The Village That Loved Her First

Before Cordelia was even home with us, she already had a little village cheering her on.

Our friends were there through the whole journey. They shared in the excitement while we reserved her, waited for her, counted down the days, and finally got to meet her. Their enthusiasm made the waiting even more fun, and when Cordelia finally arrived, they were just as excited to love her as we were.

One of her first big introductions was at a friend’s birthday party. Everyone sat in a circle and the kids greeted her calmly, giving her space and letting her decide who she wanted to approach. Then the parents and older siblings joined the circle too, because everyone wanted a chance to meet her. It was such a sweet way for her to meet a whole group of people. Everyone was patient with her, but you could also feel how excited they were. They absolutely poured their love on her.

Our next door neighbor had a beautiful puppy welcome basket waiting for Cordelia when she arrived, filled with toys for her to discover. Her first full day at home included the joy of meeting our neighbor and playing with all of her new things. Most of those toys are still her favorites.

When we took her to work to introduce her, everyone loved on her and gave her all the pets she could possibly want. Grandma came over to meet her too, and of course she came bearing gifts.

Over and over, people around us have shared in our excitement. They have celebrated the little milestones, asked about her, loved on her, and been genuinely happy because we are happy.

That kind of support means more than I can really put into words. There is something special about having people in your life who take joy in your joy. We are so grateful for the friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers who have already made Cordelia feel so loved.

Of course, it probably helps that she is a puppy as sweet as Cordelia.