Debbie, your post brought tears to my eyes.

I regret not letting my boys have a dog we were asked to take in years ago. The dog got a good home but I've always wished I had just said "yes" and gone with the flow. Actually, it was more me going along with their Dad saying "no" but I could have spoken up. I remember the look of disappointment in their eyes. I almost wish they had flung a fit or gotten sassy with me.....but they didn't. They just looked so disappointed.