Hi!
Pardon my confusion...I've been on vacation all last week and my brain is still rebelling at having to function again

Am I reading your post correct? You will be getting your puppy at 3 weeks old? If so, please consider leaving him with his Momma until at least 8 weeks old, 10 or 12 is better yet. There is so much they need to learn from their Momma's and it will make your time with him better too. Can't wait to see pictures of him. Do you have any names picked out?
And so sorry for the loss of your Pittie. It's tough losing them wether it's to old age or an illness.