Take, for instance, the question of companionship. It's a tough call, this one - especially for newlyweds. But basically, it boils down to this:
Should you get a dog?
Or should you have kids?
I'll leave this decision up to you. But, suffice to say that, having suffered through the Gordon Years, when life consisted of praying that the UPS man would not sue, we've opted for Door Number Two. Twice. And, even though my ever-so-slightly OCD husband complains about our preschooler's tendency to "mix" those blasted Magic Markers and crayons within the same plastic bin, our house has yet to achieve the epic decorating scheme enployed by these little tikes.
But books, you say? Yes, books! Because this blog is now a book blog. So, as we reflect upon the many joys and tribulations of dogs and kids, you may want to check out the following:
Man of the House: Reflections on Life with Dogs, Divas and a Bunch of Little Dudes Who Keep Calling Me Dad, by Chris Erskine (Rodale, $23.95).
It’s a skill to make people laugh and cry at the same time, but Chris Erskine manages to do just that. He also makes you think. A Los Angeles Times columnist who writes about family life in the suburbs -- without Dave Barry's wacky (and at times, rather senseless) humor -- Erskine explores adoring toddlers, narcissistic teenagers, beautiful neighbors and exhausted spouses in an engaging yet surprisingly profound way. From childbirth to aging via the empty nest, he offers witticisms and insights that we can all relate to.
If you're looking for a nice Father's Day gift, a few weeks in advance, "Man of the House" just might be it.
With Southern love,
Annabelle