My new companion, Dale... already trying to run free.

I don't know what got into me - maybe all that babysitting of the awesome Pug, Gus.  Either way I would occasionally check online to see the Lakeland Terrier puppies that were available.  They were all too expensive.  Then we found another breeder who had just a few puppies, one litter this year and they were much more reasonably priced - so it was clear she wasn't making a living off of her pups.  She had listed Dale under the name of "pumpkin" which was what attracted me to this listing in particular. I love a good fall pumpkin latte and all things pumpkin.

Paul makes Dale look like a little bit of a thing.

Dale Meets Bari, Nancy and Josiah!

I showed Paul the pup and he of course was surprised and agreed the little thing was ADORBS. He was a grizzle too (meaning the dark and light coloring) which is what we wanted and are a little bit harder to find. Regardless, we sat on the decision for a day and then came to the ridiculous conclusion that we would get him.  WHAT?  I know. I have no idea.

Stinky Pup.  We named him DALE!

We were going to remodel our kitchen soon, so as destructive as puppies can be, we thought that would be a great place to throw him while we're at work.  And we have the massive dog park by our house which makes it an attractive place for a pup to live.  We talked with the owner and had him take a quick flight out to us.  When he arrived he smelled of farm and pee, but after a quick shower he was good as new and ours for the next 12 years!  Dale sure has been an adventure to say the least... he's currently gnawing on his kennel behind me as I write this, oh Dale...

Trying to teach him to hunt (ducks for now) from the moment he arrived.