Introducing:

Little R, Mrs. H, and Hopper

Hopper (gold/black tail), Little R (orange/black tail), Mrs. H (orange)

Well, Robert and I tried to hold out, but we could not. So, earlier today, we bought our FIRST EVER, TO KEEP, P E T S!!!!!(It only took nearly 8 years of marriage and 6 1/2 years of parenting!)

Pre-Pet Giggles and Excitement

There was NO turning back. . . Of they go!

Before they were purchased, we spoke at length with the 'Fishy Person' about choices and she re-assured us, and the kiddos MANY times if we make poor choices and/or bad decisions, that Little R, Mrs. H, and Hopper CAN and WILL be returned. I just hope that is enough motivation to continue the good choices and wise decisions!

At first, we went back and forth - do we want to get a bigger tank? Different toys? 1 big or 3 smaller fish? Finally we settled on Platys. There were many varieties, so each kiddo picked their own:

• Robert chose one that is bright orange with black fins and tail.

Little R's last moments with his old family

• Hannah chose one that is a lighter orange with almost yellow/gold tail and fins with a black mickey on her tail!

Hannah selecting hers!

• Wesley chose, well, we actually chose for him, and gold/white platy with a black mickey tail as well

Wesley was excited!

Because you can not go to PetSmart without visiting the birds and tailed creatures, we did that as well!

Wesley was 'talking' to the birds!

'LOOK! There are B I R D S!!!!!'

Wesley was in a complete trance with this guinea pig!

Robert was confused as to why he only ran in circles!

After we finished touring the store, we headed home to introduce our brand new pets to their home. The kiddos could NOT wait!

After MULTIPLE attempts, this was the best picture we could get!

We followed all of the instructions and after 15 (or so) minutes, we were ready to pour them in! The kids were full of anxiety and giggles - it was a sight!

We quickly put the lid on just in time for "Fishy" to try and jump out, gaining the new name of "Hopper!" They have now been in their new home for a bit. Little R and Mrs. H seem to be adjusting VERY well. They ate a little and are swimming and exploring - Hopper however, I think is a bit confused, or depressed as he is only hiding in the fake plant. . . or maybe he has a head injury from hitting the top of the tank so hard!