JJ – All the Wonders

puppy in pink towel — First portrait of JJ, the new Scottie puppy

One week ago today, we picked you up from your birthplace.
We met the humans who brought you into this world.
We met your mom (Shannon), your dad (MacGregor), and your siblings.

Then you took your first ride in the car,
Had had your first portrait made,
Spent your first night away from your family.

It has been a week of firsts …
First going to sleep alone in a crate.
First breakfast.
First thunderstorm.
First trying to pee in the rain.
First visit to The Vet.
First time to meet Arya.

We heard your first bark (at Arya),
Watched your first frenzied play that collapsed into a nap,
Laughed at your first romp with each new toy.

You, with your yips and growls,
Your ferocious energy and warm cuddliness,
Your puppy eyes and ears and feet and nose …
You have frolicked your way solidly into our hearts.
And we are grateful for you.

Bless to me this puppy.
His waking and sleeping,
His eating and playing,
His eyes and ears,
His sharp little teeth.
Bless to me the joy he brings —
Bless to me this puppy.

Puppy lying on red blanket — First ride in the car

Puppy sleeping on red blanket — First nap in the car

Two dogs looking at each other — First time to meet Arya

Puppy with bandana — First trip to the vet

Puppy looking over a step — First going up steps

Puppy lying on rocks — First roll in the dirt

Puppy eating breakfast — First breakfast

We drove east out of Nashville
On a pilgrimage to pick up JJ.
(“JJ,” “Junior,” “Jack, Jr.”)

As we traveled,
A rainbow hung in the sky above us.
Mile after mile after mile,
We watched it curve through the sky.

What a joyful sign!
From you, dear Jack?

And then, a double rainbow …
And we knew that your spirit was traveling with us.

You …
And all the company of furry, winged saints
Were singing a blessing for the tiny pup
Joining our family.

Bless this new life.
Bless this family.
Bless this home.

Bless the leashes and the bowls.
Bless the beds and bless the toys.
Bless the treats, especially … bless the treats.

Bless this pup,
His eyes and ears and feet and tail.
Bless his friends,
Dog and cat and bird and squirrel.
Bless each step that he will take.
Each car ride, to the park and to the vet.

Bless the love.
Bless the laughter.
Bless the tears.
Bless this pup.
Every day of his life.

Today we pick up JJ, a nine-week-old, black Scottish Terrier. He was born at the White Shadow Ranch near Asheville, NC. Pictures will be coming soon.

Tag: JJ

JJ’s Week of “Firsts”

Jack and the Rainbow Blessing