I spent the week with my sister's family. It now includes a miniature pinscher, and she was making the case for me to get one of my own. I think she's given up on finding me a husband and now wants to get me a dog so I'm not all alone.

I have to admit, she's got me considering a dog again. I'd put it off because my yard isn't fenced and my house is kind of small. Plus with my on and off health issues I wasn't sure I could handle a big dog. Oh - and I wasn't interested in getting a little yippy dog.

But little Duke really stole my heart. So now I'm thinking about it seriously. My mom's not thrilled with the idea. My dad's in favor. They both make good points.

A dog is a big responsibility, and minpins can live like 16 years. Oof. And then when dogs die it's just heartbreaking.

But it would be kind of nice to have someone to take walks with. I don't know, the debate continues.