Monday, October 17, 2011

The Phipps Six

A couple of years ago at dinner, Gavin announced, "One day there's going to be six of us."  Cody and I both caught our breath, lest his words be prophetic.  We certainly weren't planning on expanding our family!

But today his words came true (at least in his mind).  We are now the Phipps Six.  Maximus Braveheart the Bruce Phipps came home last night!  We are all in love.

Is he not one of the most handsome little guys you've ever seen?

Hannah has been asking for a dog for years.  Our excuse for a long time was that she had to wait until Ben was at least three because we couldn't handle a puppy and a toddler.  Then he turned three. . . and we dog sat our friends' dog, Preacher (see the March 7 post). . . and we returned to America. . . and Hannah started doing serious research. . .

So here we are.  We looked into a lot of breeds and decided the labradoodle was probably one of the best options for our family.  There was a great breeder located here in Orlando, who we met back in August.  After one trip to her house, Cody was sold (who knew he was such a softie toward pups!).  We reserved a newborn puppy, and yesterday he was old enough to come home.

After years of wanting a dog, Hannah was beside herself in anticipation of Cody coming out with Max.  I think she's still in shock he's actually ours.

It's been five weeks since we last saw him, and he's almost tripled in size.  At the vet today, he weighed in at 11 pounds.  He'll probably grow to 60.

Coming up the steps to our apartment for the first time.

Savoring a few minutes before having to leave Max behind for school.

Now I know I'm a proud Mommy, but I really do think he's the very best puppy in the whole entire world.  He let the kids love on him until we made them go to bed.  He walked right into his crate last night and slept like a dream.  We woke him up once to go the bathroom and didn't hear a peep until we got up in the morning.  He's picked up walking a leash and has done great with house training so far.  And he's just so darn sweet!

Really, really fun.  In the midst of so many changes for our family, looking forward to Max's arrival has been a sweet blessing.  I'm sure there will be many more pictures to come!

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