We drove to Sulphur Springs, TX this morning. The east Texas snow had receded leaving a landscape of mud and debris; however, the drab atmosphere melted away when we reached our destination. It was puppy picking day!
We spent about an hour with the puppies. The girls were all smiles and giggles. Puppies clambered over each other to get to the girls, kissing their faces and nibbling their fingers. The girls were tickled. Claire was a little overwhelmed, shocked into silence. She was very aware of all the new stimuli and didn’t know how to react. So she didn’t. She was wide eyed the entire visit.
We narrowed the choices down to three and then two, before making our selection. There were a few factors that pushed us to one over the other, however, the overriding factor was the affection the puppy showed toward Claire. The attached picture of Claire includes the puppy we chose. The breeders call him Hummer. We’re still debating on a name.
It was an exciting and fun day.
Our Claire Journal 
What a great day! What darling puppies! I love how relaxed Heidi and Autumn look with them. Tyler looks pretty relaxed himself. Are you sure this puppy isn’t for you? I love how engrossed Claire looks trying to figure out this new sensation. How soon can you take YOUR puppy home? Can’t wait to find out the name you choose! Dodie
Sooo excited for the Martin Family!!! Love the pics and cannot wait to meet the new puppy.
You don’t know me but I’ve been following your story for a while. I’m a friend of Maria Pokluda (who I think is a friend of y’alls??). Anyway, the puppies are precious, and I had to ask what kind they are. We adopted an Australian Shepard mix adult dog last year and I’m just wondering if this is what she looked like as a puppy. 🙂
Tyler and Tiffany you guys are the best parents ever. I lift up prayers for you and admire you with all my heart.
Awww! I bet your new little guy will be the girls’ new best buddy and protector! Congratulations!
Precious! Love the photos. This will be an adventure. 🙂
I still pray for you every day. You are engraved on my heart, so get used to it.
Love to all,
Jeanne
Awesome awesome awesome!!!!
Thanks for letting us share in the joy and fun of your day!
I just know this puppy is going to be a huge blessing to your entire family! There is nothing in the world like “fur love!” Wishing you many years of happiness with your newest family member.
Kelly Jarrell
so very precious! He will provide so much
for your girls. I am delighted for them.
My Grace often says that her dog is her
very best friend.
Blessings on you all today!
How fun! Puppies can be fun for the family. Hope to read a posting on picking out the puppy’s name.
How exciting!!! This puppy will be everyone’s best friend (including Mom & Dad). Thanks for the pics.
Wonderful photos from a very special day! Your entire family, including the adorable pup, is precious. God bless you all.
Yay puppies [ and GIGANTIC dogs! ]
I vore for ‘Buddy’.
Care to the caregivers;
hugs and love to all.
Awww! Congrats! I think you made the right choice. Thinking of you in icy CT!
Congrats for your new friend! I can imagine how the girls are happy 🙂
Hello! You probably don’t know me, although I might have worked in Zone Jr. with Heidi at IBC last spring. You’ve probably heard of my brother Luke’s situation (www.caringbridge.org/visit/lukesteinmann). I just wanted to let you know that although my family hasn’t commented in quite a long time (probably a couple months), almost everyday I think and pray for Claire. Although our family’s situations aren’t that much alike, I feel like I can kind of understand what Heidi and Autumn must have gone/are going through. Please tell them that people are definitely still praying for them!! Congrats on getting a puppy!!
God bless you!
Congratulations!!
What a sweet puppy. Our downstairs neighbors have a Bernese mountain dog, and he plays so well with our lab. They are gorgeous dogs and so affectionate. My one bit of advice is to invest in a Furminator if you haven’t already. Once his adult coat comes in, you won’t be sorry you made that purchase. 🙂
“They” say that dogs have some of the wonderful characteristics of GOD. Namely; always waiting for your return,very forgiving,always happy to see you etc, etc. They are such a terrific experience for children. God bless all of you.
What a sweet addition to your family! Claire has been and will continue to be in our daily prayers.
God bless,
Julie Nickell