Welcome Home Cooper!

The big day finally happened! Cooper is officially home and learning what it is like to be an "only child" instead of one of 10. We have had a very fun, yet interesting couple of days.....

It started with Jeff and I both taking a 1/2 day from work on Thursday. He picked me up at the hospital where I work and we were off to make the long 2 1/2 drive up to Columbia City, IN. (Sidenote: I had many people ask me if I brought clothes to change into after working my half day. Those of you who really know me, already know the answer to that question....Of course I brought an extra change of clothes!! Do you really think I would go work with a bunch of sick patients and then have my brand new puppy cuddle into my God-knows-what-is-all-over-me scrubs? No way, not even a chance!) Once we got to the breeder's house, she gave us all his paperwork, provided us with some last minute advice, gave us a toy with his siblings scent on it, and then sent us on our way.

The ride home was tough on poor little Cooper. It was his first car ride and he was riding with 2 people he barely knew. There was lots of whining and lots of treats given to convince him that we were pretty OK people. By the end of the drive, he settled on Jeff's lap as he drove...kind of....



Once we got home, we introduced him to our yard, to our house, and to all his new toys. He picked up were the backdoor was really quickly. So quickly, that with each new toy we gave him, he would carry them to the back door while whimpering like he was hoping his siblings were all out there so he could show them his new found treasures! He whimpered the entire night...it wasn't like he was sad, just like he was talking. I should clarify...the whimpering lasted until it was bedtime. Once it was officially lights out, that is when the real crying began!





Overall, he is doing remarkably well! He has learned how to sit on command and he is beginning to recognize his name. He has that wonderful personality that is true to the Golden Retriever breed. And oh, that puppy breath...if I could only bottle it up!