There is a poem by Taylor Mali called "How Falling in Love is like Owning a Dog," which is an excellent read for all four-legged-friend lovers in a committed relationship. It describes how dogs, like relationships, require never-ending love, attention and hard work, despite the messes they may make along the way.

This poem was read at my wedding four years ago, and as I recently revisited it, reflecting on its deeper meaning, it inspired me to think about the other relationships in my life that require tending to. I immediately thought of friendship because, as a new Mom, I have made an abundance of new friends this past year, for which I am incredibly grateful.