Part of the puppy experience is growing up. A puppy is so clueless and helpless that she needs her family to show her what to do. Kids are great at doing that. They love being the teacher, especially after being told what to do all day in school. Little do they realize, though, the authority they wield with the puppy is seeping into their very souls and making them grow up just a little.
I see it when we go for a walk up our trail. The kids are happy to hold Tinkham's leash. Yeah, it's fun, but they weren't super stoked to hold Treen's leash when we walked. They guide Tink to the side of the trail when other hikers are approaching without being reminded. Perhaps most importantly, they're thinking about more than themselves.
Even at home, it's apparent the puppy is changing them. Ring ring at the door as Tink wants to go out. They don't always jump up at the first jingle, but with only a little nudge they suit up and head out. When she does her business, they dutifully (heh) get the bucket and the shovel and clean it up. When Tink chews up a toy and spreads stuffing all over the house they actually clean it up rather than leaving it for us.
I won't pretend there's no complaining or whining at times. They're kids. But they've come a long way since Tinkham came home. I'm sure they would have matured like this eventually, but it turned out all it took was a puppy. Talk about a sweet deal!
