Shhh....don't tell!

While we were in Seattle in September, my Dad dog-sat the neighbors golden retriever, Lizzy. The kids fell in love with her, and the prospect of getting a dog has been a hot topic of conversation ever since, especially for Katie who loves all creatures great and small. We have finally decided that we are ready for a dog again and have selected this young pup, who will be named Jackson. Although we are "giving" him to Katie for her birthday, he will really be Chris's dog. He's already been researching all about pet-ownership, training, and specifics of the breed so that when Jackson comes home to live with us sometime after Feb. 8th, we'll be ready for him. But don't mention it to Ben...he stinks at keeping secrets, and we want Katie to be surprised!