Impulse decisions are the way we work best here in the Thome home. Over thinking leads to second guessing, impending deferment and subsequent squashing of a great idea. My chicken coop dreams were swooped away when our city gave us a “Um …. hm. I do not know if that is allowed, by 2016 yes, for sure, but for now, um.. .. let me contact someone for you” Over and over again. That ship sailed so quickly. I was not heartbroken, lets not get hung up over baby chicks. Don’t count your chickens before they hatch, right?
But you know what you can count on?!
An enticing newspaper ad, followed by an adorable picture on a breeders website. Oh boy. They got us good. Dan was born and raised with German Shepherds. To me, they are amazingly obedient, well-tempered and overall a great dog. Back in the day, until I learning about them more, they intimidated me. They can grow to be massive! On my five foot some odd inches frame, I feel like a tiny pup would suite my training skills in puppy land, not one that will power over me.
Hours after making a phone call we found ourselves in the car driving to our surprise destination. We did not tell the boys where we were going, we did not want to get their hopes up. Owen has been steadily growing out of many of his allergies, so checking dogs off the list was next. This was to be our meet and greet, a test to see if we should knock the dream of having a family dog off the list while we were at it. Disappointment is surely easier to handle when it comes in a steady stream 🙂
Many licks on the face and 30 minutes later we had a non-itchy owen and a massive 11 week old pup in our car for the ride home. Oh, I love when things happen this way. Just going with the flow, you only live once, in the moment decisions. We are well aware of what is to be ahead of us, we’ve had 3 beyond restless nights that have me foggy brained and sleepy. But this sweet boy has filled up our hearts already and we are so glad to introduce him to all of you!
Meet Duke!
His paws are huge. His temperament is as sweet as a button and his nights are full of pooping and peeing in his cage crying for his new mom and dad. I have gone through piles of paper towels and clorox wipes. Endless sanitizing of the floor. Rolled up expensive carpets and set them away, trading my home decor for my sanity. He already sits for us, has learned to use stairs and cuddles our shoulders when he is held. Though he may already be 1/2 my size when I hold him, I will squeeze up any chance I get before he ends up like his 125 pound dad! Wowzer.
What are we in for?!
The boys adore him. Taken back at times by his size at first when he was jumping on them. Thankfully, they quickly came to a halt. He learned so very quickly not to jump and has kept the kids giggling and excited to help take care of him (for now).
So happy that Owen is growing out of his allergies. Even more thrilled that our boys will be raised with animals around. Now we have another addition to our family that will be sure to be by our side for years to come.
I’ve always wanted a house packed to the brim!