Beau…

If you’ve read my blog very long, then you know I love dogs.  I’ve wanted a puppy for so long!  When my sweet husband asked me what I wanted for my birthday on December 1, the answer was easy.  Granted, this was a “big” birthday – 75!  He was probably expecting me to say jewelry.  (Where would I wear jewelry anyway?  We’re in the midst of a pandemic!)  But I did not want diamonds or rubies or pearls.  I wanted a living, breathing, four-legged, furry puppy!  When he readily agreed, I didn’t think he was serious.  When I realized he truly was in earnest, there was joy!

Now, the question was what breed?  I love big dogs but let’s face it – at this age, I couldn’t manage a big dog.  I don’t remember exactly how we settled on an American Cocker Spaniel.  I think there were photos from the breeder on Facebook.  We loved the photos of one in particular, a buff and white floppy eared little boy with striking blue eyes.

On the Monday following my birthday, we drove as far north as you can go in Iowa before you get to Minnesota or South Dakota!  We were all wearing masks and met outside.  The first minute we saw Beau, we fell in love – both of us!  I don’t think Doug was counting on loving this puppy as much as I do but he does.

There is one member of the family who isn’t too sure of this adorable new addition.  Our six year old rescued gray tabby.  We’ve had him for four years and he thought he had sole possession of Mom and Dad.  Beau is loudly exuberant and follows Tiger everywhere.  He literally runs and tackles him.  In the beginning, I think Tiger was patiently waiting for this little visitor to go home.  By now, he realizes Beau is at home and Tiger isn’t too sure how he feels about that.  In the beginning, Tiger refrained from batting back at Beau or retaliating for all that puppy energy.  Tiger is now play-batting at him (thankfully, he’s declawed).  I’m hoping that, eventually, they will be friends.

Beau looks so cute in his Iowa shirt!  Gift from Justin and Mandy and family.