Can I tell you how much I adore this shelter dog?

Since we adopted her two months ago, Molly has become our newest family member. She helps me make dinner. She wait for the kids at the front window. She rids shot gun in the car. She gives kisses and hugs. She’s sweeter than sweet, and we feel lucky that she’s here. But we’re taking our time getting to know each other, and that’s really the way it should be.

• I’m getting to know Molly’s personality. That she loves under her chin and neck scratched. How she hates to go outside when it’s raining or cold, how she doesn’t eat her dinner all at once-even when it’s soaked in chicken stock, how she won’t lie in bed if even one of her toys is in it. I could go on, but it’s sweet to know her personality, and to know the more comfortable she is her, the more Molly shines.
• And this dog has some quirks, and I love every one of them. And I found out on Thanksgiving that she doesn’t like green beans. She pulled them out of her bowl, dropped them on the floor, and went on eating the rest of her turkey and mashed potatoes.
• The training takes time. Molly graduates from her GROWL class on Wednesday night, but I know we’re just getting started with the training. I’m sure her anxiety will be something we’ll need to work on for a while. But it’s very much like teaching my kids manners, the dog and I have to learn how to work together.
• There are so many homeless pets in the world. And rescue pups make quality, loyal, and beautiful pets. I am so glad we looked to Pet Helpers, the local no-kill shelter, first when we decided to adopt a dog.
• And while it’s not Molly-related, I learned that Pinterest pins sometimes fail. It’s a good lesson to learn, and it makes my dreams of a Pinterest-life feel a little more grounded.

It’s been a wonderful and valuable month for my family. Taking the time to stop and get to know our new pet better will make us better pet owners overall. And we look forward to a long and happy lifetime with Molly.