Who do you spend the most time with?

Morning Symphony

A sun conure parrot screeches “good morning” while two snuggle pups wake me up to start their day of antics. They’re insistent on being fed, their basic needs taking priority over my desire for just five more minutes of sleep. Once they’ve devoured their good food, they’re ready for their first morning nap of the day. Aryn retreats to her crate while Reubyn claims the sofa, his head perfectly positioned on a pillow like a tiny, furry human.

The Daily Routine

My husband leaves for work every morning, which means the three of us settle into our own rhythm of mutual dependence. Our daily conversations are filled with familiar refrains: “No snacks,” “There’s no one at the door,” “Stop barking,” and my favorite, “Who’s your mama?!” These aren’t really conversations so much as negotiations with two very opinionated furry family members who have their own ideas about how the day should unfold.

My Emotional Support Team

I love my babies, and having them close by relieves most of my anxiety. They seem to possess an uncanny ability to sense when I’m struggling—when an anxiety or panic episode begins to build, they’re right there, literally in my face. It’s as if they transform into tiny therapists, giving me the opportunity to hug, pet, and play with them until the overwhelming feelings begin to subside. Their presence grounds me in a way that nothing else can.

The Delivery Drama

If UPS or Amazon dare to deliver a package, they must endure a barrage of protective barking. I find myself squeezing out the door quickly so my two security guards can’t follow, then picking up packages that must be thoroughly inspected by my canine surveillance team who seem to materialize at the door the moment they hear an unfamiliar footstep.

Evening Shift Change

We’re all best buddies until around 5 PM, when their daddy—my husband—comes home from work. Suddenly, I become chopped liver as he becomes their sole focus. He feeds them and plays with them, and I get the honor of giving them treats afterward, like a supporting actor in the evening show.

Bedtime Rituals

When bedtime rolls around, we put them in their sleep shirts—a nightly routine that never fails to make them look both dignified and ridiculous. We all crawl into bed together, each baby claiming their favorite sleeping position and buddy. I get Reubyn as my sleeping companion, while Aryn chooses my husband as hers. Under the covers they burrow, warm and content, until morning comes to start the whole beautiful, chaotic cycle over again.

This isn’t just pet ownership—it’s a daily dance of love, routine, and the kind of unconditional companionship that makes even the most challenging days feel manageable.