The Best News

Romans 8:37-39
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

I can't even comprehend how much God loves me.

If you've ever had a pet who is part of your family, you know how much you love them. Our Rosie May is a family dog, not just for Tim and me, but also for our children and grandchildren to enjoy and learn from. When we drove her home from my niece's house, we circled around to let her meet our grandchildren. Of course she was a wee pup then. Now she's almost full grown as a seven-month-old and has integrated into our lives as if she's always been here.

In those few months she's lived with us, she's shown her loyalty, but she's also chewed on a book, shredded papers, and had accidents in the house (thankfully just a few.) Yes, I get frustrated, but no matter what, I love our beautiful, kind-hearted, caring pup. She's part of our family, and I know she loves us.

Everyone wants to be loved, and I have good news, great news really. In Romans, the writer shares the amazing promise of God's continuous love. Once I chose to follow Jesus and believe His truth, God has poured out his love on me. Yes, I make mistakes, I sin, and at times I've doubted, but His love draws me back in. Nothing will separate believers, from the love of their Father, God. Nothing. I stand amazed at the love the Father pours over His family.

He calls every person to Him. He wants everyone to acknowledge Him as God. God loves and wants everyone to love Him back.

Seek Him and discover the most incredible love you'll ever experience.

Children’s Picture Book Review: Candace’s Playful Puppy by Candace Cameron Bure, illustrated by Christine Battuz

Book Description:
Candace’s Playful Puppy is for every boy or girl who has ever wanted a dog and every parent who knows the responsibility that goes along with caring for a new pet. Written by New York Times bestselling author and actress Candace Cameron Bure, laugh along with this story of a little girl who visits a pet shelter to adopt a cuddly new dog and comes home with a rambunctious pup instead.

Candace’s Playful Puppy is a picture book for ages 4 to 8 that teaches kids:

How to be faithful to your commitments

To never give up when you face a tough situation

That patience is a skill that takes a lot of practice and hard work

When Candace’s new pup, Freckles, doesn’t pay attention to her instructions, Candace’s patience is tested and her excitement over the new pet quickly fades. Freckles escapes … but ends up making a muddy return. Candace realizes that being a great dog mommy isn’t as easy as she thought.

My Thoughts:
Candace Cameron Bure has written a thoughtful story of a little girl who needs to understand the commitment needed to take care of a puppy. Candace expects an easy-going cuddle puppy, instead she takes home a pup who loves to run and get into things. This sweet story is a great one to read to a child who’s preparing to adopt a pet. It will help them understand the responsibility of owning a puppy, and the frustration that sometimes comes from having a pet who doesn’t listen. Christine Battuz’s delightful illustrations add fun and entertainment to the story. And make sure to watch for Harry the hamster on each spread. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

 

National Puppy Day

I heard today is National Puppy Day. I'm not sure who made up the day, but I bet they love their dogs as much as we love ours.

When we got Tater as a puppy, he was a sweet furry bundle of joy. He laid in my lap when I was sick and followed us faithfully from room to room. He's been a blessing. He's about eight years old now, seventy-five pounds and still a joy.

Olive came to us as an adult. She's a rescue dog found with eight puppies. Poor thing had physical problems from her previous life. She's been a bit of challenge, yet a soothing little dog.

Do you have dogs who are part of your family?