It’s Been A Year Since I Adopted Marley. Here’s A Look At The Past 12 Months.

I can't believe it's already been a year since I adopted Marley. But then again, it feels like he's been with me forever.

Marley and I met in September at the WOKQ Last Blast of Summer at the Raitt Homestead Farm in Eliot, ME. There were lots of different dog rescue organizations in attendance that day. And quite honestly I wasn't even looking to adopt. I just walked under that big tent with nothing more in mind than to pet some puppies.

But then I met Marley. Well, his name was actually Stuart at that time. He and his siblings had been named after the characters from the sitcom The Big Bang Theory. Since I've never watched more than one episode, the name didn't mean anything to me. And from what I could tell it held no significance to him either since he didn't respond to it...and he didn't own a TV at the time!

Anyway, after about ten minutes of snuggling, wet kisses to my face, and looking into those big brown eyes I felt began to feel something I hadn't felt in years. I was smitten. But I refused to allow myself to believe it. I gave him one last snuggle and walked from under the tent to let cooler heads prevail...and to wipe off my face. He really gave BIG kisses. Then I went back again. This time my son Jack went with me. Within a couple of minutes, Jack stated the obvious, "Wow Dad. I haven't seen you have a connection with a dog like this in a really long time." Oh boy! Now I was in trouble. Jack started in about adopting him...and wouldn't let the idea go. I didn't tell him I had already been thinking the same thing.

Long story short...after two weeks of conversations, e-mails, filling out paperwork, home inspections, and shopping for a dog bed, toys, and food...the newly named Marley came to live with me.

He has brought me more joy...laughter...and a few sleepless nights than I ever imagined he would. He is a really special dog. And I'm so happy we found each other. Thanks again to everyone at Lucky Pup Rescue in Kennebunkport, ME for changing each of our lives forever.