Today marks exactly one year since Scout came into my life. I still remember exactly where I was and what I was doing the first time I saw him. It was a Thursday afternoon at work and we had just finished throwing a bridal shower for a coworker. A few of us were still in the conference room chatting and cleaning up when I decided to check to see if Northeast Animal Shelter had listed any new dogs since the last time I checked (which was . . . an hour before). I refreshed the page and this face was staring back at me:
How can you say no to that smiling face?
The girls crowded around my laptop and we read all about Scout. One of my coworkers grabbed my cell phone and dialed the shelter to ask if Scout was still there. I knew I couldn't make it to Salem, MA before they closed, so that entire night I had a pit in my stomach wondering if someone would get to him before I could.
The next morning I called the shelter when it opened at 10:00am and they confirmed Scout was still there. I called again at 12:00pm and then at 2:00pm until finally my boss said, "Just go already!"
I met Scout within minutes of arriving and this is going to sound cheesy, but I just knew he was my dog. After lots of time with him in the playroom and in the shelter's backyard, we signed the papers and back to Watertown we went.
The second day Scout was home with me I took this picture. To this day it's still my all-time favorite because even though he was in a totally new place and had so much to adjust to, he was still happy as a clam.
That first week I was a nervous wreck! I was terrified to leave Scout alone, even just to run to the grocery store. I got him on a Friday and that entire next week I worked from home. When Saturday came around I had planned to go to the South End Garden Tour, which is a 3-4 hour affair. My friend convinced me that we should still go and that Scout would be fine. I am sure he was, but I was clock watching like crazy, counting the minutes until I could get back to him.
Over the course of that first month we started to settle into a routine. Every morning we'd go on super long walks and I started to really fall in love with my neighborhood.
We began meeting other neighbors with dogs and neighbors who are dog lovers. All of a sudden we were part of a true community.
In those early days I learned that Scout loves nothing more than tug of war. In fact, he plays so hard that eventually he falls asleep with the toy on his face or in his paws. It's so cute it crushes me!
I also discovered that he sometimes falls asleep in such a way that he looks like a baby lamb or a bear cub. I mean. I just can't.
He loves car trips and some of his biggest smiles have been when he's riding in the backseat.
Over these past 12 months I've also come to understand some things Scout hates. Number one on the list, being forced to take selfies with me. Evidence below.
He also detests his winter coat.
And he gives me the stink eye whenever I try to gently remove toys from under his head so he can sleep normally.
He has all kinds of weird quirks (like barking wildly at pickup trucks), but then he does something cute like begging for a treat and my heart just melts.
Reaching the one year mark feels especially significant because Scout was sick for a lot of our first year together. I didn't talk about it much here on the blog (it was kind of a downer) but Scout suffered from stomach issues and recurring hot spots that kept rearing their ugly heads every 25-30 days. He spent a good chunk of September - January like this:
During the time his stomach was bothering him, I found myself cooking chicken and rice every day for nearly three months. After being a vegetarian for 19 years, I was a bit out of my element (and rather grossed out). My mom said, "This is true love."
Thanks to the caring and dedicated staff at Fresh Pond Animal Hospital, Scout is now in perfect health. We just had his annual check up and the doctor is optimistic that the treatment plan is working and will continue to do so.
The same weekend we celebrated 11 months together I received this Mother's Day card in the mail. It had no return address and no matter how hard I tried to match the handwriting to other notes and letters I've received, I still can't figure out who sent it. After a year that included countless vet visits, anxiety around who would care for Scout when I had to travel and all the times I felt like I was making a million mistakes, this card reminded me what it's all about.
I feel so lucky to have Scout in my life. He is the happiest, sweetest, silliest boy and he brightens my day every minute that I'm with him. He's helped me fall in love with Watertown (it only took 4 years!), sparked me spending way more time outside and being much more active, introduced me to amazing neighbors who are now true friends and caused me to grow as a person in so many ways.
I want to close this post by saying thank you to all of the people who have been a part of a Scout's life over the past 365 days. I never really understood the expression "it takes a village" until I got a dog. I had so much support and help from friends, neighbors and coworkers and I am eternally grateful.
As we begin our second year together I am excited to keep exploring all the dog-friendly places in and around Boston. If you ever want to join us on an adventure or have a suggestion for a great hike, park or patio, just leave a note in the comments below.
Comments
meghan malloy
Fri, 06/10/2016 - 09:50
This post may have made my eyes a little misty. . . what a great story! Rescue pets are the best!
Molly
Tue, 06/21/2016 - 13:45
As a fellow pet mama, I know you understand!
Kristen Fenton
Fri, 06/10/2016 - 10:09
this is adorable. so happy for you and Scout!
Molly
Tue, 06/21/2016 - 13:46
Thank you! I really love him so so so much.
Chelsea Marrs
Sun, 06/12/2016 - 19:45
Ah I still need to meet Scout!! He looks like honestly the perfect pup, and even learned to write while you were at work to send you a card, how thoughtful! Hope you're having a fab weekend and let's set up a Scout playtime soon!
Chelsea
Chow Down USA
Instagram
Molly
Tue, 06/21/2016 - 13:46
Yes! We have to find a time for you two to meet. I am still in shock about that card. It made me totally weepy!
Dominick MD
Sat, 05/30/2020 - 00:00
There is no doubt that CBD and Hemp oil is very helpful for our pets. Dogs and cats get more benefits and healthy as well as a strong body through the help of CBD. Again CBD treats and oils can reduce the problem like epilepsy and seizures. And if your cats faced this kind of problem then you should use cbd dog treats.
Azeem Bux
Wed, 02/17/2021 - 05:13
I found so many interesting stuff in your blog especially its discussion. From the tons of comments on your articles, I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! keep up the good work... celeb gossip news and pictures
Azeem Bux
Sat, 02/20/2021 - 05:49
This particular papers fabulous, and My spouse and i enjoy each of the perform that you have placed into this. I’m sure that you will be making a really useful place. I has been additionally pleased. Good perform! fantasy baseball rss feed
Azeem Bux
Sat, 04/03/2021 - 12:09
If you are looking for more information about flat rate locksmith Las Vegas check that right away. voyance par telephone
Azeem Bux
Sat, 04/03/2021 - 14:01
I recently came across your blog and have been reading along. I thought I would leave my first comment. I don't know what to say except that I have enjoyed reading. Nice blog. I will keep visiting this blog very often. Kennected Reviews
Azeem Bux
Wed, 04/07/2021 - 07:27
I admire this article for the well-researched content and excellent wording. I got so involved in this material that I couldn’t stop reading. I am impressed with your work and skill. Thank you so much. Online Series
Azeem Bux
Mon, 04/12/2021 - 12:29
Your articles are inventive. I am looking forward to reading the plethora of articles that you have linked here. Thumbs up! CAANZ
Azeem Bux
Tue, 04/13/2021 - 07:52
I got too much interesting stuff on your blog. I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! Keep up the good work. Incredible Blog
Azeem Bux
Wed, 04/14/2021 - 03:18
I got too much interesting stuff on your blog. I guess I am not the only one having all the enjoyment here! Keep up the good work. 먹튀검증
Azeem Bux
Fri, 04/16/2021 - 06:51
This article was written by a real thinking writer without a doubt. I agree many of the with the solid points made by the writer. I’ll be back day in and day for further new updates. smallest bone in human body
Azeem Bux
Sun, 04/18/2021 - 04:49
A very awesome blog post. We are really grateful for your blog post. You will find a lot of approaches after visiting your post. buy 100 youtube views
Azeem Bux
Mon, 04/19/2021 - 09:00
Someone Sometimes with visits your blog regularly and recommended it in my experience to read as well. The way of writing is excellent and also the content is top-notch. Thanks for that insight you provide the readers! https://nitehawkvision.com/c/telescopes/
Azeem Bux
Wed, 04/21/2021 - 08:23
Thanks for taking the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and love learning more on this topic. If possible, as you gain expertise, would you mind updating your blog with extra information? It is extremely helpful for me. Microphone USB
Azeem Bux
Sun, 04/25/2021 - 07:26
Thank you for some other informative website. The place else may just I get that kind of information written in such a perfect method? I have a venture that I am simply now running on, and I’ve been at the glance out for such info. spin the wheel
Azeem Bux
Sun, 04/25/2021 - 07:26
Thank you for some other informative website. The place else may just I get that kind of information written in such a perfect method? I have a venture that I am simply now running on, and I’ve been at the glance out for such info. spin the wheel
Daniel Y. Ryans
Mon, 04/26/2021 - 09:27
You can give the CBD pet tincture to your pet for relieving from pain. They can be helpful for your dog. You can get CBD products from us at a lower price.
Azeem Bux
Fri, 04/30/2021 - 06:57
I have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! https://www.robynehemingway.com/2021/03/top-ways-for-increasing-youtube.html
Azeem Bux
Sun, 05/02/2021 - 00:47
I admire this article for the well-researched content and excellent wording. I got so involved in this material that I couldn’t stop reading. I am impressed with your work and skill. Thank you so much. http://www.wherezit.com/listing_show.php?lid=2202531
Azeem Bux
Mon, 05/03/2021 - 03:11
Yes, I am entirely agreed with this article, and I just want say that this article is very helpful and enlightening. I also have some precious piece of concerned info !!!!!!Thanks. Film
Azeem Bux
Mon, 05/03/2021 - 09:28
If you set out to make me think today; mission accomplished! I really like your writing style and how you express your ideas. Thank you. Vrozol
Azeem Bux
Tue, 05/04/2021 - 05:30
I really impressed after read this because of some quality work and informative thoughts . I just wanna say thanks for the writer and wish you all the best for coming!. California Loan Officer
Azeem Bux
Tue, 05/11/2021 - 12:39
I’ve read some good stuff here. Definitely worth bookmarking for revisiting. I surprise how much effort you put to create such a great informative website. Buy Nepalese Hash
Azeem Bux
Sun, 05/16/2021 - 02:38
Impressive web site, Distinguished feedback that I can tackle. Im moving forward and may apply to my current job as a pet sitter, which is very enjoyable, but I need to additional expand. Regards. film streaming
Azeem Bux
Wed, 06/23/2021 - 12:04
Thank you because you have been willing to share information with us. we will always appreciate all you have done here because I know you are very concerned with our. what is the cheapest and best web hosting service
Azeem Bux
Wed, 06/23/2021 - 13:52
This blog is so nice to me. I will keep on coming here again and again. Visit my link as well.. how to increase your youtube subscribers
Azeem Bux
Wed, 06/23/2021 - 14:37
It is included in my habit that I often visit blogs in my free time, so after landing on your blog. I have thoroughly impressed with it and decided to take out some precious time to visit it again and again. Thanks. http://www.articles.mybikaner.com/Articles-of-2020/google-word-coach
Azeem Bux
Thu, 06/24/2021 - 03:43
I have read all the comments and suggestions posted by the visitors for this article are very fine,We will wait for your next article so only.Thanks! selling merchant processing services
Azeem Bux
Thu, 06/24/2021 - 13:21
Someone Sometimes with visits your blog regularly and recommended it in my experience to read as well. The way of writing is excellent and also the content is top-notch. Thanks for that insight you provide the readers! 안전놀이터
Azeem Bux
Sat, 06/26/2021 - 04:35
Pretty good post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your blog posts. Any way I'll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon. Big thanks for the useful info. 먹튀검증
Azeem Bux
Sun, 06/27/2021 - 03:55
I was reading your article and wondered if you had considered creating an ebook on this subject. Your writing would sell it fast. You have a lot of writing talent. apkpure
Azeem Bux
Sun, 06/27/2021 - 12:08
A very excellent blog post. I am thankful for your blog post. I have found a lot of approaches after visiting your post. 카지노
Azeem Bux
Thu, 07/08/2021 - 08:08
I am jovial you take pride in what you write. It makes you stand way out from many other writers that can not push high-quality content like you. http://www.articles.studio9xb.com/Articles-of-2020/why-choose-nursing-jobs-saudi-arabia
Azeem Bux
Sat, 07/10/2021 - 13:22
An interesting dialogue is price comment. I feel that it is best to write more on this matter, it may not be a taboo topic however usually individuals are not enough to talk on such topics. To the next. Cheers. zetamatic.com
Azeem Bux
Sat, 07/10/2021 - 14:00
You understand your projects stand out of the crowd. There is something unique about them. It seems to me all of them are brilliant. bayfront.com.sg
Azeem Bux
Sat, 07/17/2021 - 08:28
There is so much in this article that I would never have thought of on my own. Your content gives readers things to think about in an interesting way. Thank you for your clear information. quantum chemistry assignment help
Azeem Bux
Tue, 07/20/2021 - 03:55
There is so much in this article that I would never have thought of on my own. Your content gives readers things to think about in an interesting way. Thank you for your clear information. บาคาร่า
Azeem Bux
Thu, 07/29/2021 - 06:43
Nice to be visiting your blog once more, it has been months for me. Well this article that ive been waited for therefore long. i want this article to finish my assignment within the faculty, and it has same topic together with your article. Thanks, nice share. https://hostinglelo.in/
Azeem Bux
Thu, 07/29/2021 - 07:29
This is my first visit to your web journal! We are a group of volunteers and new activities in the same specialty. Website gave us helpful data to work. visit here
Azeem Bux
Thu, 07/29/2021 - 08:10
I’m going to read this. I’ll be sure to come back. thanks for sharing. and also This article gives the light in which we can observe the reality. this is very nice one and gives indepth information. thanks for this nice article... WACbest coaching for ias
Azeem Bux
Fri, 07/30/2021 - 03:30
I am glad you take pride in what you write. This makes you stand way out from many other writers that push poorly written content. https://sites.google.com/view/best-vitamin-c-serum-india/
Azeem Bux
Sat, 07/31/2021 - 08:24
Your article has piqued a lot of positive interest. I can see why since you have done such a good job of making it interesting. https://www.robynehemingway.com/2021/06/what-actually-is-ashford-formula.html