This purebred little ball of black and white energy is the newest member of our family. He is the closest thing Joe and I have had to raising a child thus far. Thoughtfully named after Sheldon, a TV character portrayed as a genius, he is too intelligent for his own good. Sheldon learns quickly, has the smarts to make independent decisions, and demonstrates bravery that borders on danger. With his marble eyes and crooked ears that don't quite stand up yet, he is undoubtedly a sympathetic, lovable character no matter the action in question. After burrowing into the covers at night, and reemerging in the morning full of kisses and wiggling excitement, he reminds me why dogs become a crucial part of our families... the demonstration of unconditional love. I am looking forward to watching him grow deeper into our family over time.