And again, I heard something I hear frequently. "I think I'm glad I don't have more of them to choose from". Selecting just one pup from a litter is rarely an easy task. Selecting one of two generally not a whole lot easier. That process for Linell, seemed no exception.
At days end, I look back on an enjoyable afternoon and a feeling deep in my heart that my pup is heading to a home full of love and promise of a wonderful journey through life.
If it were any other way, I wouldn't be able to do what I do. I love dogs, all dogs, but most specifically my own and the pups created through them too much.
Linell spent quite a bit of time here, first playing with and watching the litter as a whole before I took the boys and reds in for rest so she could concentrate on the black and rust girls. It's good experience for the pups who at this point see me as mom, or at least the one that dispenses the food. Their loyalty is already beginning to develop and it's not uncommon for them, as a pack, to follow me wherever I go. But as you can see in the attached photos, it didn't take long for them to warm up to Linell and find a place of comfort on and around her lap. Lap dogs in the making!
Linell, took me up on the offer that was discussed on the litter page of bringing a gift for her chosen girl which will be opened on Christmas morning. As promised, for those who want to participate, I'll spend a little time with each pup Christmas morning and present them with their gifts. I don't like to leave anyone out, so I'll make a trip to town and pick up an inexpensive something to place under our tree for the pups that remain unselected. It may not carry the scent of their potential owner, but it will give me a chance to spend a little one on one quality time with each. For those of you coming after Christmas, you will have the chance to present your gift to your pup yourself, if you choose. We'll call it a late Christmas gift and they'll have a few days before heading home with you to enjoy it. These gifts will remain theirs to keep regardless of what shape they end up in. The more used the better probably.
A good chunk of the day though will be dedicated to my own kids. I guess it's out of the question to request snow from Santa, so in lieu of that I'm asking for a warm and sunny day allowing time and opportunity for a much needed photo shoot of my own. For many years, most frequently, being in healthcare I've worked on Christmas as well as many other holidays. A few years back I scheduled a Christmas off and dedicated the entire day to the abundance of animals here as well as a full blown traditional Christmas feast for myself. Looking back, it may have been one the the most enjoyable Christmas's I've ever had. I had props for photos with the horses, props and packages for the dogs and a special breakfast complete with fancy placemat and crystal bowl for my cat Titan. They are family after all. And they bring me great joy. It's good sometimes to dedicate some time and acknowledge them for all they are and do to enrich our lives.