Puppies

Technology failed us on the way to Malta. Lisa and Jeremy have decided to add a chocolate lab puppy to their family for Christmas, and because it was a surprise for her husband, Lisa asked Laura and me and the grandchildren to ride along and see the puppies when she put down her deposit. Sounds great! A fun Sunday afternoon ride with squirming puppies at the end -- what could go wrong?

Lisa mapblasted the directions (this is the technology part) and we were off - a winding up and down trail over three counties, going back and forth and looking for places that went straight (I swear that's what the directions said). It was enough to make some stomaches queasy, and we were lucky that the kids fell asleep. On Saturday there had been snow, but it had all melted at home. The further south and east we went, the more snow was left on the countryside and back roads. Our progress became slower and slower. Of course, we missed a turn or two and resorted to looking at the map and coming onto our final road from the opposite direction. But we were there, almost.

As I turned on to the road, Laura yelled, "Stop." We were at the top of a steep hill, covered with snow and cinders. I cautiously backed up to the berm while Lisa called the owners of her puppy who explained we were almost there --take a right just halfway down the hill. I put it in low and we cautiously descended and turned into their large clear driveway. And then, in the yard, there they were, ten black and brown puppies tumbling about in the snow. Even 4 year old Quinn who's a bit nervous around dogs was thrilled at the cold little noses and warm fur. Kai tried to act like he wasn't interested, but soon even he was out of the car to check out all the excitement.
Lisa's new puppy was inside, staying warm and clean for her new owner to check her out. She's adorable and her name will be Lily. Lily will be coming home on Sunday to meet Jeremy and Daisy, a 2 year old chocolate lab the kids rescued last year.

It was definitely a fun day and I chuckle every time I think of it. The owners are going to meet Lisa halfway when she picks up Lily so it won't be quite as much fun. Even if she were to have to travel all the way to Malta again, we now know it's not near as difficult as the mapquest program made it. If you want to get to Malta from Jacksontown, take route 13 south until it intersects with route 37 east. Turn east on 37 and it will take you directly to Malta. Go figure. We came back that way on Sunday. It was a pleasant trip home but not worth any chuckles.