Gibson is Three, and His Birthday Gift is his Little Brother: River

I have been an empty nester for a little over a year. I believe God knew that wouldn’t last long. One of my purposes in life has always been to care for and nurture family, friends, and of course, pups.

Once Andy and I realized Gibson would love a little brother, I started thinking about this little peanut’s name. In this season of life, I have missed and thought of my precious parents in a different way every day. Seeing my wonderful kids spread their wings has me dreaming of Paw-Paw and Mama Doris being a part of their new beginnings and adventures. They would be so excited and beaming with joy.

The reason I chose Gibson’s little brother’s name to be River is in honor of my strong and joyful Daddy. The river was Daddy’s favorite spot. He told me that when he was young, he and his younger brother, Dan, would fish, skip rocks, and even skinny-dip. The river continued to be Daddy’s favorite place throughout his life. He made friends easily. One of his U.S. Steel “cronies” (meaning a close friend) would let Daddy fish on his private pond. He was so proud when he bought a cobalt blue and silver bass boat. He would fish in his new boat on the river again.

The significance of River’s name is this: my hardworking Daddy found peace fishing in the still river. In Daddy’s golden years, the words of Isaiah 66:12 and the hymn It Is Well With My Soul fill my heart. Daddy knew he was going home to Heaven, to an abundant and overflowing river of peace.

The picture below is Gibson’s new pal, River.