Kip and I had not planned to bring home a new puppy so soon after the loss of Caribou, but fate seemed to intervene and here we are with a new member of the family. No dog can ever replace Caribou, but God gives us room in our hearts to love again.
Raven was born one week before Caribou died and our vet informed us about the litter, letting us know that Raven’s parents were beautiful, healthy German Shepherds with great temperaments. We had not planned on visiting the pups until they were five weeks old, but on February 14th, the breeder contacted us and told us that if we were interested in a female pup we should come out the next day since only two were still available. February 15th would have been Caribou’s 11th birthday.
It felt like God was giving us a nudge.
We drove out that day and within 30 seconds of seeing her, I felt a tug on my heart-stings for this little runt of a pup with the black and silver markings. Here are photos we took on that fateful day (click to enlarge):
Raven at 3.5 weeks old – snuggling with me…
Raven at 3.5 weeks old – pink belly and so sleepy!
Pig pile – Raven’s siblings
Here are photos we took 2 weeks later:
Raven in Kip’s arms at 5 weeks old
Me and Raven (at 5 weeks old)
Raven’s mom (Kona) with one of Raven’s siblings
Here are Raven’s parents…Kona is mom (light colored) and Bandit is dad (dark colored):
I must admit to some bittersweet feelings today as I drove out to pick up Raven…Caribou was in my thoughts and I thought how much she would have loved this new little pup (Caribou loved puppies and was very gentle with them). But as I picked up Raven and held her, I felt my heart open with love for this tiny girl. I’m looking forward to watching her grow and become the special individual I know she will be. I’ll be posting more Raven photos and updates in the coming weeks! Here are some more photos taken today when we got home:
Outside exploring the yard
Moving all the time – busy, busy…
Me and Raven
And just in case you were wondering how I had time to post this…here is what Raven is doing RIGHT NOW:
Let’s hope she does a little more of this tonight!
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Wendy>>> what a cutie. Her paws are so huge. Much happiness with the new addition.
This is so awesome – thanks for sharing! I love the name and Raven is adorable.
How beautiful she is, Wendy! She is lucky to be welcomed in such a loving home. She already looks like she might be a handful–but I’m sure Argus and the cats will help keep her boundaries while she explores her new home. I’m so happy for you!
Wendy — What a cutie. I love those ears & those paws! What a great pic of the two of you. Thanks so much for sharing.
Now I want one too! She is the cutest little thing–congrats!
Looking forward to more pictures and stories of Raven!
How wonderful! She is such a beautiful dog! I love the first picture with her cute ears all scrunched up on her head!
Wow, thank you everyone!!! We have our hands full here
For all of you who commented that Caribou is smiling down…I agree. Raven is her own little personality, but she has done some things lately that are very Caribou-like. I like to think that Caribou’s spirit is guiding her!! I will be posting some more photos later (I am very sleep deprived right now and am so behind in everything!!). Argus has been a good boy – mostly patient with only one moment where he got a little upset with her (and who can blame him?).
All your comments are so wonderful – and gave me a warm spot in my heart. Thank you so much!
Wendy,
I am soooo happy for you. Raven is just adorable. So sweet. Enjoy!
Oh my goodness, she is so beautiful! Congratulations on the new member of your family.
Congratulations on your new baby, Wendy! Raven is so sweet. I’m so glad you were able to make room for her in your home and hearts even though you weren’t sure if you were ready. Just think of Caribou as that little pup’s guardian angel.
She’s beautiful! Congrats! Thanks for sharing the pics.
She’s so lovely – a real treasure ;0)
Congratulations Wendy! She looks so cute, and very loving! Enjoy the puppy breath “smile” oohh puppies, they are so great. Keep us posted on how Argus and the kitties are taking the newest member of the family…
She is a beauty
Carla
Congratulations on your recent adoption! Raven is beautiful and I love how you described your heart opening for her.
I look forward to more pics and stories about her!
Oh wow, isn’t he gorgeous! He looks like so much fun, but I’m sure you have your hands full!