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A Daughter's Strength

This morning we brought our puppy Lucy in to the veterinarian's office to get spayed.  I know it's routine and good for her and all that, but it's still a surgical procedure, and she's still being left at a place where she doesn't know anyone and will hear a bunch of dogs barking all day.  

A few days ago, I started to feel anxious about the procedure.  I felt protective of Lucy for the first time.  I was instantly reminded of the way I felt when my son was born and not 24 hours later, my obstetrician told me they were going to perform his circumcision.  I was tired and still delirious from the lengthy and painful labor.  But I felt intensely protective and possessive.  Seeing the fear in my expression, the doctor reassured me that it was routine and he'd be okay.  That was the first time I felt like a mother.

As for Lucy, my 10 year-old daughter insisted that she come with me to bring her in for the appointment.  I said okay, but I was secretly concerned that she would start crying at the vet's office when it was time to leave.  She didn't.  She said, "It's okay mom, Lucy will be fine.  Let's do something to take our mind off of her being here." 

I teared up a little.  That was the first time I truly felt like Lucy's mom.

Comments

Joanne said…
and the daughter is caring for the mom.... nice.
October 11, 2010 at 10:26 AM
Anonymous said…
Sweet of her.
October 11, 2010 at 1:00 PM
Nancy said…
This does not surprise me about Maggie. You can tell she is strong and that, in my opinion, is a great trait to have for a girl. She will do well in life.
October 11, 2010 at 3:56 PM
Anonymous said…
I agree with Joanne.
October 11, 2010 at 4:28 PM
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