A kid needs a dog...

... but so do I!  I need this dog.  This photo was taken  

at the Oregon Coast, near Lincoln City, on our trip out there four years ago.  We couldn't bear to leave her with someone, so we drove to Oregon with her. And since we hadn't arranged in advance for "pet-friendly" beach house, Bob slept most nights in the car, with Precious.    That's how it's been, pretty much ever since Lacey borrowed her from the animal shelter, brought her to my class (while I was teaching) and begged, "Mom, please, can we keep her?" Lacey explains that she fell in love with this 10 lb. cockapoo when she first laid eyes on her, and it was reciprocal.  Well, I fell in love with her, too.  And it is absolutely killing me to be without her in Virginia. 

Christmas with Precious 2009

I miss my kids -- each one of them, but especially Lacey & Paul, who were living at home.  I miss Paul's cheerful presence and that he loves having me cook for him.  I miss Lacey's cozy company, and her adorable modeling of a fuzzy pink robe with little lambs all over it (and her pajamas with feet in them). But, I know my kids are living their lives and making their ways in the world, and being adults.  
     Precious (Lacey named her -- and how can you not love a dog named Precious?) -- on the other hand, couldn't come with us to Virginia, and certainly couldn't make her own way in the world. Fortunate for us, the Cannon Family, who rented our house and made it possible for us to rent a house here... graciously suggested that they take care of Precious, along with their two beloved cats.  (I love people who know what it means to love a creature!  I think we are all kindred spirits).  The Cannons have made Precious so happy...  particularly Lara, to whom Precious has become very attached.  But...  the Cannons are now making their way in their  world, and moving to Oregon.  What to do... what to do? 

Thank you, Mom & Dad (Grandma & Grandpa), for being willing to change your lives all around and make room for our little Precious at your house!  This is the best gift you could ever give me...  I know it will take sacrifice, and that you will worry and fret, and change all of your plans for her.  I know it is a huge responsibility -- the twice-daily walks, and the fact that she thinks she's a person, and doesn't like to be alone.  What I hope is that you will fall in love with her, too, quickly.  I know she's already fond of you both, and has loved her visits to your house.  We've noticed that she already has an attachment to both of you.  We will hurry home (as fast as April will get here!), and then we'll be reunited, and fade into the sunset...  (or something like that).  I just know that my love for you was already boundless, and by taking in "our best friend," you have once again endeared yourselves to us.  To me.  Thank you!