March 9, 2010

White Dog is amazing to watch as she assesses the changes that have occurred since Quinn has joined the family and adjusts to accommodate them. She has been much more tolerant than we thought she would be in terms of sharing both her "stuff" and her humans (although she does sometimes quietly insert herself into situations involving Steve and Quinn just so both remember that he is hers first).

For the first time, before school, White Dog asked Steve to take her for a walk along with Michael and Quinn (who go each day). As Michael and Quinn strolled, White Dog raced like a pup but came back to them often to check on their progress or to point out a particularly good smell.

A charming scene unfolded at mail time. When White Dog began her usual song to the USPS; Quinn jumped up and ran out to the living room. There they stood, each on a cranberry chair at the window, tails wagging. White Dog the spokesperson; Quinn watching intently to follow her every movement. Then both went out to the porch to sniff and double sniff what was pushed through the slot.

Quinn, still quite underweight, is getting fed twice a day and White Dog is OK with that...she lets him eat in peace and never tries to take his food or interrupt him. She has growled a warning , however, when the big boy starts to giraffe neck the coffee table, exhibiting poor party manners...and you know, he stops immediately!

Right now, both are lounging in the kitchen doorway, where a pork roast is slow roasting in garlic and beer. White Dog has clearly explained to Quinn that this is one of her favorite meals and if inhaling could draw the meat to them, it would be devoured by now. Both seem to understand that there will be plenty for all and that there is not a need for competition.

As I observe both of them, coming from such different places in the world, I am fascinated by the ability of each to adapt...to be flexible...to accept change without regret...and I am a little jealous.