New Beginnings, Fur Babies, and a Whole Lot of Love
The start of this month has already been full of big moments and even bigger smiles!
On Friday, Beau and I had a fun movie date planned to see Marvel’s Thunderbolts, but before we hit the theater, we made a meaningful stop at the Castaic Animal Shelter. Beau has been talking about getting a dog for as long as I’ve known him—and this time, it wasn’t just for him. It was for us. Our very first fur baby together!
We originally went in to meet an older dog Beau had been eyeing, but after learning that pup had major behavioral challenges and didn’t get along with other dogs, we decided to keep looking. As we walked through the kennels, I spotted two 5-month-old German Shepherd/Labrador mix puppies—and one of them immediately stood out. She was calm, gentle, and had a quiet confidence that made me think, “She’s the one.” It was clear she’d be a perfect match for Beau.
Her shelter name was Cove, and she had been there since late March after being confiscated when her previous owner was arrested. Despite everything she’d been through—including an upper respiratory infection—she was strong, sweet, and ready for a fresh start.
We decided on the name Astrid, and even though we had our movie date that evening, we couldn’t stop thinking about her. First thing the next morning, we were back at the shelter right when it opened to officially bring Astrid home!
Even though she’s under Beau’s name, Astrid lives with me, and Beau sends $80 a month for her food. Seeing how happy and involved he is makes my heart so full—he’s stepping up and showing so much love and commitment, not just to Astrid, but to building a life with me. Watching him light up with his new dog has been one of my favorite things.
Right after the adoption, we took Astrid to Pet Supplies Plus to get her a harness, leash, and custom dog tag with both our phone numbers on it. The store manager was so touched by our story that she gave us 15% off just for adopting! It was such a sweet surprise and felt like a little extra blessing on an already special day.
We spent the weekend helping Astrid settle in and decompress. She’s adjusting beautifully and even passed my baby chick test—she doesn’t bother them at all! She’s incredibly sweet and smart and already signals when she needs to go outside. It’s hard to believe she was in a shelter just days ago.
And speaking of babies… almost a week ago, one of our hens’ fertile eggs hatched! I had to assist with the hatching, and when the hens didn’t take to the chick, I brought the little one inside. My amazing mom made a quick run to Tractor Supply and picked up four more chicks—two chickens and two guineas—that were just a day older. Now, my little hatchling (who I named Cupcake) is thriving with its new siblings!
To top it all off, the week of May 12th, I’ll be welcoming even more new life: 3 ducks (2 girls and 1 boy) and 7 baby chicks are on their way!
It’s shaping up to be a summer full of love, growth, and so many new beginnings. I’m beyond excited to share this chapter with Beau—and with all of you.
With love,
Sammy
