September 30, 2017

White Dog answered window-watching Pearl's announcement with a call to attention and the White Dog Army flooded to the front door and windows to greet Steve's arrival. Pumpkin, our van, pulled smoothly to a stop just past the window view and the excitement built.

I smiled as I looked up to see a Darker White Dog balanced behind Pearl and Bella on the watching chair. Zso usually does that to make sure it is Dad before she bounds off the chair and rallies with the others at the door.

Only it wasn't her. It was Bailey.

Our new recruit has from the start participated in the Dad Ritual but on the ground just inside the room. Once Steve enters, she comes forward to receive her attention. This was the first time Bailey actually joined in.

I saw Zsofia take note of this progress but later she confided a bit of frustration that Bai is not yet a singer. "I can hardy get that girl to woo at all," Zso said.  White Dog walked up as I was about to answer. "You have done a great job mentoring, sister. It helps of course that Bailey is smart and a natural fit for the WDA. But Time and Love, remember. Time and Love will get you where Bailey needs to be."

And Bailey? I scratched her ears and cupped her face. "What a lovely welcome for dad," I told her, "You are SUCH a good girl!"

Her reaction? Beams of happiness as she headed into the office to help Steve change into play clothes.