Man's Best Friend

One family member who hasn't received too much mention in the blog has been Alstott, our beloved puggle (half pug, half beagle).  Alstott, who's named after a former Purdue football player, was hand-selected by Damon shortly after we were married.  This "little dog" that we expected to max out at 15 pounds is now over 30 pounds, but is one of the most loveable dogs you can imagine.  Everyone who meets Alstott always remembers him...he has quite the personality to say the least.

Alstott has been a remarkable dog - - I will never forget how nervous everyone was when Alexa was born.  Alsott had been like an only child for four years, so we were not expecting the warmest reception  to a new baby in the house.  The dog surprised everyone, and he has always been good with Alexa, even when she hasn't exactly been gentle with him.  Alexa's first word was "Alstott" - I remember I had to explain to her Montessori teachers in NJ that Alstott was indeed a legitimate word and the name of her dog, as they initially had no idea what she meant when she said his name.

Alstott's good behavior continued with Granty, and I think Grant was just as enamored with Alstott as Alexa was when she was a baby.  Grant loved to reach for and pet Alstott (maybe that's how Granty grew to love minky fabrics...) and would watch him intently whenever the dog was nearby.  Alstott was extremely protective of Granty, as when our friend was over with his dog, Alstott made sure the other dog came nowhere near Grant.

I think Alstott senses Grant's loss or at least senses the sadness that Damon and I feel.  Ever since Granty passed away, Alstott has been more cuddly with me than ever, and he's never far from my side when I'm home.  If he sees me crying at night, he's always quick to jump in my lap and offer some comfort.  Tonight he was laying by the door of Grant's room for no particular reason; this is not his usual spot - Alstott much prefers a soft bed or couch to the travertine floors.  I even opened the door to G's room to see if Alstott wanted something in there, but he remained firmly planted in the doorway.  Maybe he too just needed some time to think about Granty.....

The Hovannisian "boys"

Watching Granty closely - probably hoping for some food.