Our sweet chocolate lab, Maya, disappeared on Thursday. Maya is two years old and has grown into such a loving friend and companion. I consider running with my dogs one of my life's greatest joys. Who can complain about running when your dog is overjoyed to go. Maya is like a kangaroo the minute she understands that we are going running. She jumps on her back legs up and down and doesn't stop until I actually start running. It's hilarious! If only I felt that elated at exercising each morning. It's hard to explain the exhilaration of running in the mountains in the crisp air with your dog beside you. I've often thought "It just doesn't get better than this!".
I woke up on Friday and looked for Maya to take her on a hike with me and my friend Kari. I was so disappointed to not find her around. I wasn't worried, however, because she often finds neighbors to go on walks with. When she didn't show all Friday and then Saturday, our family was very worried and sad. We put up posters, called dispatch and informed neighbors, but things were not looking good. On Sunday after many prayers, I went with my son Tyler to collect fast offerings and when we returned home, there was Maya! I can't tell you how excited all of us were. We have no idea if someone brought her home or she returned on her own, but we are so grateful. I'm grateful for the tender mercies of a Heavenly Father who hears even the smallest of prayers.
