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PUPPIES
On the way back up North, I met my friend, Catrina, at the Salmon River Mall, in Watertown, New York. We always began a day of shopping, in the Docktor Pet Shop, crooning over the adorable puppies on display. It was that day that I saw her. The most adorable puppy I had ever layed my eyes on. I didn't even know what breed she was. It was just love at first sight. I asked the store clerk if I could hold her just once. The store clerk agreed, took her out of her cage, and led me away to this small enclosed acquaintance room. The magical interaction between me and this puppy was just so awe inspiring. Though, I knew she must have cost an outrageous amount of money, I felt in my heart, that she belonged with me. I reluctantly gave her back to the store clerk and told her, "I may be back"! My friend and I continued on our journey through the mall, all the while conversing back and forth about the puppy, and whether or not I should take her home. Catrina, being somewhat a cautious spender, didn't make any effort to talk me out of it. By this time, I knew the price I would pay, and although it WAS an astronomical amount of money, it seemed a priceless transaction to incur. I didn't buy anything in the mall that day, until the end of our shopping spree, when we found ourselves back at the pet store. Within minutes, I had made probably THE MOST impulsive purchase of my life.
On the way home, I stopped at my parents' house to surprise them with our new family member. Dad was surprised, and yet, seemed ecstatic and giddy about the little fur ball running about the house. Mother, on the other hand, scolded me, just like she did that time I was 14 years old and brought a beagle home, from the local animal shelter. She pretended not to like the new puppy, and immediately retreated to the kitchen to glare out the window, I'm guessing. It would take a little time, but I knew eventually, mother would warm up to her, and welcome her like she would a new grandchild.
Alex was just as happy to see her when he came home from vacation. For him, it was like having a brand new, live-in playmate. For me, it was like having that 2nd child that I was never blessed with.
Today, Tessa is a happy and healthy, energetic and protective, obedient and loyal 2 1/2 year old, without the stigma of those "terrible two's", that toddlers often exhibit. She is my strength when I feel weak, my happiness when I feel sad, and my calm when I feel stressed. She's a friend, a companion, a playmate, and a protector.
