Kallie and I took a road trip this weekend. As mentioned in a previous blog, I love the colors, smells and sights of autumn. A drive out of the city offered some beautiful vistas of oranges, reds and coppers–along with cursing at truck driver’s and the Department of Transportation while sneaking glances at what Special K was up to in the back seat. I always look forward to returning to my childhood home and seeing my parents. It’s like heading toward a gilded fortress that is–somehow, for me–suspended in time; a home base where I’m never “it.”

As we made our way southeastward to Indiana, I was struck by the difference between driving down to visit my family this time as opposed to times before. Though I took K there in August while on LOA to meet and greet, she was a teething, biting puppy who stressed me out as a guest in someone else’s pristine home. This time I was taking a noticeably bigger, calmer version, and I was back into the rhythm being of full-time employment at work. It feels so right that I have Kallie, and on the drive I was so content knowing that I had someone to take care of, play with, and worry about, and (unfortunately) chide upon occasion. It felt really good and right for us to be together, heading to my folks’ house.

Somehow going home lends itself to a sort of magnifying glass, but one that filters out anything unimportant and focuses only on the good stuff. As usual, my parents were waiting with welcoming arms–for Kallie. I’m not sure exactly how long it took before they tore themselves away from her to notice my presence, but as a proud pet parent I could hardly blame them.

[She felt quite at home on my dad’s lap.]


[And was an “eager” helper in the kitchen with Mom.]

My aunt, sister and niece came over to hang out Saturday afternoon. It was light and fun and uncomplicated–like usual. It’s like unplugging from my every day life and leaving all thoughts and stresses behind. For so long these visits have been redemptive, and I’m so grateful for them.

[Some beautiful fall colors visible from the back yard.]

This morning was relaxed. Kallie and I played in the back yard for a while before we headed home–I’m not sure she wanted to leave.

The next day, I received an email from my mother after she noticed one of the edible chew toys I gave K to gnaw on had left a dark orange-ish stain on her brown carpeting.

Subject: Edit Please

Hope you can help me out by editing this for me. Let me know if there are any corrections/changes. I know it’s kind of vague…

GREAT OPPORTUNITY!
(Opening very recent!)

Qualifications:

Must be male
44 years old
Must own Chow puppy
Must be smart enough to not buy colored dog treats

Love,
Mom