What Has Possessed Me?

THAT day has come.  I thought we had a little longer, but somewhere, somehow, the seed had been planted within her. 

We weren't ready for it and really don't know how to deal.

We're perplexed.  Stumped.  And have no good response to the tearful, huffy, longing for...

(wait for it)

(you've probably guessed it)

...a dog.

*sigh*

Having never been a dog-owner, and having no recollection of wanting a dog of my own (mom, dad, feel free to chime in here), I'm having a hard time wrapping my head around the idea. 

How do you explain to a toddler that it's not the right time?  Or when it will be the right time?  That it costs money, involves research and thoughtful planning.

We told her she'd have to help save some of her "monies" in her piggy bank.  So, she finds two quarters, puts them in her bank, looks at us and asks, "now, can we get a puppy?" "No baby, you'll have to be patient."

And through a waterfall of tears and the saddest, most pained voice, "But I want a dog NOOOOWWWWW."

The is the first time we've seen her want something so badly.  We hear it at least once a day.  Every time we leave the house, "are we going to get a puppy?"  It's heartbreaking.

There may be a beta fish in our future to buy us some time.