If you remember my “Dating, Down Syndrome, and Dreams” post- I started praying about what were some things we can do to ANCHOR Bethany’s life to “enjoying the now.”

[Tweet “God knew we’d need fun and friendship in a warm, cuddly package- #puppies were His answer. “]

One of the surprising possibilities that popped into our paternal pondering was a puppy!

The standing mantra has always been: NO! we’re too busy- NO! there’s too many kids and not enough time to take care of one more thang! NO! I can’t take any more messes!

But- With Bethany’s craving to nurture-

to love and be loved-

maybe a puppy wasn’t such a bad idea.

(sorry kids for all the years of no- and NO- Bethany is not our favorite! 😉 )

Bethany was too afraid to hold Gabe- we almost left the shelter without him.  But she said, No- I really want this dog. I’m gonna get used to him- I promise.

Meet Gabriel Obadiah Barclay- Bethany’s pick of the litter 🙂

But wait- she’s a bit afraid of big dogs even though she says wants one.  Again- maybe a puppy isn’t such a bad idea.

Bethany begins to get brave-  AFTER Gabe is on a halter and leash. lol 🙂

[Tweet “Love works to overcome #fear. #GodsLOVE”]

Puppies are a lot of work- but if Bethany would take the responsibility to care for the puppy- again- maybe a puppy isn’t such a bad idea.

Interestingly, she loves taking care of him; taking him on walks, feeding him, changing his water, taking him out to go to the bathroom, and cuddling him when he’s calm.  She does NOT like hyper.

Maybe a puppy is really “wisdom from above”.

[Tweet “Puppy #love comes in all shapes and sizes- but they come from the heart of our #Father.”]

Another blessing is our house is now more “funner”!

Cohen said, “Nana, your house was always cool and fun but now it’s the best place ever! Thanks for getting me a dog. Wait. It’s my dog too right, Nana?  Cause we share everything in this family!”

Yes- Cohen! Gabe belongs to all of us!

Gabe is enjoying the success of his first “hunt”- he caught an anteater beanie baby

Beth is rockin’ it as a dog owner. Here’s a short video of Bethany training Gabe to sit- stay- and come!

Dogs may be a lot more work and we’ve had to clean up some “accidents” but the overall gain is family fun from our furry friend.  You picked a great dog, Bethany!

Gabriel Obadiah Barclay- we’re glad you joined our family!

Surprising Treasure:   The godly care for their animals, but the wicked are always cruel.
 Proverbs 12:10

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