How did you and Bella first meet, and what drew you to one another?

I have always wanted a Border Collie, they have such a loving soul, sweet nature, so intelligent, fun and playful. I had been following breeders for a while and missed out on a few occasions. Bella was the last of her litter available and she was born on my birthday so it was like it was meant to be, our stars were aligned. She is everything I ever wanted in a Border Collie and so much more.

How would you describe her personality?

Bella is sweet but spirited, gentle and patient but also cheeky and playful. She has some sass about her, knows what she wants and how to get it. She has the most adorable expressive looks and head tilts. She is a reluctant cuddler, but is content as long as I am nearby and will shadow me wherever I go, gently nudging me when she wants some attention or affection.

What ridiculous nicknames do you have for her, and how did she earn them?

Bella is referred to by many affectionate names: Bub, bubba, baby girl, Belle, Bells, Miss Bella, Bella Wella, Bella Boo (usually followed by Mummy loves you or where are you)

What does she love to do the most?

Bella loves to go walkies (and sniff lots) and on car rides, hanging her head out to feel the wind on her face. She loves chasing splashes in the water or anything water related (puddles, sprinklers, hoses, beach, creeks, paddle pools) as long as the water is not too deep and not bath related. She loves to chase bubbles and balls (but not bring them back) and playing tug of war or just playing with her many stuffed toys.

If she could tell us something about you, what would she say?

I think she would probably say something like "Mum pretends to be tough and doesn't like to show emotion but she is really a softie at heart and cares too much".

What's everyday life like with your girl by your side?

Bella brings so much joy to every day. She makes me smile and laugh at the many looks she gives me, she can turn a bad day into a good one. My favourite time is when she chooses to wake me up with a cuddle (picture a soft fluffy puppy on your chest) which will always result in Bella belly scratches and often playful banter with full belly on display. It is the best way to start any day.

What lessons about life or yourself have you learned from Bella?

I have learnt to be more patient and gentle - Bella is very sensitive and responds more to the soft approach, kindness and praise. I have learnt to be more present in the moment, to slow down, to breath in, to look up, to take in the surroundings, to empty the mind./

Bella has given my life something I didn’t even know was missing; purpose. She is the light that brightens even my darkest days. Her presence brings a kind of joy that’s hard to explain — gentle, playful, constant — and her love is truly unwavering. She doesn’t just love me; she sees me, every part of me, and stays beside me anyway.
She’s reminded me that connection doesn’t always have to be loud to be real. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, every day.

She reminds me to live in the moment, to laugh more, to worry less, and to find happiness in the smallest, silliest things. She's shown me that presence matters more than perfection

Most of all, Bella has taught me that I don’t always have to be so tough. She sees through every mood and she loves me anyway. Her loyalty is quiet but fierce. Her soul is gentle, wise, and endlessly forgiving. Being her fur mum is one of the greatest joys of my life.

She is, and always will be, the love of my life in a way only a dog like her could ever be.