a girls best friend.

Today my little nugget turned one year old. And in super-dog-lover fashion I gave him a little party. Nothing too crazy. Except that he got a cake (a stuffed one that squeaks) dog bakery goodies (frosted and all), there was a theme (oceanic), there were party favors for him and my lab (Greenies, for fresh breath after the cookies) and my friend came and brought him gifts. 

O.K. so maybe it was a little over-the-top crazy. But this little guy, My Charming Charlie, has brought us an immense amount of joy. After over a year of trying to conceive we decided to adopt a fur baby to help get our minds off of it. A little furry bundle to shower with love for life. The stress he relieved was a factor in me finally being able to conceive and I believe that whole-heartedly. (Not that I am telling anyone to run out and buy a puppy when you're trying for a baby) - in our case we'd been talking about adding another dog to the family for about two years and with me working from home felt it was finally time. 

Training him and getting to love on him and be loved by another loyal little fur baby helped my broken heart heal when we lost our little over Christmas and I love celebrating his little life. So, when I look at all the love and healing I've gained from his life, I don't find it crazy at all to throw him a party, to shower him with over priced gluten-free and grain-free cookies and toys that make him smile. 

We even started the day with a one-mile run - which was a big deal. I started back on my MTHFR B12 Methylation protocol and I finally had energy to run - being able to see him run through grassy yards and have me keep up with him was a gift for both of us today .

Here's to you my little Charlie Bear. Mama and dad love you so. We hope you had a wonderful 1st Birthday - in your fancy tie and all.