Here she is. She was actually supposed to be a male mut--the dog I had originally fallen in love with at the animal shelter. But when my sister came along with me to pick up the dog, she decided she liked this puppy instead. She's just as adorable and easy to love. We named her Ginger.
We got it for my brother as a birthday gift (hence the red ribbon). He was shocked, excited and thrilled when he saw her. We had dogs we dearly loved and cherished when we were growing up and missed having "man's best friend" by our side. My sister and I knew that the responsibility of owning a pet would be like taking care of a child. We thought we were ready, but after 24 hours with Ginger, we realized it was too great of a commitment for us at this point in our lives. So the next morning, we regretfully took her back. I was heartbroken. She had slept in my arms the entire night before, and I just wasn't ready to say goodbye. And I couldn't bear the thought of placing her back in a cage at the shelter. But I know it was the right thing to do, and she'll have no problem finding a better home.
But I still miss her very much.