A New Puppy

We've lived in our house for nearly 14 years now. We've had all kinds of rodents for pets and several guinea pigs. We've even fostered kittens and a bunny once. My kids have begged for a dog for years. I was a little hesitant and my husband was adamant not to get one. This past weekend we caved - but only under the condition that they agree to my terms - share in picking up the poop, agree to take their turn going on walks, feeding the dog before they eat themselves...and so on. Now you may be thinking that's unrealistic and it will really end up being my responsibility. Yes I know and I can hear your collective laughter. But...I'm going to do my darnedest to hold them accountable too. So, before I laid any money down for a puppy, I had my kids sign a contract. It basically says that if they fail to the terms, or if Mom has to remind them constantly to help, they will forfeit a privilege or item of Mom's choice (something like cel phone usage, or screen time) until they are back on track. I also noted that the puppy we want costs money - a lot of money! There's the cost of the puppy itself, we need to build a fence, and of course routine vet visits and grooming. It will require some financial sacrifice on all of our parts - so I asked the kids what they would be willing to give up in order to help us afford the dog? I was thinking something along the lines of a couple months allowance. To my astonishment, they offered to give up a trip to Hawaii we have planned for this summer. Wow. That was a real indicator of how much they want a dog. So, we cancelled the trip and picked out a new puppy. Wish me luck. We'll bring her home next week and I for one CAN'T WAIT!