We’ve been talking about it for a while…. Wouldn’t it be nice to get a dog? Mr. Disney and I pointed out dogs to each other on our runs at the lake and we usually agreed on the size, breed, and general energy level of the dogs we spotted. Then we went to CA to visit family and we spent time with Sonny, Spatz, and Maddie. Each night before we went to sleep, I’d whisper to Mr. Disney, “I want a dog.” He’d respond with a smile.

I got back to Chicago Monday night. On Tuesday, Mr. Disney and I went to PAWS Chicago to look for a dog. We saw all kinds of dogs – shepherds, pit bulls, beagles, huskies – all of them putting on a show in an attempt to convince us to adopt. They were  cute, but none were exactly right. We were just about to leave when we turned a corner and saw her.  A young, feisty, bundle of happiness with expressive eyebrows, floppy ears, and a back end that moves faster than her front end.

After taking her into a separate room to play, Mr. Disney was convinced. I was aloof.  Was this really the right time? I want a dog, but does it make sense while we still have two households? Should we be practical or follow our hearts? I was getting ready to talk some sense into Mr. Disney when I heard someone else comment on our dog. “Oh, she’s so cute! What about this one?” I turned to Mr. Disney and said, “Let’s adopt her. I don’t want anyone else taking our dog home.”

It’s been 6 days of puppy bliss. We named her Sookie /sʊki/. She is starting to learn her name, she is very good at sitting, she loves playing with other dogs, she learned how to dig in the sand at the lake, she has a growl and bark that belie her sweet nature, and she makes us insanely happy.

And for those interested in hearing her puppy growl, a video of a play session with Mr. Disney:

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