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Wednesday, January 11, 2012

My Secret

Introducing...
Henry Franklin Longfellow
Yes, I've had a secret. I posted about this little fellow and how I'd thought about going to get him.
But I didn't tell you that I ended up doing just that....going and getting him, a week ago last Wednesday.
Caution - this is a Puppy Heavy Photo post....he he...
The night before New Year's Eve...I just had a feeling that I should look on Petfinder; that the boy 
that needed me was waiting there for me.

So I looked and there this little guy was.
I sent in an application and email and went to bed.
I was very apprehensive about taking on another.
But I just felt like I wasn't moving forward in my life...I was still mourning Newman, so.
That next morning...Violet woke with her back bothering her and I thought...no...it is not meant to be.
I need to focus on Violet.
But Violet was better the next day.
I actually think she gets cricks in her neck. The vet does too rather than actual back problem.
Debbie, the lady who had found little Franklin (or Tex as she called him) had written me 
and said she'd love for me to meet him
and that he was very very sweet and snuggly and only 10 months old.

If I did not want him he was going on a transport van to Colorado to go into rescue up there that coming weekend.
I couldn't bare the thought of this little one being scared on a van with other dogs after all he'd been through.
Debbie had found him running down a busy road in Yukon, Oklahoma.
They both almost got run over when she tried to save him.
He still smelled of a lady's perfume and his feet were soft. 
He had not been out long.
Debbie tried to find his owner and no one came forward.
So he got fixed and shots and Debbie took him home to add to her Boston Terrier Rescue.
She'd posted him on Petfinder and that is where I found him.

I decided to meet Debbie at a local Petsmart to see if I liked him.
Well, I saw him two seconds and knew he was the one. 
He snuggled right up against my neck.
Although he kept looking at Debbie...like "I'm not sure...don't leave me".
An hour later, little Henry Franklin Longfellow was home with me and within about another 
hour...I think he'd just about totally forgotten his previous life.
Sally and Violet were absolutely fine with the new addition.
But Harvey who was a big reason why I had gotten him...did not like this one bit.
Harvey always likes any dog that comes by to visit especially puppies.
He'd struggled so much after Newman's death and was finally doing much better but he had no one to play with.
I thought Franklin would be the perfect answer to the problem.
Being that he is 10 months old...he's not too rambunctious.
But Harvey wanted none of it.
He would not look at me or wag his tail for days.
When it came time for Harvey to go to bed; I had to force him to get in his usual spot.
He was clearly upset.
This broke my heart.
But as of a couple of days ago...Harvey is wagging his tail again.
He seems interested in the little guy...but still not thrilled that he is here.
He has snapped at Franklin several times.
Never making contact but Franklin got the message and switched his playing advances to Sally.
Sally is constantly running from him but Franklin thinks she is playing.
Sally has been very very tolerant. 
She was the one I was a little worried about and turns out she is very good with him.
I think Harvey is just still missing Newman and does not want another to take his place.
I totally understand.
I think in time they will become great friends.
It seems like Franklin has been with me his entire life. 
He follows me everywhere and learned his name in like five minutes.
Even one night when I was crying about Shelly...he came and jumped in my lap to see what was wrong.
Very attentive for a young dog.
Isn't that a cute freckled face?
His hair is as soft as a bunny. Just unbelievably soft.
His hair will grow a lot more in the year to come.
That is how long Violet's hair was when she was one year old. 
He will be a beautiful boy.
He already is a beautiful boy.
He came in the house and ran right up the ramp into the bed.
So he must have had one at his previous home.
I feel so bad for whoever lost him.
I'm sure they have cried and cried over him.
I really had to work to get these photos of him...he wanted to jump all over the bed and play.
But if I whistled at him...he'd stop and look at me.
I didn't know that Sally was in the bed...and he was pouncing all over her! She eventually came out.
And joined the photo shoot...but she was not at her best. 
Her ears weren't even fixed!
It was cloudy out...so I didn't get quite as clear of pictures as I would have liked.
But you'll be seeing lots of him, here in the future.
Nothing heals wounds like a new puppy.
The night I got him I felt so much better about everything.
Like...finally I was moving forward in my life and not still mourning the losses of the last six months.
I knew all my readers would be excited to see my new family addition.
Amy of Maison Decor even sent me money to help pay for him.
She's a great friend and had been encouraging me to get a puppy for several months.
He truly is a blog dog now. 
His adoption fee was only $100 and he'd had his shots and had been neutered.
He's already housebroken.
This could not have worked out any better.
Well, I wish Harvey was happier about it.
But I think he will get there.
See how long he is...and how pretty his coloring is?
He is really a dear. He loves to be held and he loves to be kissed on the cheek.
Something Newman adored. 
He really seems meant to be.
Like something told me to look on Petfinder that night and there he was.
This is a terrible photo...taken in very low light.
But they were all sleeping together on the dog bed at my feet under the desk as I wrote this post.
Yes, I'd say it is going very very well.
sharing at

76 comments:

Amanda said...

Oh, they are all so beautiful!

Cindi Myers said...

OK, I'm in love.
and YES! It was truly meant to be.
:)
I'm so Happy for you BOTH!
It's Wonderful that you found each other!
I'm looking forward to this year of puppy posts! LOL!
XOXO - Cindi

Katie @ Wildwood Creek said...

Adorable pics! Love the last one with all of them cuddled together. Truly, happiness is a warm puppy. I'm so happy for you, Nita!

Adam Hazlett said...

Nita,
You made me smile reading this post!
I am very happy for you! And what a great name!!! Longfellow, just fits him. Can't wait to hear the song that goes with his name.
It must be kismet, he is perfect for your family!

Cameo said...

Love,....I found your blog three weeks ago over the holidays and have checked in every day. I adore every inch of you, your furry friends, and your creativity. I had to finally post this evening to say,......I am wild about Henry Franklin Longfellow and truly believe that you were destined to find him!!!! Harvey and Henry will become best friends~ Harvey is just being persnickety about the new arrival. ....and by george,....he has every right!!!! Henry is absolutely charming and will be such a delightful addition to your family. Happy New Year my love, you are going to enjoy this new family member. Please keep us posted in terms of Henry settling in.....He will be ~*so very happy*~ with you and his new brothers and sisters......I just know these things!!!
OXOX to you ALL!!!
CAMEO

Lisa said...

Congrats on your new baby. I am so very happy for you.
Hugs to you and all of your sweeties,
Lisa

Amy Chalmers said...

Oh I just got goosebumps from the last photo!!! I LOVE Franklin!!! He is adorable and I am so glad he has a loving home with a mom and brothers and sisters. What a great way to start the year!

Unknown said...

Oh Nita I am so thrilled for you, Franklin and the Weanies! I love the picture with all of them on the same bed:) Happy New Year to all of you and keep us posted~Penny

sharon said...

Nita, I am delighted for you - and for Mr. Longfellow (aptly named, isn't he?). I am amazed to see them all snuggled together, comfortable with each other and carefree....you did a wonderful thing by adopting him into your home. Blessings to all.

Crystal Rose Cottage said...

Oh Nita, I am so so happy for you and for your new little boy! He is just a little lovebug! Looking forward to lots of kodak moments!~Hugs, Patti

Sonia said...

Oh how sweet is he!!! Love the picture of them all snuggled together!
Miss Bloomers

Deneen@dreaming-n-color said...

oh I love his face! We got a new baby too! Congratulations!

LuvWheaties said...

Congratulations on your new puppy. Love the name Franklin, and it seems perfect for him. The last photo of all four of them lying together is very heartwarming. I think they will be just fine!

Stacey said...

Nita, I'm so glad you got him! He's just adorable and looks right at home there. Your other dogs will get used to him and soon it will be like he's been around forever. I love, love the name you chose for him. It fits him well. :)

Ann from On Sutton Place said...

You are starting to sound like your old self. A little bit of pep in your voice and in your heart. I'm so glad you adopted this new little guy. He's adorable and it was meant to be. It was in the plan all along...also thank you so much for featuring my link from your party last week. It was quite a thrill to open up your blog and see my chair!

A Whole Lotta Magic said...

I`m so happy for you, Nita!

They are ALL gorgeous!

S
xo

vintage girl at heart said...

Aweee what a cute fellow!
Some things are just meant to be and you being his Mama is one of them.
Congrats!!

Teresa@1800 Farmhouse Rd said...

I am so happy that you were able to open up you vulnerable heart to another after the loss of your Newman. That Franklin is a lucky young fellow, and I bet he knows it already. But I'm with ya on the previous owner thing, I would be crazy if I lost Sophie and couldn't find her and didn't know if she was ok or not. Anyhoo, congrats to you and your new baby, and all of his brothers and sisters!

Patty said...

Nita,
He is just adorable...it was meant to be!! So happy you were able to get him, and can't wait to hear more about him. xoxo

Razmataz said...

he's lovely....just lovely.

An Urban Cottage said...

Nita,
It's a boy! Congratulations on your new baby! He's so cute and I just love that last photo of all the dogs sleeping together. SO SWEET!

Anonymous said...

I'm so happy for you! When you showed the picture I was hoping you'd get him. He's just darling.

Carole

Brenda Pruitt said...

He's absolutely adorable! And what a wonderful thing for Amy to do. Aren't blog friends divine? I'm so happy for you and this sweet boy.
Brenda

Betty said...

Congratulations Nita, Franklin is such a sweetie!

Bring Pretty Back said...

Welcome Franklin!! This is wonderful news!!!
Congratulations!
Have a pretty day!
Kristin

Pink said...

He's beautiful ... Congrats on your new addition.

Deserae said...

He is such a cutie pie!!! I'm so glad everyone is adjusting well...they look so cute all cuddled together on the bed :o) Congratulations on your new little fur baby!!!!
~Des

Bonnie@ The Hopeless Romantic said...

Henry Franklin is adorable, and i think he's found his forever home............it's really good to see u all so happy together, im sure Newman is smiling in approval.................Bonnie

Debra@CommonGround said...

I knew this was just what you needed! I'm so glad, Nita. He's adorable! Love the photo of them all sleeping together!

Jennifer @ Town and Country Living said...

Awww, what a great story. You were wonderful to adopt him. I love the photo of all of them in bed together! What a hoot!

Vickie H. said...

Sweet, beautiful boy! Welcome home!!!

Annette T. said...

I agree, as much as we miss the one we've lost, a new puppy is so wonderful. The picture of them all snuggled together is priceless! I'm so happy for you. Annette T

LeAnn said...

He is awesome, what a cutie! I am sooo happy for you Nita.

xo

Shannon Fox said...

...after our email, I just knew you were going to get him ;) He could not have a better momma! I am so happy for you Nita. I hope he can help ease the loss of your precious Newman. Hugs! Shannon

Ames said...

Oh Nita is is adorable. It looks like one big happy family. You are such a kind hearted person to take on another dog. And that he was a rescue dog makes it even better!~Ames

Sharon Rexroad's Bringing Creativity 2 Life said...

I think he adopted you! Can't you just imagine a "my person finder" where dogs and cats can look for the perfect owner? Well, this little guy put in all his pie-in-the-sky wishes and found YOU!

Claudia said...

I'm so happy for you, Nita, and for your sweet new puppy!

xo
Claudia

Carol@6WilsonBlog.com said...

Oh Nita, he couldn't have found a better new mom. I'm happy for your! There is nothing like the love of and for a dog. He is just beautiful. The pictures are great. I wish you all good blessings with him.

Lisa ~Suburban Retreat~ said...

Dear Nita, I absolutely LOVE the story you've shared today and congratulations on your newest family member. He couldn't have ended up in a better home! xox

Linda Hartong said...

He is precious and will make a great addition to your household. When we introduced a new puppy to our old doy she would have nothing to do with him. Now he has become her caregiver. If she needs to go out or eat , he runs to get me and won't give up until I help here.

PAINTORDIG.blogspot.com said...

I am so happy for you and Franklin! It was meant to be for sure, he now has a forever home with someone who loves him.

Ricki Treleaven said...

:D I am so happy for you and your other pups, too! Franklins is so handsome. I think his coloring is so unusual! I know Harvey will come around soon. They all look cozy together on the dog bed.

I think it is so great that you adopted Franklin. He needed you, and I think it was meant to be that you found him.

Give him a hug from me!
xoxoxoox,
Ricki Jill

Lynn said...

So happy for you! Franklin is absolutely adorable. Love, love, love his coloring. He looks like he fits in quite nicely with your family. Congratulations.

Anonymous said...

What a heartwarming "tale"! So happy for you & for Franklin. Rescued dogs are the best... they just continually show how grateful they are and they're loyalty is unwavering. Best to you & your pups!

Leigh

Syndi @ Beachnut Lane said...

Hi Nita, I also am a Doxie Mom, I have 2 minis named Scooterpie & Gingersnap (you can't have just one dachshund!). Your new boy is so beautiful! I too am thinking about getting a rescue, but I am worried about the other dogs' reactions. It is good to hear of your experience introducing a new member into the family.

Becky said...

i have a dapple doxie too.. he is my baby.. 2 days after Christmas he started acting strange and having trouble walking. Turns out he has IVDD, which is very common in that breed.. He is the best dog i have ever had so I'm just going to love him thru it...
best of luck with your new baby... he is so very prettiful...

"Create Beauty" said...

Congratulations on your new addition!!! He is so adorable, what a sweet face, such a darling puppy!!!! Nothing helps as much as a new puppy to love after losing a dog.... happiness offsets the sadness, tips the scale with laughter!

~ Violet

Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage said...

What a little darling! You can see how soft and sweet he is. I'm so happy for you!

Anonymous said...

He is adorable, and looks like a real snuggle-bug! I'm delighted for you; and how wonderful that he has a loving home once again. (HollyM)

JoAnn S. said...

oh Nita I am so happy for you and also happy for Henry. he has found a wonderful home. I am firm believer that dogs need other dogs for companions when their human is not around. What a wonderful Christmas present you gave to yourself.

hugs JoAnn

Olive said...

Franklin was meant to join you and your tribe of weenies. I am thrilled you got him. His coat is lovely. I am glad your heart is mending. love, olive

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! There is nothing like a doggie to make you feel better. Maddie

Twinkle Terrior said...

I'm so happy for you Nita !! He is just precious and gorgeous! And happy for him too - got to be in a loving home with you and the weenies, and no scarey drive to CO. God bless you for opening your home (and heart) to him. oxxo

ChicagoGrrrl said...

YEA!!! I read where the best thing you can do to honor a beloved pet when it passes is to provide a loving home for another animal that needs one. that is what you did. You are so special I know good things are coming. Everything is $$$, but we do not have children or husbands and this is what we love. if you had to put off everything bc of $$$ then life would truly be misery.
I am so relieved you got that guy.

Debby said...

Oh I am doing the happy dance for you Nita. He is adorable and just wht you need right now. Of course, I am a doggie lover. So sweet that someone helped you as well. Are you not working as much now. I hope you aren't and you have plenty time to play. We got our Springer in a similar way. No one claimed him and he was so well taken care of and the thing I noted were how soft his paws were. Congratulations to you and all your little ones.

Vicki V @ blestnest.blogspot.com said...

Congrats on your new puppy! I got my dog on Petfinder, too, and he is the best dog EVER. It's so nice to rescue a dog, isn't it? Henry is very lucky to have a family like yours!

Cindy said...

I am SO happy for you!!! Good for you, my friend, you sound so happy!
Love and hugs, Cindy

Betsy Brock said...

How wonderful! And he is darling!...sent to heal your broken heart. Awww. :)

CathySchmathy said...

Yay for a new weenie! Congratulations!

Twyla and Lindsey said...

Congratulations! He's beautiful! They will all be great friends before long. Love all the pictures! Twyla

Unknown said...

Nita I am so glad that you got Franklin, I was hoping that was your secret. He is adorable! And I am glad that he is working his puppy magic on your heart. You have been throught a very rough year and it is about time that something great happened in your life. Love his name. I will look forward to even more pictures of all of the weanies this year.
Traci

katt said...

So very happy you've found each other,he is BEAUTIFUL.

Anonymous said...

He's so sweet! Congratulations! I'm glad another puppy has a good home!

Alison @ The Polohouse said...

What a sweet little brood you have!
Your new addition is just precious.
love the freckled paws! He would have come home with me too.

Everything happens for a reason.
Looks like this match was made in heaven. :)

Nice to hear from you Nita!
(I took a full time job in Sept and never seem to get much time for blogging and commenting as much as I would like!)

Happy new year friend!
xoxo
Alison

Anonymous said...

The more dogs, the better!! :-) Your dogs are too precious!! Love them and I'm very happy they are in a wonderful home!

Thanks for sharing!!!

Mary Ann said...

I am so jealous,he is precious. I wrote you once about my doxies.I am so happy for you.

24 Corners said...

Oh Nita..I'm so happy for you! Franklin is adorable, and it's obvious that you two were meant to be together. All the 'sausages' will embrace him as part of the family...even Harvey, they know he's there for a reason! ♥
Congratulations!!!
xo J~

Vicki said...

He is adorable. I hope they keep adapting and getting along so you have no worries. I'm sure you know that lots of exercise for the pup is the key so he doesn't bother them too much. I'm always careful with food and treats when a new friend arrives so that they don't feel like they need to establish a new pecking order. Best of luck to this new little pack.

Emily said...

You have a heart of gold...........

Tammy@Beatrice Banks said...

Had to come see the secret. He's adorable!

for the love of a house said...

Blurry or not, that last photo is sooooo wonderful!!! He is indeed a beautiful boy and I am so very happy for you and all your fur-babies!!

wags,
joan and ella

Unknown said...

congrats, nita! he a beautiful boy. how wonderful of you to give him a home.

and yes, harvey will come around.

you have a lovely family- love the pic of them all snuggled!

oxoxo,

c.

Donna W. said...

Franklin is such a handsome little fellow, Nita you were so lucky to find him. You can tell from the pictures that he knows he has found a wonderful forever home.
I first saw a dappled doxie a few years ago. It was grey with perfectly round dappled spots. I had never seen anything like it. Imagine; a polka dot dog! I’ve been smitten ever since. I look forward to seeing lots of pictures of Franklin and all your furry friends.

Holly said...

I am so happy for you...and Franklin! He is a beautiful dog!

Dawn said...

He is beautiful and precious. Congratulations on being a mom again. I really enjoyed this post. What a nice surprise to stop by for inspiration for a bedroom I am decorating only to find a sweet new additon. Dawn Suitcase Vignettes xo

Sixty-Fifth Avenue said...

He is adorable, and I love the name you gave him! Congratulations on the new puppy.