We have a new family member, my sweet and energetic grand puppy Benny. Look at that face! His tale is one of destiny—at least that’s what I keep telling Kevin.
You see, we went to Misfits a few weeks ago, when the weather was still manageable, to sit outside, enjoy the brews of the small business, and get some work done. (Get some work done is just about always on the list.) As soon as we walked in, a sweet chocolate puppy pounced right at me. I asked the woman on the other end of the leash if I could pet him, though I couldn’t imagine much being able to stop me. I can be polite sometimes, but that puppy was begging for pets. Who was I to refuse him?
She said, “Yes, and he’s up for adoption.”
Something about those words and this adorable, energetic puppy filled me with intent. Kevin saw it too, because he sighed in the most husband tone ever and ordered a beer. I knew I had an ally though. Immediately, I Facetimed Jenna, our daughter, so she could see the baby. She was like awwwwww. As soon as I said, “He’s up for adoption,” she said, “I’m on my way.”
She fell in love even faster than I did. And here, by the way, is the magic of having a responsible young adult for a daughter, she was prepared to take care of this puppy in every definition of the word. Jenna had a steady income as a dog groomer; she’d watched me train a couple puppies and knew I’d help her here as well; she had the energy to lose some sleep and take the puppy on walks; and she had the biggest heart in the world to love him. After about an hour of ensuring Kevin that this was not our puppy but Jenna’s, he finally gave in and Jenna took Benny home.
And what an adventure it’s been. Benny is like a two year old that never stops running and, luckily, he’s super smart. He loves water and cuddles. While Jenna’s at work, he sleeps in his kennel. Since I work from home, I get to let him out midday to go potty and play. I’m teaching him how to fetch, because I don’t have Jenna’s energy to run him around the neighborhood. It’s a blessing to get to work from home, so I can have this quality time with my grand puppy.
I guess this is like having a friend with a boat. You’re responsible for only a tiny share of the work and you get all the fun. Except with a puppy, I get kisses too.
