How it all began

Every discussion about a dog ended with the same arguments: little children, absorbing work, no way. Besides, who would take it for a walk at 6 a.m.?

Children were growing up, the absorbing work was getting even more absorbing and in order not to go mad we had to change something. Jasiek, known for not being fond of four-legged creatures, started taking children to a pet shop (?!) and direct their attention towards a tortoise (considering it to be an inoffensive little creature).

Luckily, we were visited by a cousin – a real authority on the subject. We accepted the necessity of buying a professional terrarium. Jasiek gave in when it came to a tray with warm water for putting tortoise’s bottom in to help it relieve itself. 

It was the year 2003 and there were no symptoms of change. The work absorbed us more and more...

Next spring I got impatient and decided to get a professional advice (about a dog, of course). I went to a local branch of the Kennel Club. A lady with nasty catarrh was flooded by me with a number of questions concerning a dog breed – the one meeting my modest expectations.

A creature was to be of a very soft character, neither too big or too small, but rather a big one. Short, harsh fur was unacceptable. Abundant fur was to be soft, perfect for stroking and hugging, while the dog was to be a family companion. Moreover the dog was: not to salivate, not to dig holes in the garden, not to piss on plants, not to smell too badly and not to bark too much...

The lady was looking at me with surprise but I found nothing inappropriate in my speech. You should clearly express your expectations (all handbooks recommend that). 

I was so involved in my speech that I did not notice young people standing nearby. A young man joined the conversation.

I think we have a perfect dog for you – he said.

By the end of the week I arranged a trip to the specified place. Children only (sweet little angels, they had not uttered a word to their father) were involved in the operation. I learnt about Bernese Mountain Dogs from Tuesday’s conversation. I could see their picture on a business card. 
- I smell dog’s sh... – remarked Jasiek when were getting near the door.

We were welcomed by Holly - beautiful, graceful, tame. She waived her great, fluffy tail, sniffed us and quietly went away.

The very next moment Jasiek bent over little mites. When he sat down with a two-week old Josh on his lap Holly approached him and licked his hand. Just then (I know the exact date) all of us went completely crazy about Josh.

And it hasn’t changed since then…