Meet Willie!

Here's Jennifer's brand new Labradoodle, Willie, on his way home from Iowa this week. He's eight weeks old, is learning how to go down the back steps, and will have free range in Jen's big fenced-in back yard. The puppy wasn't used to travel when Jen drove him to his Minnesota home and he threw up all over her. Ever resourceful, Jen pulled over at a Thrift Store in Waverly and bought a change of clothing.
It's the first of many unexpected expenses the owner will endure, but hey, just look at those adorable eyes and huge paws.

Good Boy. . .

The Labradoodle was originally developed to be a hypo-allergenic guide dog. The first planned crosses of standard poodles and labrador retrievers were arranged by the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. The result was a smart and sociable dog, who not only possessed a nature appropriate for guide dogs but also had a low-shedding coat -- according to DogTime.com.
We're excited about the addition to the extended family, especially Stan, who delights in anything male. . . even though there are plans afoot to take care of that. Willie may grow to about 50 pounds, 30 pounds bigger than cousin Birdie, but we're sure they'll get along famously.
The timing couldn't be better for Jennifer, who faces surgery on July 10, and will no doubt benefit greatly from a four-legged companion during her convalescence. Willie was born on April 24, the same day Jennifer learned the details of her breast cancer.
We all think they were meant for each other.