This morning the next wave happened. I took Ringo out to go potty early in the morning and when I put him back in his crate he had himself a little pity party, fussing and whining and even some barking. I knew this shift was coming, that it doesn’t take long for the bond to start forming. His let me out of here is no longer driven by “I don’t want to be alone” but now is more about “I want to be with you.”

Waking at 4:15 am to soft puppy whines. I put on my bathrobe and shoes, get Ringo out of his crate. It’s so dark, I have to judge where he is by feel. When I hit soft fur, a warm round belly, I tuck my hands under his armpits and lift him out. We walk down the dark hallway, him kissing me and whimpering, tiny feet touching my face. Outside, the sky is clear and full of stars, the moon so bright I don’t need to wear my head lamp. The cool air feels fresh, this moment easy and calm. When he’s finished, he comes over and sits at my feet. I scoop him back up and we make our way back to bed.