. Fail.

I was happily worshiped and pleased with the homecoming that Brodie provided me at 1:30 AM.

It took a little while to settle down and I got to sleep around 2:15 AM and went into a deep sleep. At 4:30 AM my husband left for work, I didn’t move, Brodie also slept through his departure. He knew I was home, and stayed cozy in his bed knowing that breakfast and his morning walk would come later. His definition of later and my definition of later were clearly different.

The sun came up about 5:30 AM, and that was when Brodie decided we should be awake. The sun is up momma. Must. Go. To. The. Park! I am awakened by Brodie’s front paws on my bed and a big wet nose on my face. Without opening my eyes I shooed him away and fell back asleep. This exact same process was repeated at 6:00 AM. Again at 6:30 AM – this time I am unsuccessful in the shooing and he persists – more nose touching & a few kisses this time. Must. Go. To. The. Park!

I am awake, dressed quickly, teeth brushed, hat on, and travel coffee cup in hand. Brodie required a leash, a bag and a ball. We are ready to roll. Thank goodness the park is only 1 ½ blocks from the house, I walked slowly, sipping coffee every few steps. We got to the park and the retriever games were on. I checked my email on my phone and snapped this quick picture.

The picture I missed was when he found a mud hole, likely created by the morning round of sprinklers, and laid down in it. I have 4 hours of sleep, 1 cup of coffee, and 1 muddy Labrador. Fantastic.

After the trip to the park and a quick spin of the hose, his breakfast was served. I am exhausted, 4 hours is not enough sleep for me, but was up and started my day.

I guess life is all about trade offs; I got worshiped at 1:30 AM and he got to go to the park at 6:30 AM. We are even.