The White House and My House

My esteemed  daughter, Mr. Bubbas, Ms. Rory and Ms. Cleo,

We are seventeen years into the life of my esteemed daughter.  Seventeen years that dawned with fear touching my life; that unfolded with a surprising new generation about to emerge; that greeted your birth with happiness and nervousness; that saw joy and sorrow in equal measures.  You were a surprise, and a blessing.  You changed my life in so many ways; all for the better. It has been, and still is, an unbelievable ride and an incredible honor to be your mother. 

There have been a lot of changes in the past 17 years.  Dating disasters (mainly mine), one short-lived marriage (mine), experiences of country living, the purchase of a house. Different school districts.  But one thing remained constant – we are a family, albeit a small one.  And soon, you could be possibly heading away to school. Even if you stay home, you will no longer be a child, but an adult. 

Twelve years ago, we added Ms. Cleo to the mix.  Ms. Cleo, you were so tiny as a kitten that my mother didn’t think you’d survive.  Well, you not only survived, you thrived and were right by my side thru three moves, 3 other cats (one, Macy, which we unfortunately lost after a mere two years) and two dogs. 

Six years ago, we added another addition to the family, Mr. Bubbas.  Mr. Bubbas, your name has evolved from your prison name to what it is today.  You’ve been there for the two of us in ways no other dog could be. You protected us (from dangers real and imaginary), made us laugh, cheered us up.  Your presence is invaluable.

About a year and a half, Ms. Rory Olasewere came to live with us.  Your name is from our two greatest loves – Rory, from “The Gilmore Girls” and Olasewere, from college basketball (Jamal Olasewere, forward for the Long Island University at Brooklyn).  We attended the First Four play-in games at the University of Dayton, and just thought the name was cool.  Ms. Rory, your energy is infectious and your eager-to-please attitude makes you the sweet, lovable dog that you are. 

I’m not sure what the upcoming years will bring, but I am looking forward to it.  Will we be in the same household this time next year? Will we still have the same relationship we have now? Will we all be together? Will you be living in the dorm on a college campus? 

I don’t know. I know it will be hard watching you on your journey into adulthood.  I hope I have given you the tools to make good decisions. Parents always question their actions, and I hope that you understand why I made decisions that I did, even if they proved to be wrong. Life is a learning experience, and I have learned so much from you. I love you.

Written by: Allyson Johns