It's a dog's life loving you baby! -Sting; Brand New Day

In High School, an acquaintance's dog died and I had the stupidity to ask why that was such a big deal. "Its just a dog," I callously remarked. That sums up how I felt about dogs. I do not consider myself a dog person so I find myself in an interesting predicament when I announce the newest member of our family: Jango, a 6-week-old Boxer. We have debated and planned for this even for 2 1/2 years but 2 events catapulted us into it's eventuality: 1) my son Grant is turning 8 and has asked for a dog for the past 4 gift giving events (birthdays and Christmas), and 2) my son Jack was bitten recently by a dog.
My reasons against a dog: They shed, they're smelly, they bite and chew (things and sons), they cost $, I'd have one more soul to care for and have to make arrangements for when we're out of town, they pee & poop.. Did I mention their smell? Yep, why put myself through all that?
Reasons for a dog: Jack needed help getting over his fear of some dogs. Some dogs he will always fear and rightly so, but we really want him to have the chance to see the 'supposedly' good side of man's best friend. Our children wanted one and since I'm in the habit of giving my children whatever their little hearts desire (read sarcasm in that last part) it just fits. I believe in a healthy respect for God's creatures and children should learn to care for and have responsibility for something that has consequences of its own when neglected. And when I think about the experiences of my acquaintance with his dog and the learning process of loving, caring and eventually losing his dog, I want my family to share that experience. (This might mean that Jack or Grant will be on their missions when Jango dies).
So here we go, we're a dog family. Can't wait to see what Dogs are all about. So far, one day at a time, we are loving him. This morning after walking to the bus stop, Jango was shivering so I tucked him in with Mackay for the ride home. Both seemed happy and it made a great photo opportunity.
(side note: if all creatures are meant to 'fill the measure of their creation' are we cruel to have Jango fixed without the opportunity to become a Poppa?)

Meet Judy, and then say goodbye.

My local grocery store is closing down. After being a part of the neighborhood for 26 years, the Bashas around the corner is closing its doors because it competitive enough. Bashas is a local store in Arizona, started by a local family 75 years ago. It is a great example of how capitalism really should work and even though there are other branches that are still open, we are sad to see ours close.
Judy has worked there for as long as I have shopped there. She is always cheerful and happy while she does her job. Don't you love people who can do their job, even seemingly mundane jobs, and still be happy. I am always impressed with that attitude about life. I resolve when I go through her line that if she is happy while working, that I can be happy because I get to stay home with my kids. (But I need that reminder often, so what will I do without her?)
Do not despair. Judy and several of her co-workers will be going to another store. Judy informed me that she will be working in Fountain Hills. Its not closer to her home she says, but she loves the city and has always wanted to wrok there. How cool for her. Good-bye Judy and good-bye to our Bashas.
BTW, if your in the neighborhood, I put up a Thank You poster by the door, sign it and tell them how you feel.