LIVE. LAUGH. LOVE.

I have developed a love of thunder lately. Now, I am not talking about the kind that rumbles across the sky. I still prefer my rains to be gentle without noise, lightening, or high winds. The Thunder I am taking about isn't a storm but rather a bundle of puppy energy.

Let me explain. A few weeks ago my daughter was looking through a local newspaper and saw pictures of dogs and cats up for adoption at an animal shelter. One dog in particular looked up from the paper and right into her heart. We soon found ourselves then at the shelter signing the papers to bring a new furry friend into our lives. My daughter named him, "Thunder" and he immediately brought "FUN" into our lives. He was a mixed breed and looked like an Australian Shepherd shrunk into a fifteen pound body. He also possessed the energy of a dozen Chihuahuas. We smiled every time we watched him zoom through the house chasing a tennis ball. We laughed as he wrestled and tried to herd our two beagles. And we melted into his love every time he leapt into our arms to be cuddled. Our little "Fun Fun" makes our home a happier one with his boundless zest, doggy smile, and frequent puppy kisses. Our newest kibble cruncher gives us his love freely and makes our hearts lighter with his presence. As fearless as he is in sharing his affection, though, "Thunder" is scared of one thing: thunder. The last lightening storm here sent him scurrying and trembling into my daughter's arms.

I have often wondered why I have opened my heart to so many different dogs over the years. I've found that the answer is love. Our furry friends love us. They love us unconditionally. They give us a love that is pure and free. They show us how we all should love each other. They are one of God's greatest gifts to us and we should cherish them always. That is why I thank God for giving us "Thunder" and will happily comfort him whatever storms may come.