Wow!  What an experience!  Ruthie Mae Mercer had her first litter of puppies this afternoon sometime before 5:30pm this afternoon.  She huddled down in the bottom of my closet (her favorite place to sleep).  Katelyn and I were outside when Bart heard little puppy sounds coming from my closet and came out to get me.  By the time I came to see her she had already had two and one more was born as I sat there with her.  I had been told that due to her small size she may have a hard time with labor and may need a c-section.  She wasn't due until next Sunday and we already had her booked to stay at the vet clinic for the week while we would be out of town in Gatlinburg.  I was so nervous because I didn't quite know what to do in the event something happened.  Luckily she was a trooper and her delivery went very quickly and smoothly.  It appears all three puppies are females.  Here are some pics from the day.  I'm so proud of my little mama!!!


    

...to be BRED!    I'm very late in blogging this fabulous news but on Christmas Eve Ruthie's beloved mate, Aubie, gave her a ring.  Well, Ruthie wasn't actually there to receive the gift firsthand but gladly accepted when we brought it home to her.  Here are some pics showing her excitement.  She couldn't wait to show the big dogs!