The Lessons of Lexi-Dog

My 17 year old daughter Carly found her stuffed animal Lexi-Dog after a frantic 15 minute search the other night. Carly was panic stricken and as she so eloquently put it; “mom , I need to find her, she can’t be lost!” Lexi-Dog somehow ended up in a drawer tucked away, safe and sound. Heart attack averted.

Lexi-Dog is Carlys well worn stuffed animal, given to her before she was one year old by my cousin Matt. Lexi-Dog was Carlys constant companion as she was growing up, along with Rah-Rah seal her dear cousin Shayna’s beloved stuffed toy. Both girls love those stuffed animals. There are many pictures over the years with Lexi-Dog and Rah-Rah as the girls grew up. It’s now a family tradition to snap a shot with all 4 of them together.

By now they are well worn and falling apart. Lexi-Dogs fur is almost gone, her head a bit off kilter. Carly says, I loved her so much that the fur is gone. Rah-Rah’s head needed to be sewn back on, Shayna loved her well too.

Those stuffed animals hold many deep secrets, deep emotions and deep feelings. Carly turned to Lexi-Dog when her life was turned upside down as a little girl when her dad and I separated and divorced. She was also a constant confident when her brother was out of control and needed to be hospitalized. Lexi-Dog has experienced many an emotional upheaval including arguments with friends, stress at school, a fight with mom,  break up with boyfriends, etc.

She has been Carlys partner in comfort when her heart hurts. Lexi-Dog listens intently, never judges or tells her what to do or how to feel. She accepts Carly for who she is and offers her unconditional love and support when it is most needed.

At this moment, Lexi-Dog lives with Carly in her room. Not  as a constant friend in need, as a constant friend who holds a special place in her heart. She reminds Carly that she is able to express her inner most fears during turbulent and upsetting times. And to find comfort and support within herself to heal and find joy and happiness.

Rah-Rah will be journeying to Rutgers University this coming September with Shayna. Lexi-Dog will remain here at home this year, preparing herself with Carly for her journey to college next year.

Lexi-Dog and Rah-Rah are dear old friends. Constant reminders to the girls that they are well loved, appreciated for the unconditional friendship,  emotional support and healing.  Lexi-Dog and Rah-Rah are truly honored and proud to still hold a special place in Carly and Shayna’s hearts, not because they need to, because the girls want them to.