The Kids Are Alright. Kinda.

Remember when you were a kid, and your mom made you and your friends play with some new kid that you didn't know, and didn't even want to know? Maybe she was BFF's with the kids' mom. Maybe she thought you needed a friend. Whatever. You were forced into a relationship. The kid played too rough with your toys, got all in your business, ate your snacks, and your mom acted like this freeloader walked on water. Stuff you got busted for, this kid got away with. "He's new, he doesn't know our rules yet." He's trying, he just wants to play with you." "Be nice to him." Geez, Mom...

This is happening at my house, right now. Katie, the oldest sibling, is put off completely by this interloper, Ava. Ava is so annoying. She wants to be right next to Katie.  She wants Katie to play. She doesn't know that each dog has their own dish, so she eats from all of them. Oh the humanity!

Frankie is less critical of Ava in general, but she does get upset when Mom pays special attention to Ava. After all, Frankie is the BABY. He's been pouting and sulking when I show love to Ava, but if I ignore her, Frankie is happy to play with Ava, and even shares his toys with her. Frankie has a very generous spirit. Jealous, but generous.

At some point, everyone will get along. Or they had better, because this isn't somebody else's kid come over to play. She's mine. Forever.

Ava's shelter days are over!