Just like new babies, puppies can arrive early. We were anticipating picking her up Saturday, but I got a call Wednesday afternoon, asking if we wanted to come get her. We jumped at the chance and surprised the kids. I made a quick trip to PetSmart to get some necessities - collar, leash, food, etc. A friend dropped off a crate later that evening.The kids had church activities that night, we went to Cornell's with Joely to pick up our sweet little Nara. It was really sad leaving because she was only the second puppy to go. She played with her parents and siblings before we left. She seemed to know what was going to happen, but of course that wasn't possible.
We drove to church to pick up the kids. I had a sleeping puppy on my lap and we made it home and in the house before the kids noticed her in my arms. Calla saw first and with a dropped jaw and then a big smile she welcomed Nara home. Carter, was talking a mile a minute, stood next to me holding Nara and didn't notice until Calla said something. The kids were thrilled.

We all were wondering how our 11 year old lab would respond to a puppy. Pepper seemed scared, she was shaking a bit. Nara was very happy to meet her, thought she would have a playmate to rough house with, but not so far. Cory and I petted Pepper and gave her lots of attention and love while still trying to play with Nara. After a couple hours, Pepper returned the interest in Nara, sniffed and licked her, reassuring the rest of us, that all would be ok.

As expected, we had a loud first night (and second too). But having a strong willed child has helped prepare me to be in control of the dog and not let my heart melt too much.
Nara sleeps a lot still during the day. Her first day my goal was to get her in crate without too much crying - it was a success and right now she is sleeping in it voluntarily!
