-Isms: Original views on life from rural America

Since Scott and I have been married, we've had one pet, a chocolate lab named Copper. When she died a few years ago, the thought of bringing another pet into our home never crossed our minds. How could she be replaced? She'd been a loyal companion ever since someone dropped her off in our driveway at the farm.

A few years ago, Elizabeth and I suggested we adopt a dog from the local shelter. The newsroom could use a news hound. Someone to keep us company while we pound out the paper on deadline day and beyond.

That suggestion did not go well with Scott, who was quick to let us know there would...