For Katie and Scott Amy and their two children, Ansley Park has been home for 11 years — a place where life’s chapters unfold in meaningful ways.

“We moved to Ansley Park before our oldest child was born,” Katie shares. “While we initially chose the neighborhood for its proximity to Midtown, walkable lifestyle, and closeness to dear friends, we’ve stayed because of the neighbors, parks, variety, and energy.”

That deep sense of belonging only grew stronger this summer with the arrival of Penny, the family’s eight-month-old Australian Labradoodle.

For years, the Amy children — now 8 and 10 — had been enthusiastically campaigning for a puppy. When the family finally began their search, they discovered River Days Labradoodles in North Carolina and were immediately impressed by the breeder’s thoughtful approach to temperament and care. Before long, Penny was on her way to Ansley Park.

Her name came with a story of its own. Because Katie’s childhood dog was memorably named Corkscrew Gizmo, she knew from experience that she and her husband needed to guide the naming process rather than leave it entirely up to the kids. After a scavenger hunt revealed that a puppy would soon be joining the family, the children were given several carefully selected options to choose from. Over the next few days, they enthusiastically polled friends, neighbors, and anyone willing to weigh in before unanimously landing on Penny — a name that fits her perfectly.  

With her distinctive roan coloring and irresistibly sweet puppy features, Penny rarely makes it down the block unnoticed. Walks often turn into friendly conversations as neighbors stop to admire her coat and learn more about her breed.

While Penny is still discovering her special talents, her enthusiasm for fetch is undeniable. Balls, sticks, and toys of every variety instantly become the focus of her joyful attention.

One of the Amy family’s favorite memories came shortly after Penny spent a month away at training. When she returned home, the children welcomed her with a handmade banner and a basket filled with toys and treats, eager to practice everything she had learned.

“It was incredible to see the love they have for her,” Katie recalls. “We all missed her while she was away.”

Penny’s favorite moments often happen close to home. Sidewalk chats with her friend Mallory and backyard play sessions with next-door neighbor and best friend Vivie are a daily highlight, while walks through Winn Park and McClatchey Park offer endless opportunities to explore.

The family has discovered that Penny has become a natural connector — introducing them to neighbors they might never have met otherwise. As Katie notes, they have met more people while walking their dog than they did strolling with their children.

Outside Ansley Park, Penny is a regular at Supa Dog in Buckhead, a destination beloved by both pups and people. Dog-friendly soft-serve ice cream is a favorite treat for Penny and the children alike, while Katie appreciates the practical perks: a freshly bathed, happily exhausted puppy at pickup and convenient chef-prepared meals available to bring home for dinner.

If Penny could choose any adventure, the destination would matter far less than the company. As Katie puts it, 

“As long as it’s with her people, Penny would go anywhere.”

In the meantime, Penny continues her role as a joyful ambassador for Park Lane — sparking conversations, strengthening connections, and reminding the Amy family that sometimes the smallest additions make the biggest impact.