The Reluctant Best Friend

Declan absolutely ADORES Elphie, our 3 year old Mati-Poo. Her full name is actually Elphaba, from the book & musical WICKED. We chose the name for two reasons, one being that her hair is black and Elphaba's hair in WICKED is black. The other reason being, the woman who took care of her at the Humane Society said that she had a tiny wicked streak in her.
It turns out that Elphie does not have a wicked streak in her at all. She is the sweetest, silliest, most loving doggie and we are so glad she is a part of our family. Unfortunately, I don't think that she is as happy to be a part of our family, at this time, thanks to Declan.
When he was first born, Elphie was very anxious and attentive. She would periodically trot into the room where he was and sniff his face as if checking up on him. If he was crying in one room and I was in another, she would find me and give me a look that said, "The boy is crying, can't you hear him?" If one of us was sitting on the couch holding him, she would be right at our feet, protecting us I'm sure.
But now that Declan is mobile, it's quite a different story. She hardly ever comes near him. She stays out of the way, hiding in our bedroom. She avoids any contact with him.

Every once in a while, if Sean or I are close by, she will join us in some family time. Declan is thrilled! He smiles and squeals in delight, flapping his arms up and down. And then he lunges for her, grabbing fistfuls of fur in his hands. So, she sits and obligingly endures, with a pitiful expression on her face. Poor Elphie. I wish I could explain to her that she will not always be his reluctant best friend, but someday soon, his eager companion.