So I wanted to start a new tradition for my Family this year — We rented a house at Emerald Isle for Christmas. My sister and my niece Heather have been here since Monday. My parents got here yesterday. I’ve watched Beethoven’s Big Break 3 1/2 times. We’ve watched The Sandlot (ONLY because there was a dog on the back of the DVD) TWICE — And so I was only slightly surprised when my parents got Marley & Me for my niece for Christmas. We open ONE present on Christmas Eve and that was her choice.

We just watched it. And I almost made it through the whole thing, Marley & Me. Not without sniffling, I’m not heartless. And I’ve had my fair share of dogs come and go. We moved a lot. My family. Anyway, long story. So we’re near the end, Marley goes to the vet for the first time and Heather says, “Is he gonna die?” — Now, she’s seen the ENTIRE MOVIE at least half a dozen times (so she ALREADY knows), which I found out was the only reason my parents got Marley & Me for a 5 year old. It’s her FAVORITE — She asks again, “Mom, is Marley going to die?” “Yes, Heather.” And then the line which destroyed Uncle Zach.

(choking back tears) “But Mom, Marley was such a great dog.”

Floodgates open. ENTIRE family crying.

But, reindeer food has been sprinkled and my Santa costume has been unpacked.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!