“Hi, Zoe! You ready for your bath?” I ask.

Zoe: “Not particularly. I think I’ll nap for a while longer, thanks,” as she looks up at me with a yawn.

“Sorry, kiddo, you have to get into the tub. Angie is waiting for you by the little tub, she’s got your towels all warmed up and ready to go,” I tell her.

Zoe: “Water nice and comfortable, too?”

“Of course,” I reply.

Zoe: “Fine, carry me.”

“You’ll feel reinvigorated after your bath, I promise, and you can nap when we’re done. I’ll wake you when your Dad comes,” I say.

Zoe: “Fine, but I want an extra treat.”

“That’s fair. I have a pretty dress for you to wear that’s just your size for the picture,” I tell her.

Zoe: “I’ll decide if it’s pretty.”

After her bath, I put Zoe on the table to finish her groom.

Zoe: “Where’s my after-bath treat?”

“Ahh yes, I almost forgot. Here you are, dear,” I say.

Zoe: “Better. OK, let’s get this show on the road. I have a nap to take.”

“But of course, my tiny bossy girl,” I reply.

Zoe looks at me unsure if that was a compliment but sees my grin and remembers I’ve told her that sassy dogs are always my favorites.

“OK, I know you hate getting your nails done, but we’ll do it quickly and I’ll make sure you have your gorgeous little round feet,” I say.

Zoe: “I do have beautiful feet.”

I laugh as I finish her nail trim and give her a tiny treat.

Zoe: “Small enough?” And she gives me a side-eye.

“Hey, you’re getting an extra in the picture room. I don’t want you to get an upset stomach,” I tell her.

I finish her haircut and we head to the picture room.

“Like this dress?” I ask as I hold up a heart-covered dress for her to inspect.

Zoe: “I do!”

I slide the dress over her head and ask her to look at the camera.

Zoe poses for the camera and doesn’t move while I get the shot.

“You really are adorable,” I admit.

I take her out from behind the kissing booth and she gives me a tiny kiss.

Zoe: “You love me.”

“Yes, I do, my sassy little friend,” I reply.

Zoe: “So, about those treats…”

And with a sigh I reply,