Day 30

As I parent, one of the most difficult things for me to do is to stand back and let my kids hurt!  I would walk thru a wall so they didn't have to experience deep pain.  Having said that, I know we can't shelter them from everything and I know we can't keep12 dogs!!!  We have loved on the puppies all weekend and for the past 30 days.  This weekend we have had several people come and visit the puppies and we are very thankful for that.  So this afternoon, we continued our conversation about the puppies being adopted and going to their future homes.  Although we tried to keep things light, it became a crying fest for the kids.  They each have a favorite(s) and truly love all 11 of the puppies.  My oldest explained to me that he was feeling the kind of pain that "hurts from the inside and makes your heart feel heavy and sad".  Oh, boy!  We tried to remind them about all of the great families that have come to see their future puppy.  We talked about how much love and attention each puppy deserves and will get with these wonderful families.  They get it, but are still processing the fact that the puppies will be leaving Tess and our family.  Our youngest was pretty quiet throughout much of the conversation but an hour or so later, she came into the kitchen and announced that she was going to make the Adoption Day into a big party!  So if you are one of the families adopting one of Tess's pups, don't be surprised if there are fun treats!!!

I pick one girl and one boy, does that count!