Sometimes when I get something in my head that I really, really want, I can’t stop thinking about it. Whether it’s something that I want to accomplish, a goal that I want to reach, or something physical that I need to have in my possession, it resides in my mind and I can’t let it go until whatever it is has been accomplished or gotten. This trait can be both good and bad. On the positive side, I am extremely intrinsically motivated to accomplish goals. I am perfect in an athlete/coach situation and can put all else aside in order to focus to succeed. This part of me has especially fared well in my running career which has brought me much success in the past. But, the negative side is when something runs in my brain and I can’t stop thinking about it. Downtime at home is consumed with research and planning. Notebooks get filled and lists get checked off. Being a planner and detail oriented, everything is in order and in place.
I have been wanting a puppy for ages.
SO — the fact that J finally caved and is on board with us welcoming a new furry friend to our brood this summer is big. Huge, in fact. We have been talking about it for a few years now and he always said no dog. All five kids and I have relentlessly came up with reasons why we needed one in our home. And, Santa even brought it toys for Christmas this past year because every dog needs toys shaped like wine and champagne bottles, right?
Thinking back, he was right. It wasn’t a good time to get a dog for us. We weren’t on a consistent routine of all being together, and he didn’t want the sole responsibility of taking care of it when I was at my house. Another positive factor are my parents. They are more than willing to be babysitters whenever we go away. In fact, my mom has eluded to the fact that she wants to have puppy sleepovers so she can spend quality time with our new fur baby.
In fact there may have been a time when my mom and I felt so bad for a puppy at a pet store (I know!) that we were going to adopt him together! Be joint parents. J and my dad shot that idea down immediately. We still wonder where cute little Cooper is today and hope that he has a warm and loving home.
What kind?
After much research and knowing what I like, I want a small dog that’s tan in color. I want it to be a non-shedding dog and hypoallergenic. I know that no dog is entirely hypoallergenic, but we want to be as close as you get so that means something with a poodle mix.
My top three breeds are the Cavapoo (a cross between a King Charles Cavalier and a poodle), the Havanese (pure bred dog that originated in Cuba), or a Maltepoo (a cross between a Maltese and a poodle).
Cavapoo
Tan Havanese (cut short)
Maltepoo
As you can see, all three are very similar. The Havanese can be left with their long locks, or cut short for a more friendly grooming routine (which I prefer).
Where will he or she come from?
I am in the process of major research right now. I have my name in several Havanese rescues as well as breeders for all three. My ideal puppy would be one a little older (6-8 months), but I would get one at 8-10 weeks if it were the right one.
I have found that there aren’t really defined rescues for the poos’ since they are a cross-breed, but my mind is open.
What is the timing?
If all of the cards play out the way I want them to, my wish would be to have the puppy come to us in June, right in the beginning of summer. That way, I will be home for two months to spend with it before returning to school. J works from home, so he will be home most days to let it out when needed.
Honestly, I think that J and my friends think that I have officially lost my mind. Between the home office/foyer renovation and the dog, I can’t think of anything else. I tell them that I can’t wait to snuggle with it and carry it all around. It will go everywhere with me (maybe even in a purse — which got a big thumbs down from my family, but I don’t really care.)
My mom is also very busy looking for possible puppies and regularly sends me pictures of cuties during the day, so it’s a win-win all around.
All in all, when I said that 2020 was going to be my year, which is off to an amazing start by the way, this little guy or girl will be a huge part in what lies ahead and I can’t wait.
If you have any suggestions, comments or tips….please send them my way! xo
Comments