Hello Linda and welcome from south central Kentucky. I am sorry for your loss. My grandson wants an English Bulldog for his birthday next year. He will be 13. He wants to name him Bronx (he is a Yankee fan)! My boss has 3 parrots at his house and brings "Cookie" to work with him sometimes. I am sure after teaching for 33 years you will miss it, but keep yourself busy and enjoy yourself. Again, Welcome!!