February 22, 2022

We knew it would take Roman some time to be comfortable with a new recruit in the family; we have a plan in place to ease his stress, keep everyone safe, and applaud his steps forward. Lilly has proven patient and nonreactive to his bursts of loud threatening bravado. I think she, at some level, understands; she gives Roman some opportunities to verbally vent on her then calmly moves out of his sight so he can gather his composure. 

It is clear already that Zsofia could not ask for two better captains to assist in the daily running of the White Dog Army. Bailey and Lilly are gentle, mellow girls with good intuition who direct by using their size as a "presence" to steer good choices rather than to bully.

Yesterday their "cool" was tested by the littlest member of the WDA. Diva decided that since Roman was gated that it fell upon HER to carry the displeasure to the new girl. When Roman growled, Diva growled. When Roman barked, Diva barked. Lilly's reaction was sort of "isn't this cute" until the Tiny Terror took a run at her and tried to nip. To her credit, Lilly came and hopped up on the bed.

When Diva attempted to follow, she found herself caught up in momma's arms. "We do NOT treat each other like that!" I used my momma voice so she understood the big trouble she was in. "You, too, can wear a muzzle and be gated if need be. I am VERY angry and you need to go in timeout for a while. And no, dad is not going to save you." Steve lifted her into her bedtime crib and shook his head sadly. "You can come out when momma says so," he answered her pitiful cry. "And if you do it again, you will be sorry. Roman does not need a thug buddy."

Message received...at least so we hope. For now, calm reigns. Time and love.