Hi neighbors. I'm Boo.

I've spent the last five and a half years becoming very good at a few things.

Sleeping in. Soaking up sunshine. Making friends. And reminding my family not to take life too seriously.

Honestly, it's a great life.

I'm a French Bulldog, and around my house you'll hear me called Boo, Booster, or Lil' Boo. I'll answer to any of them, especially if treats are involved.

My family includes Casey, Lauren, Madeline, and Colin, and while people often ask who my favorite person is, the answer is pretty simple: whoever is sitting beside me, scratching my ears, or offering me a snack.

I love everybody.

That's just who I am.

A few weeks before Christmas in 2020, Mom had been looking at French Bulldog puppies because she thought my older brother, Scout, needed a companion. Dad kept insisting they didn't need another dog.

Then, he surprised Mom with me.  A perfect Christmas for everyone!

As for my name, there are two competing stories, and at this point I'm not sure anyone knows which one is true.

Mom says she was talking with friends about dog names when someone suggested keeping a To Kill a Mockingbird theme since they already had Scout. Dad says I was named after his great-grandmother, whose nickname was Boo.

Personally, I like both stories.

And considering I'm white like a ghost, the origins of my name are folklore.

French Bulldogs are known for being affectionate companions with expressive faces and playful personalities. That describes me pretty well.

I like being with my people.

If they're sitting, I'd like to sit nearby.

If they're relaxing, I'd like to relax too.

If they're leaving the house, I'd prefer they reconsider.

One of my favorite moments each day is hearing someone come home. As soon as I hear the door open, I grab the closest toy and bring it to them. It's my way of saying, "Welcome back. I've missed you!"

Now, let's talk about my daily routine.

Some dogs wake up before sunrise, ready to conquer the day.

That sounds exhausting.

When it's cold and dark outside, I prefer to sleep in. Some mornings Mom has to wake me up at 10:00.

Eventually I'll head outside, take care of business, eat breakfast, and then settle in for what I consider one of life's greatest gifts: a good nap.

Later, I'll wake up and probably take another one.

I've found a system that works.

But when the weather is beautiful, everything changes.

That's when you'll find me standing by the door waiting for someone to let me outside so I can stretch out in the sunshine.

I LOVE sunbathing.

Some dogs chase tennis balls. Some dogs herd sheep. I soak up Vitamin D.

Everybody has a calling.

There is one topic, however, that occasionally creates a little tension between me and Mom.

The couch.

For years, it was one of my favorite places to nap.

Then Mom bought a new sofa.

Apparently, because my grandparents are allergic to me, I'm no longer supposed to sleep there.

When Mom is home, I do my best to respect the rules.

When Mom leaves, however...

Well, let's just say the sofa and I remain very close.

When I'm feeling adventurous, I enjoy walking around the pond and visiting my friend Clyde next door. Sometimes we play. Sometimes I check to see if he has any new toys or bones I can borrow. 

The borrowing is usually temporary. Most of the time.

If you've ever walked past my house, there's a good chance you've seen me coming your way.

Mom and Dad call it ignoring them.

I call it being neighborly.

The truth is, if I see someone walking by, especially with another dog, I can't help myself. I'll put my ear muffs on, tune out whatever instructions are being given, and make my way to the sidewalk.

Not because I'm causing trouble.

Because I think everyone deserves a greeting.

Looking back, maybe I was always destined to be a bit of a character.

One year, I dressed up as the Pope for Halloween.

My family thought it was hilarious.

Personally, I thought I looked distinguished.

At the end of the day, life doesn't have to be complicated.

Give me a sunny spot in the yard.

A comfortable place to nap.

A few treats.

A toy to carry around.

My family nearby.

And a neighbor or two to say hello to.

That's really all I need.

So if you see me around the pond or making my way toward the sidewalk while Mom and Dad are calling my name, don't worry.

I'm not causing trouble.

I'm just being myself.

And if I've learned anything in my five and a half years, it's this:

Life is better with Boo.