I’m here to share puppies with you — but knowing the real me behind our “Heartmender” philosophy may offer a deeper understanding of why I do this work with such thought and belief.
At first glance, I might seem somewhat unapproachable. Focused. Determined. Project-driven. It shows in my posture, my expression, and how seriously I take the details. But just under the surface, I’m soft-hearted to a fault. When someone tells me their dog has passed — even a dog I’ve never met — I cry with them. I feel their loss. I totally embrace talking with the elderly. Their wisdom. Their stories. Their presence with seemingly nowhere else to be. When someone gives me a glance and a smile, I become 100% approachable. I’m suddenly removed from deep thought into the moment.
I’ve always been drawn to animals — especially horses, sheep, and, of course, dogs. Their presence is pure, honest, and steady. No masks. No manipulation. Just who they are. And that resonates with me because I’m someone who can sense the real behind the performance. So my comfort is found on our little farm with my animals.
My admiration is for all that is pretty to my heart. I know ‘shabby chic’ may be cliché, but it fits me well. I’m drawn to whitewashed and old barn wood, delicate lace, anything fluffy and comfortable. I love farmhouses, wraparound porches for both sunsets and sunrises, the quiet beauty of nature, the company of all animals, and the grace of a weeping willow tree. Flowers, honeybees, bumblebees, bluejean jackets, oversized hoodies, and embroidery make me smile. I adore farms, white picket fences, birdhouses tucked into ivy — and have I mentioned porch swings? I find everything is pretty in pink 🌸
Friends? I keep only a small handful close, but I truly enjoy everyone — especially those who hold animals dear to their heart. With the right person, I can curl up in harmony and talk for hours about life. I value relationships that are simple, without drama, where we can both just be ourselves… exactly as we arrived.
I overthink everything — before, during, and after. I question whether I said the right thing, did the right thing, whether it landed the way I meant it to. A friend once told me she never thinks twice about what I say because she knows my heart. That was healing for me… as I was overthinking it.
Because I care so deeply, I’ve sometimes been misunderstood as “controlling.” But in my world, caring means doing it right — the right way for the animals, the people, and the peace for the whole. If a gate’s opened, it should be closed. If a broom’s used, it should be put back. If someone pokes my animal… expect me to poke back, even a little harder. Some call it control — I call it stewardship.
And when it comes to raising puppies, I overthink that too — because I want to get it right. I ask questions, re-ask them, and push for knowledge. My vet is gracious with me, reminding me often that nothing about raising puppies is perfect. Still, I try. I carry the responsibility with both intensity and tenderness, because these little lives matter.
So yes, I overdo. I overthink. I over-care. It’s who I’ve always been — and always will be. Like me, or not…I’ll come across it honestly, because authenticity matters to me.
I raise ‘Homegrown Heartmenders’ because I believe puppies are more than pets. They are comforters. Companions. Gentle reminders of love, trust, and healing in fur-covered form. I suppose that belief was planted in me long ago. Since I was a little girl, I’ve shared life with many breeds of animals — but dogs were always the lifeline that never faded. I come by it honestly; my dad had a huge heart for animals. He never left a dog in need, especially those abandoned along our country road. He made sure they knew our home was a safe, happy place where they could always lay their head. I watched my dad mend their hearts, even as those dogs mended his… and ours. That same spirit now lives on in my porch swing moments — where love, safety, and belonging are promised, and where a puppy’s heart is prepared to turn your house into a home. And I believe the world needs more of that kind of love.
I know the cards will never fall with the perfection I imagine. I dream, I fall short, and things don’t always go as planned. But I see and feel the needs placed in front of me. One glance, one smile, one wagging tail — and I’m reminded why I do this. And with God’s help, I will always show up and give my very best.
In closing… I absolutely adore a porch swing visit — even if we’re just sharing stories and sipping sweet tea from our own little corners of the world. I’m always up for a good chit-chat, so don’t be a stranger. Let’s live the dream daily, one pawprint at a time. 🤎
Warmly, Gina
GOD'S LITTLE AUSSIES 