Puppy Love

A few months before I moved, I somehow ended up with two puppies. Their original owners kept the entire litter a small box and fed them Bisquick biscuits. A friend's parents (bless their hearts) took the puppies once they found out about their living conditions. My friend took one dog (Rafiki), who I instantly fell in love with. I took her everywhere with me, and was so happy when my friend worked graveyards so that I could keep her over night.

How cute is she???

Anyone who knows me knows that I am a complete sap when it comes to dogs. I'm the ridiculous soul you've probably seen running down the side of the road, chasing the stray dog that's getting too close to traffic.  So, naturally, Rafiki melted my heart. After finding it incredibly difficult to part with her, I decided that I needed a puppy too. A week later, Rafiki was reunited with her sister, and we welcomed Cordelia into the family.

Wish they were still this tiny

After a couple of weeks, I decided that I could not separate the two of them, nor could I separate myself from Rafiki. She became very co-dependant, and really struggled whenI wasn't around. She quickly became "Freaky Fiki." It was never even discussed or declared "official"--Rafiki just became mine. I certainly did not plan to make this move with a puppy, let alone two puppies! After receiving all of their vaccinations, a couple snips of the girly parts, and a clean bill of health, they made the big trip to Alaska with me.

I only purchased their kennel a few days before we left, so I was very nervous about how they would take to it. I supplied it with their toys, a towel that they've used since I first got them, and one of my stuffed animals that I have slept with for years (yes, I am eternally 4 years old). They did AMAZING on our drive! Not once did they whine or whimper. I still can't believe how well they did, especially at only 5 months old.

We went from living in a big house with a huge back yard to play in, to a small apartment with only on-leash grounds to walk through. Although I am surrounded by thick trees and brush, I was afraid that they would not get the exercise or adventure that every dog needs. So, after a few Google searches and trips around Anchorage, I was ECSTATIC to find an Off-Leash-Dog-Park near by. Even calling this place a Dog Park seems silly. It's really just a patch of forest with trails running throughout it. I think these pictures explain it better than my words...


They're white...Of course they love to play in the mud!





The trees are amazing



They are in puppy heaven here





It's an absolutely beautiful park. The puppies love meeting new furry friends, and make their presence known with every newcomer. I had to return my rental car yesterday, so it will be a little while until we go back, but I'm excited to have found this little treasure in our neighborhood!

Things continue to go very well here. I had to return my rental car to the airport, and walked through it to get to the taxi waiting area. After being here for a week, I felt that I should have been boarding a plane to head home. It will take a long time to get used to this. My oldest niece starts high school tomorrow, and my youngest niece starts kindergarten. It's hard not being there for those big moments, as I have always been present for them (now begins the water works). I miss my family beyond words, but know that I was meant for this move. I am so excited to see what the future holds for me. I have been busy with work, which feels great! I have been in touch with a lot of work contacts who are just as excited about this company's future as I am. I count my blessings every day! Until next time...Cheers!