We have decided to get a springer spaniel puppy. I grew up with a spaniel and would love to have one to walk with us in the woods. We found a breeder in MN we feel good about. He has two pups we are interested in. As always, Lesley prefers one and I prefer the other. We invited our neighbor lady over last night for a meal and movie. We showed her the pics and she naturally preferred the one Lesley likes. I then employed a man's favorite two words "yes dear". Either one will get us out of the house more and help us be more active, as spaniels require lots of exercise. Sorta sounds like me. Anyway probably have it in a month or so. Will try to post a pic when we get it.

Want to pick up on a topic hostsue started on her blog about well meaning friends. We are facing a similar situation with mom in New Zealand. She is 84, in good health, but a widow. Lesley is an only child. Ultimately, her care if needed will be our responsibility. If we had to put her in a nursing home in New Zealand, that would be devastating for all concerned. Thus, we have started the process to get her over here in MN as a legal alien permanent resident. Homeland security has approved her as Lesley is an American citizen and can sponsor her. We are now in the final stages of the process. Mom would prefer to stay in NZ, and have the one son of Lesley with his two lovely daughters live with her until she dies. They have moved out, she didn't like it, but he has a life too. A new lady has entered his life and being on his own became important to him. Anyway, now that you know the story you will appreciate this part. The same people that caution us to not move her away from what she knows and likes, these are the same people that would criticize us if we had to put her in a nursing home in NZ alone. They would then tell us how terrible we are. We understand the point, but like the other possibilities less. Until a person has walked in your shoes and knows the entire story, I don't place much stock in what they say. We must bring her over once she passes her medical exam within six months. We must do all of this while she can still pass a medical exam. If we wait and her medical condition deteriorates, we will have no options left.

Hostsue, do what is best for you and Ray.

My coffee cup is empty again and Lesley just got up, so I must go.