Puppy names

More than two weeks have already passed since Maggie died. While we think of her often, the worst of the grieving stages are behind us. We're now able to look ahead and start searching online for breeders. Our plan is to adopt two golden retriever puppies, most likely later this summer after our vacation. We'd like to get a male and a female from the same litter (i.e. not for breeding).

AJ and Sydney are extremely excited, and have been busy brainstorming names. Mommy and Daddy, meanwhile, have been busy exercising our veto power.

Right now, we're leaning toward Molly and Gus. Molly seems to have unanimous approval. Gus is liked by all but AJ.

Here's a partial list of AJ's suggestions. He seems to alternate between literal and bizarre:

• Woof Dog
• Hoppy
• Will
• Al
• Brown Tail
• Captain Woofs a Lot
• Little Eye
• Sally ("It can be the boy dog's name," he insisted.)
• Baby S ("Thank you, stop sign, for giving me a good idea," AJ proclaimed.)

I've tried not to be overly negative as I shot down name after name. At one point AJ seemed to give up, suggesting, "Let's just think about it when we get it." But then he immediately came up with a couple other unique ideas.

It keeps them busy. It keeps them happy. Just like what the puppies will do.