Mai Tai, Chihuahua, and Tiny Puppy

It all started with Mai Tai.

The real little pup that Layne loves.  The bug-eyed, drooly one that we said goodbye to in Atlanta.

Layne loves that little animal.  She would ask to talk to Mai Tai when we would call Mimi.  She still talks about her to make sure she knows exactly where she is.  We repeat, Mai Tai is living with Uncle Seany.  The real puppy is at Uncle Seany's house.

This little stuffed version does not leave Layne's side.  Abbey and I had the idea to find her a Pug Webkinz for Christmas.  We called all around and found a store that had one.  It was so fun to see her open it up and in the last 2 months, it is hands down the most well-loved toy of all the presents she opened.

And then came Chihuahua.  Dad and Landen found this one for Layne.  They bought it as a back-up just in case we didn't locate a Pug.  It didn't get wrapped up because the Pug was under the tree, but Layne found him anyway and added him to her collection.

Then came Tiny Puppy.  I have no idea where this one came from.  She found this amongst all the toys that have a home here at our house.

This is how she sleeps.  All 3 puppies must be found before she will lay down.

If we run to the store, one, two, or three of them join us in the car.  If I want to live dangerously, she gets to bring one in with her.  So far, we haven't lost one anywhere, but I'm really afraid of what will happen if one should go missing!

If they stay in the car, then Layne will make sure and tell everyone she meets that she has a puppy named Mai Tai.  The checker at the store gets to hear about her puppy.  The ladies in line behind us.  My chiropractor couldn't even get her name before she was telling him all about Mai Tai.  It's not an easy name for people to understand.  And when they do, they always give me a curious look.  How in the world does a 3 year old come up with a name like Mai Tai?!  They must think we serve cocktails at the dinner table!

I love her imagination.  I love how she cares for these 3 puppies.  We have had a few chats about maybe not talking to complete strangers about her stuffed animals, but it's good for a laugh!  I love how hilarious she is.  I don't want this one to ever grow up and not be my side-kick.  My side-kick with her 3 little side-kicks.