Who knew God would use a dog to encourage me so much!
Growing up, I never really was a pet guy. Possibly because I believed no dog could match up to the Ranch’s dog Bo back in the ’80s! And once we had four little girls in the house, we sure didn’t have time for any additional pets!
But on October 2013, everything changed. God was leading our Tampa friends, the Boyettes, to the overseas mission field. Their 5-year-old, incredibly well-trained Chocolate Lab, named Gunner, needed a new home. I just happened to be scheduled to be driving to Tampa for summer staff recruiting, and honestly, I needed a buddy. Long story longer, Gunner nervously jumped in the back of my Corolla and kept me awake for the 22-hour drive north!
The nerves and drool he had while driving ended when we turned onto Montrose Turnpike. And ever since he stepped onto the camp property, he never looked back and became every camper’s best friend!
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Gunner had a way of subsiding any fears a camper may have had. Over the past eight years, I watched God use Gunner to encourage campers, parents, staff, and myself. Whenever one felt lonely or just needed someone by their side, he was there. Every camper called Gunner their Best Friend. And of course, he gave us a great reason to throw a Birthday Party every summer!
Gunner will always be a reminder to me of God’s faithfulness and provision. 2013-2015 were challenging years for me, and I believe God knew I needed Gunner jumping up at me when I would pull my socks out of my back pocket and head to the office, or sit at my feet on the front porch and under my desk! He was always there to lead the trail ride, greet new campers, and he was there when we began praying for God to provide the resources for the New Property. He was the very best!
Gunner, you will be missed by all. Gunner, on behalf of all of the MAPLERIDGE family, we say THANK YOU!
Special Note: I would be remiss if I didn’t stop and say a huge THANK YOU to the Dodge family! Darren, Colleen, and girls: thank you for bringing Gunner into your home in 2017 and allowing him to continue the country lifestyle in the off-seasons. Y’all are the best!
-CHIEF-