Some blessings speak with words. Some encourage with Scripture. And some… communicate pure love with a wagging tail, a gentle nudge, or the soft thump of paws curled up beside you.
Today, I’m giving thanks for my dogs — the furry companions God has placed in my life to bring comfort, laughter, companionship, and joy in their own sweet way.
I’ve been a dog lover all my life, but this season is especially full. I currently share my home with six pups: Benny, Annie, Gabriel, Ginger, Dolly, and Pinky. All are rescues except Annie — my faithful little girl who has graciously welcomed every new fur-friend I’ve brought through the door. Somehow, she always understands. Always makes room. Always loves first.
I Love Them. They Love Me.
It’s a win-win!
These dogs keep me company as I write, as I blog, as I bake. They curl up beside me when I’m tired, nudge me when it’s time to stand up and stretch, and celebrate life with a joy I wish we humans would embrace more often. They remind me daily of God’s simple gifts — companionship, loyalty, comfort, unconditional love.
Being on the board of Mustard Seed Farm Animal Sanctuary in Magnolia, Texas, has shown me even more of God’s heart for rescue. Our team works tirelessly to help abandoned, neglected, and overlooked dogs find hope, healing, and their forever homes. When we place a dog with a loving family, it feels like witnessing a miracle — restoration, right before our eyes.
Which brings me to a book series that feels especially perfect for today: Gone to the Dogs, co-authored with my dear friend Kathleen Y’Barbo. Book one, Off the Chain, is set in Brenham, Texas, and it’s full of dog-loving characters, rescue missions, humor, heart, and faith. If you enjoy stories where dogs make everything better, this one will feel like a treat.
And speaking of treats — if we’re going to celebrate pups, we should include something yummy they can enjoy too! Here are a couple of homemade dog treat recipes my own crew loves:
Before we close, here’s a gentle reflection for this week:
Gratitude to Stir Up This Week:
Thank God for the loyal companions — pets or people — who stay close, offer comfort, and remind us we are not alone. Their presence is a gift.
