adoption

Like so many of my friends and family have done past and present, I made a big decision this year. I've adopted! Okay, the adoption that I am associated with is largely different from that of which my friends and family have been involved with, but similarly I've taken the responsibility to take care of an orphaned being. That this being happens to be four legged, furry, and will not be able to carry on a conversation in English...ever, are some of the differences that stand out. Here is how it all went down.

This year has been one of many surprises, and by the end of October when I was packing up my belongings to move on to my next place of residence, I quickly realized that I had acquired four houseplants and a pet. Now you have to realize that I've been working my whole adult life to avoid houseplants and pets, not because I hate those things (I actually enjoy both, quite affectionately), but in active knowledge that to take care of these things will affect the pack-up-and-leave lifestyle that I so cherish. So you can imagine the constriction on my heart that took place when I realized the weightiness of the situation!

The houseplants I accepted from others either as gifts or as a favor, but the dog...hmmm. Jasper came to the farm in April, abused, neglected and starving for food as well as attention. Since no one on the farm cared for dogs, I was unanimously put in charge of trying to "make a farm dog" out of him. I'm still not sure what that means. Months later after working with him diligently, and sharing time and space I began to realize that it would be hard to walk away from him. I was in trouble.

I searched and searched for a home for him, everyone I met I asked if they needed a dog. I literally asked every local member of the farm if they wouldn't mind taking Jasper home. Poor bugger didn't have any takers.

Therefore, last week I officially adopted Jasper, and we both left Victory Acres. He's done well adjusting to life in a pen, rather than 'free range'. And I was forced to buy him a dog sweater (which I was so annoyed about) but in his defense, he was constantly shivering.

So although it is a big hiccup in my life having a pet, I'm going to brave it and give it a go. I know he needs me, and truth be told I probably need him a little bit too.