Conversation

Shortly after Christmas, a conversation with a friend went something like this:

Friend:  "How was your Christmas?"
Me:  "It was actually a pretty stressful season for me this time around."
Friend:  "Yeah, I noticed you didn't get to the Christmas cards this year."
Me:  "Nope.  I got half-way there, then devoted the rest of my Christmas card making time to a nervous breakdown instead."
Friend:  "I'm sorry to hear it.  We were all waiting on pins an needles for the announcement of another Allen.  It's about time, isn't it?"
Me:  "Well, let me announce it over the phone then..."

May I introduce Heidi, the 1 1/2 yr old greyhound/collie (technically a lurcher).

How is Seamus the guard cat with her?  He was tentative at first, but quickly warmed to the benefits of a friend with a penchant for cat food.  This works because he prefers dog food.

How have the kids responded to the added work of feeding, and caring for a dog?

They have embraced it.  Half the blanket closet was lining her bed the first night.  We've since had a little talk about the role of fur...

How has she responded to six lively kids having never had exposure to children before?

 No problems.  I think we struck it rich with this girl.

Friend:  "Was she the cause of your nervous breakdown?"
Me:  "Ironically no.  She was the result."