"Dixie Mae"

For several months we have been fighting a health problem with Skippy our dear Spaniel mix. On returning from a kennel where he had stayed during our vacation, he brought with him "the itch" which the vet said was related to an allegic reation to flea bites. Since fleas are a very real and present danger in the South, we took it seriously and began treating him.

Off and on over the last year we used antibiotics and alternative medicine and creams, and recently had begun bathing him daily to give him some relief from the relentless scratching. His hair was beginning to wear thin and I was feeling very sad indeed about our once beautiful dog. Several months of 90's plus temperatures were not helping. And in the past week I had taken to daily laying hands on him and praying for relief and healing.

Two days ago Skip followed Bob's truck down the driveway, and a fast moving truck hit him, throwing him onto the grassy shoulder. He died instantly, doing his forbidden but favorite thing of all, biting the tire of a passing vehicle.

It was a tearful and quiet couple days at our house. However, I felt as though God had a fresh start for us and would comfort us as only He can do. Then I remembered that earlier this week Bob had mentioned a puppy, a little refugee from Katrina, that he'd heard about at work. The caregivers had asked if we wanted her, but I hadn't felt ready for two dogs.

Long story short, today we have a new, brown Boxer mix puppy, ten weeks old. Like Skipper, he appears to be a Mommy's dog, loves to lick my ears and curl on my lap. The boys and Bob are taking great delight in him and he them.

Once again God the Redeemer shows up and does His kind and gracious thing in our family. He is so good. He can always be depended upon. Happy is the man that trusts in Him.