Long Island Family Ties A Balloon To Their Senior Pup And Melts Everyone’s Heart
At 16 years old, Marley has been through it all with his people, always right by their side for every birthday, holiday, and lazy Sunday on the couch.
This lovable Yorkipoo is the soul of the Stockhausen household.
So, when the family gathered at their Long Island home to celebrate an engagement, everyone knew Marley had to be part of the fun.
But this time, he didn’t just join the party; he floated right into the spotlight.
As guests arrived, they couldn’t help but laugh and smile. There was Marley, trotting around the backyard with a bright balloon tied to his collar, bobbing above his head like his own little spotlight.
It wasn’t a magic trick or a fancy decoration. It was simply a clever idea with a sweet purpose.
The balloon was just there to make sure no one accidentally stumbled over this sweet old pup taking her time around.
In an interview, Alexa Stockhausen explained how it came to be:
“He’s still all about being the life of the party, so we didn’t want to leave him out. The balloon was the perfect way to let him join in on the fun while keeping him safe.”
The idea actually came from Alexa’s sister, Erica, whose engagement they were celebrating that day. It worked perfectly, everyone loved it, and Marley got all the attention he secretly lives for. Alexa added:
“They adored it. Marley’s already a fan favourite, and they know he’s getting up there in age.”
The balloon might’ve been a funny touch, but it served an important purpose, too: keeping Marley safe. Alexa said:
“No one tripped, so I’d call it a 10 out of 10. He wore it all day, no problem!”
And in true Marley fashion, the balloon wasn’t just any balloon. It read “BEWARE OF DOG”, which was a hilarious contrast to Marley’s soft, snuggly personality. Alexa continued:
“He doesn’t like being alone, so I’m sure he prefers being right there with everyone.”
Marley has been part of the family since Alexa was in eighth grade, after years of begging her mom for a puppy. From the moment he came home, he fit right in.
He’s loyal, affectionate, and happiest when surrounded by his people, as his mom said:
“He’s always been such a people dog. If we’re on the couch, you better believe he’s right there with us.”
When Alexa eventually moved back home after living in New York City, Marley couldn’t have been happier. She lovingly calls him her “Muppet,” and the nickname fits him perfectly: a little scruffy, endlessly lovable, and always making everyone smile.
Sure, Marley has slowed down a bit with age, but his spirit hasn’t dimmed one bit. In his heart, he’s still a happy little boy.
He may not move as fast as he once did, but he still manages to stay right in the middle of all the laughter, love, and sweet memories with his family.
Sometimes, it’s not the grand gestures that make a celebration; it’s a little dog with a balloon who reminds everyone what pure joy really looks like.
