Daisy turns six today. If there was ever a case for optimism this is it. Daisy was a beautiful puppy with a will of iron. A little too smart for her own good. Trainers were no match for Daisy, to say nothing of the two marshmallows who had adopted her. She was determined to show us who was really in charge.

I hate to admit it now, but I almost gave up hope more than once, but Frank never did. Talk about unconditional love! That love and his belief that there was a wonderful dog buried somewhere in that feisty puppy got us through the rougher spots.

Once we relaxed and accepted the fact that she was a Princess, and we were simply here to do her bidding, things settled down.

We’ve weathered grain allergies and hot spots; Lyme Disease and two ACL operations. Frank had the sense early on that pet insurance would be a good idea. Then there’s the dog hair and muddy paws and covered couches waiting for Daisy to decide where she wants to nap.

Were the early struggles and our current lifestyle that includes walks in inclement weather and lack of flexibility worth it? Absolutely.

Daisy, at six, is the best dog anyone could hope for. She’s gentle with the grandkids and kind to the cat. Everyone is her friend. If I’m being honest, I would have to admit that Frank is really the center of her universe. Maybe she knows, somewhere deep down, that he never lost faith in her. He’s her hero.

Happy Birthday, Daisy!