Going Forward

When I lost Gracie, I was convinced I would not own another dog - bringing to an end a life long succession of dogs. With a shortened personal planning cycle - 3 months - I didn't feel it would be fair to a dog.  Developing a new relationship only to have it fall apart before it even developed.  (I actually had a bit of the same thoughts about new friends - but that's another story. )

As time has progressed and I am still here and in relatively good health - excellent health - I am feeling more confident about the continuation of my story.  Not having a dog left a large hole in my feeling of my house being my home. 

John and I spent some time pondering the pros and cons of having another dog. John has really never owned a dog before, but loved Gracie. Through a series of serendipitous events, we found ourselves near to the kennel where I got Gracie, and they had an older puppy available... so we went to look. Serendipitously, the dog seemed close to perfect... and made the drive back home (10 hours) with no mishaps.

This was not to continue. A couple of days of adjustment threatened to turn into months and I seriously questioned the decision.  Blessed with John's patience and the help of a couple of trainers, we are on a good track now and have decided to keep him.  We are now embracing him with open arms.  I know this is a very worthwhile venture. 

 I let John name him - a simple name that rolls off of the tongue... So I now introduce you to . LUCRECIUS named after the Epicurean Roman poet.  It is, I am sure, a name he will grow into!

Lucrecius with the Daffodils

Nine months old, 43 pounds and hopefully nearly finished growing.  Golden Doodle.  Friendly, gentle, follows closely, plays "fetch" with the tennis ball...

Keep your fingers crossed that he will continue to be as even tempered and willing to please.  

and that we will have many years of fun together.