Meet Lydia

We have a new addition to the music studio:  Lydia!

For years we have had cats, including my beloved Sophie, her brother Watson, and their mother Stella.  And so when the last two died last spring, it felt pretty empty over here.  If you’ve ever had to put a pet down, you know how it leaves a hole in your life, your heart, and your home.

With my husband’s illness and our planned travels in May and August, it seemed like good timing and so we endured the loss.  I got in touch with a breeder of mini aussies who plans on having a litter ready to adopt in December 2019.  We put ourselves on the list for a female, black and white mini.

And then, I got this picture in a text from our son Jamie, with the words “Look what Grandma and Papa have!”

Oh my, something was up.  They already have two big dogs.  And we were due to arrive at their house for a visit in a week.

My dad teaches piano at ASU, and one of his doctoral students bought a puppy for her children to play with while she practices long hours.  Unfortunately, potty training was a challenge in these circumstances, and so at four months the pup was still making messes all over the house.  Stressful!  And so, knowing that my parents are great with dogs, she asked them to take her.

She just happens to be a female, black and white mini aussie.  Perfect!

And so Lydia came home with us.  It’s a little earlier than we were planning on, and 90% of her care (and exercise!) falls to me.  However, she has quickly and thoroughly filled the hole in our lives, our hearts, and our home.  Yes, we have had to work hard to get her potty manners under control, but because her first family’s children played violin and cello, she settles nicely during lessons (as long as we ignore her).  Priorities, people!

We were out for a walk the other day, and I saw a front doormat that said “I hope you like cats”.  I need one that says “I hope you like dogs” because when you come for your lesson, you can count on a warm welcome from our sweet, extraverted little Lydia.  She loves you all!  And hopefully one of these days I’ll get her to keep all four paws on the ground when you arrive.  😊

---