Two Birthdays and a New Boy

I don't have to say what a busy week it has been. I'm not sure how I ever managed to work 5 days a week. Even though it's not 40 hours (and it's less pay) being gone from home every day means that nothing is really getting done.

~Virginia Bluebells are in bloom right now~

Thankfully, Carl is temporarily home while his agency tries to cut back on the teams that are working at his location. So, he's been a big help. Despite the busy week and no real free time and all that has come with it, it has been a pretty good week for our crew.

On Saturday, we marked a 10th birthday, for Max. I post his pictures often enough, but I don't say much about him.  Max has been with us for nearly 4 years now. He is a picky eater, sensitive to my emotions and has been a great comfort in sad times and happy ones too. He is an affectionate, fun and comical companion, who loves to chase and pounce on the cats. He's also a good friend and an attentive canine brother to the other dogs, including Todd.

And speaking of Todd.... He also had a birthday this week.  Can you believe that Todd is now 9 years old?  I know I can't!  So, as is my tradition, I take this (silly) picture every year, using the same hat, same setting, the same, (but different) cookie -- Next year, at 10, I'll make a collage of all the photos.

But at 9 years old, Todd is fearless, smart, and so much more. It goes without saying that I love his spirit for fun and tireless energy for whatever comes next. Like most Scotties, Todd can be independent, but he is a devoted companion and friend. An example of that is when I go to bed at night, he follows me, and stays on the bed until I get up the next morning. Even if I sleep late.

Finally, just because things aren't hopping enough at our house, we have welcomed a handsome new arrival. A very nervous Leo arrived on Wednesday evening. At eleven years old, he was given up by his owner who has stage 4 breast cancer. Leo spent the last 2 semesters at college with the youngest daughter. But because of life and its circumstances, none of the 3 children are able to provide a longtime home for Leo. He's a really nice dog, and you can't help but like him.

Leo is a bit of a "nervous nellie" and is not a fan of thunder storms, new men, and change. But today, with better weather, feeling comfortable and confident, there have been lots of tailwags, and smiles --The best way to start a weekend!

~Cat, what cat??~