Bernita, I am so glad you found Michelle's blog and in doing so Michelle was able to share you and Punkin with us.  

I love your story and in many ways it is similar to ours.  Hubby was not wanting to get another dog because when we had to say goodbye to our beloved Whippet, Griffin, the pain of his loss took a long time to heal.   Then after many years passed I convinced him we should just go to the shelter and look.  When they put our little Teddy in my arms he let out a deep sigh of contentment and I burst into tears. The trainer who put him in our arms said that was the Shih Tzu equivalent of purring.  He felt safe!  He had been so terribly abused and neglected.  We helped to bring him back to life and he has filled our lives with laughter.  He makes us laugh every day.  Like your Punkin he sleeps curled up next to his Daddy between us in our bed.  

By the way, Teddy is Bella's canine uncle and when she comes to visit they enjoy each other's company.  We will have to wait until Christmas to see Bella again and Michelle when they will come home for the holidays .  She is a good little traveler.    

Bernita, I loved your story and you have the gift of the written word.  Thanks for sharing your story.