Every family has its own rhythm, its own blend of laughter, noise, and tender moments. My daughter’s household of four was already filled with the joy of little feet belonging to her two children, aged 4 and 7. Into this lively mix, a new character has arrived: Rudi, a gangly labradoodle pup with more energy than sense.
Born at the end of January, Rudi has quickly made his presence felt. With his long legs, big furry paws, and endless curiosity, he is the kind of pup who seems to double in size overnight. Training classes have taught him the basics, but like any youngster, he has his own ideas about what counts as fun. Digging holes in the lawn, pinching shoes, and splashing into the pond for a fresh drink are all high on his list.
The children adore him, of course. He is their mischievous partner in crime, always ready to chase, tumble, or share in a giggle. Yet like many puppies, Rudi still has soft, growing bones, so his long walks must be limited. Instead, he makes up for it with bursts of play, followed by long naps wherever he can stretch out. Napping is not so easy when you share a bountiful household with children, but somehow he manages.
Rudi is also curious, and although gentle, his size can be overwhelming, and his interest in my cat Teddy is not very welcome. With all the exuberance of a pup who only wants to say hello, he bounds over to Teddy at every chance. Poor Teddy, unimpressed by such enthusiasm, takes off in haste and hides in the quiet undergrowth of the garden borders where peace can still be found.
“Rudi is both a handful and a heartful… teaching us patience, presence, and the joy of being here and now.”
For me, as his proud Grandpawma, Rudi is both a handful and a heartful. There is something very human in the way he dislikes being parted from us, sticking close as if to remind us that he belongs in the thick of family life. On walks by the beach or through the countryside, he trots alongside, both sniffing out new scents and sharing in the Nettle Revolution inspiration that seems to flow best when we are moving together in nature.
He has many brothers from his litter, and my daughter has been lucky enough to stay in touch with some of their families. It is sweet to know he is not the only whirlwind of paws and wagging tails out there, learning life alongside his siblings in other homes.
As he grows, Rudi is already teaching us lessons in patience, presence, and unconditional love. Puppies have a way of making you laugh even as you sigh, of pulling you into the here and now when life feels too busy. He may be mischievous, but he is also a reminder of what matters most: family, joy, and the simple wonder of living creatures who share our journey.
So here’s to Rudi, the latest addition to our family. May his big paws grow into steady steps, and may he continue to fill our days with both chaos and delight.
We love you, Rudi boy!
🎥 Want to meet Rudi in motion with his Grandpawma? Watch him over on YouTube.