Fresh starts

We are not known as pet people. Throughout more than 23 years of marriage our household was home to neither cat nor dog, fish nor fowl, nor beast of any kind.

But then came Logan. Just in time for Advent we became the proud proprietors of a coal-black miniature schnauzer with an impish streak, exuberant energy, frequent naps and boundless affection.

A number of our friends seem surprised when we announced the new addition to our family. "Why did you wait until your boys are all grown up and about to move out before you got a puppy?" they asked.

Well, I replied, puppies aren’t just for kids. Indeed, our own disappearing kids are a good part of the reason why a dog makes so much sense for us at this very time. Things are changing in our household. A delightful era is coming to an end. The boys are forging their own paths, and we must stick to our own.

But for the present we’re all at home, and the puppy is a shared joy (and responsibility). Throughout the Advent season it occurred to me that this new life in our home was bringing the spirit of the season-joy, hope and faithfulness.

That may be a big load for a little dog to carry, but he is a happy and constant reminder of innocent joy and of fresh new starts. He makes us laugh. He binds us together. He is our companion. And he’s definitely not a cat.