Recently, we were packed up and ready to drive to Aspen for fun and skiing during World Cup. Annually, Michele and I have begun a tradition of terrorizing a discounted Aspen hotel with our pack of kids and husbands. We were frantically packing as if we were spending a week in St. Moritz, when Axel, in his cool, mellow way, casually mentioned that Charlie was dragging our food, for the weekend (dining in Aspen is passé), out of the back of our car and into his yard. I say to Axel, “when something needs immediate tending to, please put a little more drama into your voice”.

Charlie, a big, overly friendly black lab with an enormous head, has adopted us as his second family. The boys are not fooled though. They are ready to add more chaos to the family. Being that I was recently bitten on my bum by a skittish, insecure mutt I am putting my foot down and saying NO. We already have a self -proclaimed dog and his name is, Brevitt.

It was 9pm and we were ready to entourage over to the fireworks and enjoy Aspen lit up in all her splendor, in a snowstorm. Axel came in and quietly stated, that Brevitt had fallen into the pool whilst throwing a snowball. I looked up and wondered if this was for real when in walks Brevitt. He was dripping from his hat and his gloves to his sorrels. Sadly he mentioned that he was ok but  if he couldn’t wear his cool snow clothes than he would just as soon stay at the hotel and miss the fireworks. This was clearly not an option. I had to think quickly. “Tucker go with Daddy so that he can manage your four year old meltdowns. Axel go with your second mom, Auntie Michele. Brevitt walk with me to throw your dripping wet clothes into the only hotel in town that has a dryer”. Take a deep breath and move forward.

(Charlie with Axel and his buddy)