Bundles of Joy :o)

Well, after 4 years of waiting, saving and researching, I finally found both the breed and the breeder I wanted. My little 'Ember' is a Toy Poodle- she's finally home with me. She is as red as my hair. We drove up to get her and the breeder really liked us. When she saw that my oldest daughter had fallen in love with an Apricot colored pup, she basically gave us a second Poodle pup that day saying "pay as you are able". So YES, we have two pups running around the house and they are WONDERFUL!!! People can scoff all they want about little dogs, (which is rude to do in front of an enthusiastic owner) but they really are awesome! These dogs are super smart, very quiet, portable and cuddly. Pays to do research though- not all breeders are ethical and even some Poodles are wimpy, unhealthy yappers.

In the midst of all our trials, there have been some bright spots. Being involved with the musical last winter was great. Watching my adorable little 'neice' Emma last summer was fun. She's so cute! I had to stop watching her when my work schedule got busier. Now these little dogs are pure comic relief.

I have observed on more than one occasion how judgemental people can be toward those who struggle financially. Often rich people just cannot relate to those less fortunate and can be pretty harsh. A comment was made, "Why on earth do you spend money on things that are not neccessities?" To which I must ask, do we not deserve any joys in life? Our children are eating and well clothed. We do a lot to 'pay it forward' and help others, so why do people begrudge us the few small pleasures we do allow ourselves? I'm a Sanguine/Melancholy personality. I'm not afraid to pull my share of the load- I can work hard. But to me, life should be largely about building relationships, having fun and spending time with friends- I hate conflict and want everyone to get along. I'm not difficult to please- as simple things delight me. Love to spend time in my barn, with my kids and pets. I find great pleasure sitting at my piano and writing music- although recently life has frozen my creative vein in that respect. I may never be rich, but I do know how to have fun- owning pets is one way.

I want to say there have been some people this past 3 years who have reached out to us and I greatly appreciate them. My friend Kim and her family, Pastor Jerry, my blog friends. There have been some awkward attempts by some, but I do appreciate the gestures. At times I am guilty of allowing my pain to overshadow my blessings. There are many people out there who have worse to deal with. I am trying with everything I've got to find my joy again.

As I type this, Ember is laying in my lap, curled in a tiny little ball. She is so soft and warm. She melts me. I really needed this. The great thing about dogs is that no matter how badly other people may treat you, no matter what things go wrong or how your dreams may be broken, you are still a hero to them- it's reassuring. People can be fickle, friendships come and go, but a dog- now there's a loyal friend!