Bad To The Bone

The ugly dog:  under 4 pounds.  Scrawny.  Naked underbelly.  Big buggy eyes.  Easily breakable.  Noisy - shrill barking and lengthy tweedling. Needy. Prone to trampling her humans regularly.  Occupying a surprisingly large amount of space in the bed.  Standing creepily on her hind legs to beg for food or even to peer out a doorway -- a self-taught behavior.  Weird. 

Yet:  hilarious tail-chaser.  Enjoyer of socks and teeny tennis balls.  Furry ball lap-sleeper.  And, it appears, territorial, for the wee little creature growls and/or lunges at individuals, be they human or other canine, who attempt to touch or even to stand closely to Herself. 

Herself and I were, frankly, displeased at first when this animal joined the household.  After one year, though, we are glad for her presence.  She entertains us and comforts us, and has brought youthful optimism to the dog-pack of the household. 

Happy birthday, Maya.