I was the baby of the family, too. I can't say that my immediate family was ever judgmental -- but some of my extended family were and I do understand the need to have everyone's approval. Good news is that you can get over it. You made (I assume) an informed decision and can take proper care of the new dog, can't you?So what if they don't approve of your choices?
I remember that it took me a long time to get over the idea that I needed my parents' permission for every big decision I made. I was about your age and asked my dad to help me shop for a car. He sat me down and told me I didn't need his approval and that I needed to learn to make my own decisions because he wouldn't always be there to help me. Then I cried and he went car shopping with me but that's another story.
The point is, that you are an adult and you are ALLOWED to make your own decisions - and, yes, your own mistakes. If you are confident about your decisions and don't let the critics rattle you, they will most likely choose a new target. It's only "fun" to criticize when you get a reaction from your victim.
I hope you have a very happy holiday and enjoy that new little one! |