Since July 2012, our family has called this vibrant community home. Over the years, we've developed a cherished bond with our neighbors and friends, creating a tapestry of experiences and memories that we hold dear. But our home wasn’t truly complete until the arrival of our lovable four-legged companion, Coco Champion Bowen. 

Coco is a Mini Australian Mountain Doodle, and she just celebrated her second birthday! Her journey into our lives is nothing short of serendipitous. After the heartbreaking loss of our two beloved dogs in 2023 and 2024, we felt that there was an unmistakable void that needed to be filled. Love for another pup tugged at our hearts, leading us to search for a new furry family member. Combing through listings online, fate intervened when we stumbled upon Coco from a breeder in Sterling. Little did we know that our neighbors were also in the process of adopting from the same litter! They were welcoming their own fluffy friend, a charming pup named Nelson. It seems that the universe not only conspired to unite us with Coco but also to intertwine our furry families. 

Upon bringing Coco home, I couldn't help but share her joyful arrival on social media. In a delightful twist, another neighbor reached out, expressing her desire to adopt Coco's sister, who was still looking for a home. I connected her with the breeder, and soon Rehmy joined our community, creating a trio of adorable playmates! Coco, Nelson, and Rehmy now enjoy endless playdates and celebrate their birthdays together, forging a sibling bond that's truly heartwarming. 

The day we adopted Coco was unexpectedly special; it was also the day Coco Gauff claimed her first Grand Slam victory. My husband jokingly suggested we name our new puppy Coco, and it felt perfect. We truly wanted to honor her spirit, so we added “Champion” as her middle name, a nod to the recent Denver Nuggets Championship victory, a team very close to our hearts! Coco’s features are as striking as her name suggests. The breeder affectionately referred to her captivating blue eyes as "ghost eyes," and they are indeed mesmerizing, shining with a lively sparkle that draws everyone in. Her playful nature and high-energy spirit add a joyful element to our lives. 

Coco is a true fetch aficionado. Her favorite pastime is racing after her beloved squeaky ball, which she adores far more than the countless toys in her basket. In true fanfare style, we celebrated Coco’s first birthday with a grand party filled with presents, delicious treats, and festive decorations. My adult children often chuckle at my enthusiasm, playfully labeling me as ‘crazy,’ but every wag of Coco’s tail is worth the celebration! It’s no wonder that they find it amusing, especially when I turn on “dog TV”; Coco is utterly enthralled, following the antics of her fellow canines on screen as if she’s part of their world! 

The bonds Coco has formed extend beyond her siblings. She delights in the company of her doggy friends, Rosie and Mango, who have become like family. Each week, Diana Levy, a fellow resident and the owner of More Than A Dog, takes the pups for an adventurous day at the park. Tuesdays are sacred in our household; Coco’s excitement as Diana arrives is contagious, as she plays and explores her surroundings with her furry companions. 

Whether it’s a day filled with playful escapades or cozy moments spent with her people, Coco thrives on companionship. There’s nothing she loves more than being surrounded by her family and friends, both human and canine. Her zest for life amplifies our joy and reminds us of the profound impact that a furry friend can have on our lives. Coco Champion Bowen, with her spirited personality, beautiful blue eyes, and heartwarming antics, has not only filled a void in our home but has woven herself into the fabric of our lives. She embodies joy, love, and the unwavering companionship that dogs so effortlessly provide, making us feel endlessly grateful for each wagging tail and playful bark.