Ode to a Mini Schnauzer

Getting a dog is one of the best things my family has ever done. And maybe one of the worst. But I think you'll see why we decided to see our canine glass as half full.

Here are some of the dog-related problems:

• He smells. Bad.
• He eats everything. Rocks, garbage, shoes, my student's mom's bag. In 6 months he's had a billion vet visits, 2 xrays and 1 overnight hospital stay with a $3000 endoscopy to get a rock out of his stomach. 
• He gets all the furniture dirty.



Waiting for the Picasso's Basement Kids to arrive!

• Did I mention that he smells?

Here is what he has given us: 

1. Unconditional love.
2. Smiles from my kids when I wake them for school. Including my 13 year old. Enough said.
3. A mascot for the Picasso's Basement classes. He sits at the childrens feet and watches them make art. Then he eats some erasers. 
4. Unconditional love.
5. Moments of unbridled cuteness, particularly when playing with his toy Hulk Hand.
6. Companionship.
7. Unconditional love.

AND a constant source of drawing material! Here's what my 8 year old created: 

Once my son draws you you know you are really part of the family!