Thursday, December 20, 2007

Today is my Gotcha Day!

1 year ago today (at around 3:00pm, EST) I was found by my mama. I'm going to do something a little different today, and let my mama tell you all the story of my homecoming...

Last year, on December 20, I woke up and announced to Nathan (Sparky's Pop) that I would be getting a dog that day. We had had the discussion for about a year, and I was always shot down - but that day I was not taking no for an answer. That day began a 10 day vacation from work, so I had the time to spend with a new dog to get them accimated into our world. Of course, Nathan did not believe that I would be so bold.

I had no idea what kind of dog I wanted, except that I did want a puppy - - I just sort of felt that the dog would pick me and not the other way around. I visited the local animal shelter and played with a couple of the dogs there (not puppies), but none of them felt right. I spoke with the staff at the shelter and they explained that there was a waiting list for puppies, and that they don't receive them often. After careful consideration, I made my way to one of the pet stores. (I have gotten some negative feedback from some about purchasing a dog through a pet store, but that is a choice I made that worked for us.)

I peaked inside the kennels and this little black dog with soulful eyes peered back at me. I immediately knew that I had to visit with him. This puppy was the most hugable dog I have ever had the pleasure to meet. He kissed my cheek and nuzzled into my neck, and when I put him down he immediately wanted to be picked up again. His birthday is September 29 - which is the anniversary of Nathan and my first date! I knew right then that I would be walking out with this dog!

After the paperwork was completed, and I was several hundred dollars lighter, the little black dog and I walked out through the mall to my car in the parking lot. Of course, we stopped for every person who asked if they could pet him, and like a champ the puppy allowed it and welcomed it! Since our home was ill-equiped for an animal, I stopped by my sister's house and had her dog sit, while I did a little shopping. She and her children were thrilled that I had gotten a dog and were happy to play and cuddle our new addition.

I stocked up on food, treats, bowls, bedding, a kennel, collars and leashes and toys of all kinds - all before calling Nathan to tell him what I was coming home with! When I finally got around to telling him, he didn't believe me. We made plans to meet for dinner at a restaurant, but before I left I took a picture of our new baby, so he would know that I was not joking.


This is the shot I showed him during dinner...and have never looked back. Our little black dog was officially named two weeks later. (Yes, it took us that long!) Sparky gave unconditional love from DAY ONE. I can not imagine life without our little fellow.

Thanks Mama!!!

11 comments:

Lizzy said...

Happy Gotcha Day, Sparky! That was a sweet story. I'm glad you live with the people you do now!

Sparky

Molly the Airedale said...

We're wiping away tears! This was destiny, Sparky! You and your mom and dad are connected forever and ever! Happy gotcha day! What an awesome story!

Love ya lots,
Maggie and Mitch

Bella the Boxer said...

Happy Gotcha Day!

xoxo - Bella

Comet said...

Happy gotcha day, Sparky! You were so cute as a puppy (and still are!) Tell your mom not to feel bad for taking two weeks to name you. Our girl took longer than that to name Comet.

We got your card today. You and Patches look so dapper in your Christmas collars.

Amber-Mae said...

Awww, what a sweet post this is! I'm glad Sparky adopted you guys...You guys were meant to be!

Love licks,
Solid Gold Dancer

Jen and Suki said...

Oh boy, happy Gotcha Day! You sure make an adorable puppy and handsome grown fella! My mom sort of did something similar to my dad - she called him at work on Thursday and said to him "we're going to go pick up a pug puppy on Saturday!" She chose work because that way he couldn't be mad! And he wasn't once he met me - we're best buds now.

I'm so glad your mom got you. You two were meant to be!

Stanley said...

Sparkster!!

I'm so glad you adopted your parents, buddy! Congratulations on your gotcha day. You all made each other's lives complete. What's your dad thinking about you now, huh??? Bet he LOVES you.

Goober love & anniversary smooches,
Stanley

Lady Kaos said...

awwwww, what a great story!!!! It took about a week for Mom and Dad to come up with my new name when they adopted me.
Merry Christmas & congrats on your gotcha day!!
Kaos

The Boys said...

Happy Gotcha day Sparkster!

Puggle Preston said...

Hello! Sparky and Patches,
That is a wonderful story. My mommy and I enjoyed reading it. Good things happen during the holiday seasons! This was definitely one of them!

Licks,
Presotn

Lacy said...

woofies Sparky and Patches!!! ahhh sparky u wuz sooo cute how cood u daddy not want u....me sooo happies u found ur furever home...

b safe,
;)lacylulu