In our family, we never seem to do anything small or conservatively. It seems we commit and jump and then figure it out as we go.
Our latest adventure will begin in about 3 1/2 weeks – we are getting a puppy. And not just any puppy; we are getting a great dane!
We chose a female. She’s now 4 1/2 weeks old and we will get her at 8 weeks old.
Our family has been having fun naming her. We have 3 sheets of paper on the refrigerator door. All family members have been writing possible names and if anyone dislikes a name, they are free to cross it off. We have some fun ideas such as Mr. Shickadance, Pinkerton, Mondinga, Grubblyplank, Fortinbras, Aberforth, and Spot; some traditional girl names such as Molly, Cally, Susie, Violet and Andie; some ideas with meaning to someone 
in the family such as Picassa, Piper and Monet. Although I wasn’t serious about naming the dog this, I thought I made up a hilarious name: Dawg E. My kids insist, “That is NOT funny, Mom. It’s not funny!” It’s a family joke that I try to be funny and nobody thinks I am. Apparently what’s funny is me trying to be funny.
These are the latest photos of our puppy, taken about one week ago. We are not settled on a name, but we’re getting ready for her – reading dog and puppy training books, gathering dog items, puppy proofing the house.
I keep wondering if having a dog will produce new art inspirations. Stay tuned.