Summer Vacation

Two rare events are about happen. One: We are taking a vacation. Two: We are taking a vacation without the dogs. For the most part, we enjoy traveling with the dogs. Like most parents, it's all fun and games for the first five minutes.

Vegas as I've mentioned is the most mellow of car riders. She lies quietly on whatever soft bed we've created, sleeps the day away and asks for nothing. Do not drive over any of the rumble strips though because as far as we can tell, to her it's a quick onset of thunder and she will attempt to take over the driving responsibility (while I'm still driving).

Molly on the other hand is the classic definition of a dog or child with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD. "Are we there yet?" she asks, one paw on the front console, the other on Vegas' head. "Down Molly" is the response said gently, but firmly.

Five minutes later she asks, "Are we there yet?" this time with two paws on the console in the front and her back feet on Vegas' face. Vegas doesn't move but looks up at me imploringly, "Can't you do something?". "Down Molly" said firmly, with love. Molly retreats.

Five minutes later. Molly. Two feet in front, one in my coffee, one on the console. "Molly!" said not so much with love, but with exasperation. I ask the driver, "Can I drive now?". The driver responds gently but firmly, "No thank you." Molly's waltz between the back seat and the front seat goes on for the next twelve hours. She is happy, not under any duress and clearly excited about the impending adventure. I was like this at the beginning of the day.

The second day is somewhat better because she is exhausted and her trips to the front seat are broken into fifteen minute segments. Whoever is driving is content to continue driving so as not to deal with OCD dog. The passenger is using language that would make a sailor blush. Vegas remains calm throughout.

This coming week, I will know that the girls are having a weeks worth of slumber parties with their favorite dog sitter. They know that Emily is one of the pack and she loves them which makes us love Emily.

I will miss the puppy kisses, gentle head nod Molly gives, the welcome home dance. But it will be here when I get back and having something so grand to look forward to, like summer vacation, makes me smile.

Special Shout Out to Gary who Vegas & Molly met tonight at the Park. Look forward to some long walks in the future!