Life with the WAGS

Sid and the Bull

The next day, I wake up to find Sidney and Jackson outside playing ball. I'm happy to see that the Great Dane having another friend. I take my phone to the backyard and I text Travis.
Text Conversation:
Hey.
Hey.
Is Sidney okay?
Yeah. He's playing with Jackson.
That's good. Are you okay?
Not really.
What's wrong?
I'm missing you and Rob.
I can't wait to get back to Los Angeles.
How come?
I miss you and Jackson. It's tough being an athlete and finding out how much you two mean to me is my driving force.
Aw. I'm thankful that I have you too. Ik this situation with Sidney isn't ideal but he's going to get through this. Jackson is keeping him company right now.
Any plans with Sidney?
I think it'll be a movie day.
Oh.
Are you okay?
Not really.
Is the heat getting to you?
No. I'm drinking a lot of water and Gatorade.
That's great. I have to prepare for the movie day with Sidney.
I have to get back to practice.
A few moments later, Sidney and Jackson come into the house. Jackson starts nudging me and I smile at the dog. I get food and water for him. I look forward to the movie day with Sidney. As Sidney comes down stairs, I noticed his slow movements. He stops at the bottom of the stairs and reflects on his relationships. I'm waiting for the hockey player to get to the couch but I don't move. An hour later, Sidney and I are waiting a movie. We alternate movie genres and the last movie is a favorite of mine. The Longest Ride starts and I get an idea. After the movie ends, I grab my phone, car keys and Sidney. I look at the scenery and it's beautiful. I put my car in park in a parking lot and I get out. Sidney looks at me confused but I explain the one element of the movie. The best thing about this is that I have a friend. I grab my phone and I text Rob.
Text Conversation:
Rob, you are not going to believe the idea I have to get Sidney out of his funk and comfort zone.
Bull riding?
Yup. It's a long story.
I'm proud of you. What did Sidney think?
He hasn't been told that he'll be bull riding.
Would you please tell Sid?
When the time is right. I want this to be a super fun experience.
I have to go.
Bye!
My brain goes into panic mode and I sit in the empty cage. I tell Sidney why we're here. The best thing to do is just keep going. I interview some riders and handlers. The moment of truth is in Sidney's hands. I interview him as he's getting prepared. I'm sitting in the bleachers worried about Sidney. I look over to the cage and I see him panicking about his ride. It takes a moment for me to calm down and the cage opens. Sidney holds on tightly and he lasts the eight seconds. I hug him and we leave.