Jack at the ready

 

I talked about showing up the other day. One of my inspirations for that is actually my dog.

He’s a fabulous feisty Jack Russell Terrier named after Jack Bauer from the TV series 24. He’s got the same sort of persistence and tenacity. Although he also chills a fair bit. In his bed, in our bed (by invitation only), on the sheepskin in his favourite chair.

But if you offer a walk or any form of entertainment, he’s always up for it. He can be blissfully asleep one minute and chomping at the bit to go out the next. He sees you putting on shoes and a jacket and he’s by the back door ready to go. Rain or shine. No excuses. No procrastination. Ever. Ok, maybe on Guy Fawkes Night and New Years Eve. Fireworks are not his thing.

I don’t need to list the excuses I might on occasion come up with for not wanting to take him out. Conversations you might have on a day like today:

Jack: Let’s go out and play!
Me: Not today Jack, the weather is terrible out there.
Jack: So? Let’s go out and play!
Me:
No really, it’s windy and raining and and and...
Jack:
So? Let’s go out and play!

I wonder what the dialogue would sound like if the tables were turned:

Me: Jack, let’s go out and play!
Jack: Have you seen the weather out there? I don’t wanna get all wet and dirty!
Me:
So? I’ll just give you a bath afterwards!

Jack: Yeah, so I can smell like peppermint like a poof! <Please don’t mention that I tried to mount a dog called Rocky in the park. Twice.>                                                                                                                                                    Me: C’mon, it’ll be great to get some fresh air!                                                                            Jack: I’ve been out running with the big dude every day for the last week. I need a day off. As a matter of fact, I am having a duvet day. Have fun without me.

I think I’ve made my point. The only problem is now I have to go out with Jack. On a miserable and rainy day. For integrity’s sake.

Damn. 

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