We have a new addition to our family. She is a five-year-old Lakeland/Patterdale Terrier mix. She weighs about 15 pounds and is as laid back as any dog I’ve ever met. She is precious, and we love her to pieces already. Please welcome Tess.

We knew we wanted to get a dog again after settling into our new home and new lives. We had just started to study the process of adopting a dog and readying our house for a new addition. We hadn’t counted on coming across this particular dog at this specific time.

Tess was not adopted out through a shelter or breeder. Instead, she was living with a family who could no longer care for her due to changes in their work situation. She needed a home quickly, but her existing family loved her too much to adopt her out to anyone. They wanted to find the right fit.

As soon as I saw the ad, I fell in love. Not only was this little girl everything we were looking for in a dog, but we also didn’t have to go through the hassle of adopting through the shelter (which can be quite an ordeal here). Then, there was the name. Tess was the name of our first dog, and I couldn’t think of anything more appropriate. We adopted our first Tess shortly after we were married and began our new life together. How fitting that we should adopt our second Tess as we’re starting another new journey together.

As for the timing, ironically enough, the name Tess means “harvest” or “late summer.” It’s harvest season here in Wales. We held a harvest service at church last Wednesday and have two scheduled for this coming Wednesday. I can’t think of a better time to bring a “harvest” into our home than during harvest season.

I don’t know why I’m always amazed at how God works. Before we could see what He was doing, God was working to put us together with this precious pup. She needed a loving home. We needed a faithful companion. And God, in His great wisdom and kindness, met both needs. We know we all have a period of adjustment to go through, but we’re so excited to see what kind of adventures are in store for us. If experience is any indication, I’ll have plenty of delicious dog anecdotes to share with you.

I know today’s post is a little different than usual, but I just wanted to take a few moments to brag on God. He really is good, and He just keeps giving!