Puppies are the ultimate bait and switch. You know they are going to grow, but even when you see it with your own eyes, it’s hard to believe it. Lily was 12.1 pounds at her first vet appointment at 8 weeks. Just six short weeks later, she was pushing 30 pounds and looking much more wise and knowing. Don’t believe me? Take a look for yourself.

If I were not such a trustworthy individual, you may find it difficult to believe that this is even the same creature. But, it is. I am as flabbergasted as anyone. You can make out the paws, even with the grass, in the first photo. As you can see in the second photo, those paws remain quite large for her body. I am imagining we are not nearly even halfway grown. It’s always an adventure!

Even in the few days since I snapped the photo of her on the couch, she continues to grow and look more like a dog and less like a puppy. But, just like my kids, her eyes stay the same. And her ears are as velvety soft as they were the first time I met her. She is a dear girl and although I am sure her orneriness is perpetual and not something she will outgrow, I think everyone needs to infuse a little ornery into their lives at regular intervals lest things become too predictable and boring. She is still working on losing her baby teeth, but almost all other external “baby” attributes have disappeared.

I enjoy being her person…even when she acts like a jackass. [I can say that. I’m her mom.] I hope she enjoys me being her person…even when I act like a jackass.

She’s even giving me a reason to not mind the first snowfall. I simply cannot wait to see her reaction. I’m expecting unbridled excitement and joy. I cannot wait to see how she responds to the cold white stuff. We dodged a bullet for snow this weekend, so I’m sure I won’t have to wait long to see her first snowfall with her.