Happy 7th Birthday Avery!

Yesterday was Avery's 7th birthday. Her Daddy bought her a couple of new toys and she was able to cheat on her diet. She went on a long walk and a car ride, so all in all a great day for her. Before Alan and I met, Bree told me she was moving in with him and he had a lab. I was kinda bummed because I told her I would never be able to hang out at his house since he had a dog. From the time I was 2 years old, I developed allergies to dogs, cats...you name it. I also develped asthma. Growing up, I was always the kid that had to leave slumber parties, friend's houses, etc if the owners had animals because my asthma would flare up, eyes would swell, and I would be on my breathing treatments in no time. I have always been hypersensitive to labs in particular. Although I am fortunate as things could always be or have been worse than that health problem, it was definitely not fun and there were many scary times. I have always said this health issue keeps me from having a zoo since I LOVE animals. So back to my point, since I have never been able to be in a home with animals, I prepared myself for short visits to hang out with Bree. I knew she wanted me to meet Alan, but in the back of my mind I was thinking it could never work because he had a dog and I can't be around an inside dog. I know that sounds weird but it is always something I had to consider. At the time, Alan was traveling a lot for work, so I would go over and hang out with Bree. I was noticing that my breathing was doing pretty well, crossing my fingers. So I started hanging out there more and more, (especially since Alan was starting to crush on me at this point:)) and my asthma was in control. I remember calling my Mom saying how crazy it was I could be around this dog. Low and behold, a year and a half later I have a four legged shadow that I can't imagine not having. I can't begin to explain how much I adore this dog...and I know it is mutual! Alan has moments of jealousy since she was his baby for years before I came in the picture;) She is my cuddle bunny, boo bear, baby girl, and the list goes on! Do I think it was fate? Absolutely! I am still allergic to animals and I can still only be in houses with animals for a short amount of time, so when we leave because I can't breathe, I'm not lying! I can't explain it but I'm thankful.