I love my dog. I love my son. I love when I can interact with them both simultaneously. There are few joys greater than the wide-eyed amazement in a child’s eyes when their beloved canine friend goes full speed after a squirrel or a ball. Likewise, the sight of my four legged friend cuddled next to a sleeping little man is awesome (and no it’s not because he’s sleeping).

Today I decided I’d try something truly unique. In the style of an old western, I tied Maddie to Ryan’s little car and walked them both around our neighborhood. It was a beautiful night and i thought it would be easier to control my two mates. After a few minutes though I started to see pictures of the wide-eyed amazement in a father’s eyes as the dog took off after a squirrel. I untied Maddie and proudly thought that, on the eve of my 31st birthday, common sense won the day…. Sort of.