Our New Family Member

Well, once again, it's been awhile since I blogged. But this time I actually have a really good reason! You see, I've been a little bit busy with our new family member!

Everybody, meet Niko! (You say it like Nee-Coe) Our new Miniature Australian Shepherd puppy! Isn't he a doll?

Yes, at long last, Brianna's dream has come true... she's only been asking to get a dog since she learned to say the word. And finally, Mom and Dad felt ready to take the plunge! We took it seriously though, we want to be responsible pet owners and we wanted to make sure to get the right dog for us. So, after doing lots and lots of research on breeds, we decided that the Australian Shepherd was the breed for us. They're good natured, good with kids, great family pets, and are gorgeous dogs. We wanted to get the Mini Aussie though since we thought that would be a better size for our lifestyle and yard. So, long story short, I spent lots and lots of time online reading through shelter listings and newspaper ads until... we found him!

He came from a great family just outside Billings who own both his mom and dad. After talking with them on the phone, we decided to make it a Valentine's weekend trip and hit the road! And the rest is history... There were actually 2 little puppies to choose from, but Brianna instantly picked out this guy.

I mean, who could resist this face? Bree also had some ideas about names...first she wanted to call him "Chocolate" and then suggested "Flipster" but, we vetoed those.

He's one good looking dog! And so sweet-natured too! He's been wonderful with the kids and seems to have decided that we're okay as "his people." He even likes our cats, although, they're not too sure about him yet.