It’s been another long day for me but I’m doing okay. I didn’t accomplish anything today but I’m not going to beat myself up. I took a long nap today, which was desperately needed, so there’s that I suppose. A bit of selfcare.

Yesterday, the boys and I drove to Toledo Ohio to pick up a dog that needed a new home. I’ve been thinking about doing this for a little while, but haven’t. We miss Maggie tremendously and while we love Ruby, it’s just not the same as having a big dog. I felt like it was time and while we can never replace Maggie, I do know what we were looking for. I was lucky enough to find it.

We drove five hours, round trip, to bring this guy home, and it was absolutely worth it.

I took the boys to the humane society but we couldn’t find a good match. There’s not much known about their history, and almost every single option was not good with kids, other dogs, or cats.

I stumbled across an ad while searching and I reached out. I didn’t think I would hear back because I assumed he would have found a home right away. Thankfully, he was still available and after some discussion, we made plans to make the drive the following day.

The family we got him from is amazing. It was so obvious that he was loved and will be deeply missed. Rehoming a pet is never easy, especially when it’s the last thing you want to do. I’m so grateful everything worked out and we were able to bring him home.

His name is Vader, but I’m thinking about changing it. I’ve been reading a lot about it and it seems to actually be recommended because it makes their transition easier. If they have a history of trauma, changing their name will help them heal because they are no longer hearing the name associated with that trauma. The family we met loved him, and took very good care of him. He has a few triggers and things that cause him anxiety. These things stem from his life prior to them rescuing him from his previous owner.

He’s a purebred American Bully who bares a striking resemblance to Maggie. Vader is significantly bigger though, and male.

He’s absolutely a gentle giant. Gets along great with Ruby and Ruby gets along great with him. He’s curious about the cats but doesn’t have much interest in them. He absolutely loves his frisbee and I’m going to buy these in bulk because he chews right through them. Lol

He just turned four last week, is completely house broken, and so well behaved. He fits right in, and I feel so lucky that everything worked out.

The kids are thrilled, and honestly, I think he’s exaclty what we needed.

I’m exhausted and heading to bed. It feels so good having a big dog around once again. I know I have a lot of work ahead me, but I’m going to keep pushing until I get there.

Life isn’t supposed to be easy, and lord knows I know all about the challenge.

For right now, I’m enjoying seeing the kids smile have a gentle giant in their lives once again. ☺