Even though Bella wasn’t the first dog I’ve loved, she was the first dog who was all mine. I saw her online, I went to meet her. I had to leave her for 24 hours because she was a rescue pup. Then I went back again and took her home.

Forever.

She is my fuzzy soul mate and in the last 24 hours or so, she has reminded me of that over and over. Despite the teething and everything else that’s going on in our home to hijack mumma’s time, I try to find as much time for Bella and Beary as I can. Being in their company, holding their fuzzy little paws and snuggling them calms me and brings me back to earth.

Bella’s ears kill me – they always have.

Her beautiful scar on her hind leg reminds me of her not so fabulous start in life, how far she’s come, and how glad I am she was saved.

And I love how close she likes to be to me. When I’m working from home, she can often be found hanging out on the same chair as me, keeping me company.

Thank you for being my Bella, for waiting for me when I found you online, and for loving me like you do. And foor being such a patient and loving big sister to your furry and non-furry siblings.

You are a love. My fuzzy fuzzy love.

Don’t forget to vote for us in the Best Australian Blogs 2012 competition. We know bumpyroadtobubba is your favourite (Australian parenting) blog, but you have to let the people running the competition know too! Click on the link, mark the box next to bumpyroadtobubba (about 2/3 of the way down the first page) then click through to the final page and leave your details. Mumma, Bubba, Bella & Beary appreciate your support! www.surveymonkey.com/s/BAB2012