Early Birthday Present

Several months ago, we decided that we were going to get Alex a dog for his birthday this year.  Knowing it might take a while to find what we wanted (a young dog that doesn't shed much), we started looking last Thursday.  Much to our surprise, within an hour, we were contacted by someone local that couldn't keep her puppy.  She was heartbroken, but said we looked like a nice family so she wanted to offer him to us.  We made the arrangements and kept our secret.

The following day, Alex finished reading Where the Red Fern Grows, and was aching for a dog.  That evening, we told the kids we were going on a date to watch A Dog's Way Home (we think we're so clever... ha ha!).  They stayed home watching Where the Red Fern Grows.  We really went to pick up the puppy.

When we arrived home, I told Alex that we had a little surprise for him, and I recorded his reaction.

This little dog, named Maui, is a toy yorkie and is 8 months old.  He's been a very sweet little thing so far.

The kids have been having so much fun with him this week.

Jim installed a doggie door on Saturday and Maui has already learned to go in and out of it.  He's been marking his territory inside still, so we're working on that, but otherwise he is doing pretty well about going potty outside.

Jim's been enjoying puppy cuddles every evening.