Big Sister

How is Georgia handling the impending arrival of her new baby brother?

Sometimes she curls up with her head and ears against my belly and falls asleep listening to the aqua-aerobics going on inside. Other times she curls up around it and I wonder if she’s trying to snuggle him or stand guard. Before I was pregnant, she used to inconsiderately jump all over me all the time. She was never gentle when she wanted something - like to play or to go outside. Then suddenly I swear she just knew that I was pregnant. She was careful, suddenly I was treated delicately. She’ll beat up on the couch and bark to get my attention, or tap my shoulder - but she’s very careful with my midsection now. And she’s still as rough as ever with Mike when she’s feeling feisty and wants to play/wrestle.

It’s very sweet, but it’s not all sunshine and roses. There are many times when she already gets jealous. There are times when she acts out. This is a big change for her and it’s just the start of what will probably be a difficult transition. She is so used to being the center of attention and we’ve spoiled her. Sharing the spotlight is difficult for children and dogs when a new sibling comes home. We’ve put together a game plan to smooth things out the best we can, but we don’t expect it to be easy. We’re hoping for the best (Georgia’s acceptance, love and protectiveness) and preparing for the worst (wanting to eat the screaming pink thing that stole all her glory).