This Moment & Nuggets

((this moment))

A Friday ritual. A single moment - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor, and remember.

~SouleMama~

Nuggets :: November 28

Nugget :: Work was a treat this week, being that I only went in for three days. The kids were rambunctious, but the end of the week was never more than a couple of days away. We had some hectic times, with all of the Thanksgiving projects to be had. On Wednesday, we made Stone Soup and shared all of the reasons to be thankful. I'm amazed at how brilliant five- and six-year-olds are.

Nugget :: Family time. We spent the holiday with my dad's side of the family. A small gathering, but an intimate one. Football played in the background, my niece ran a beauty salon and gave everyone haircuts. Kid enjoyed the attention from the big dogs and the big boys (my cousins). He was quick to show off his dancing moves and his love for football. He recently learned to yell "touch down!"

Nugget :: Kid has been difficult. I know it's his age, and it's developmentally appropriate. I've worked with early childhood for 9 years now. I keep trying to tell myself all of the things I told toddler parents when we held conferences. It's hard. It's hard when Kid is a gem with everyone. Everyone but his mother. He slaps my hand at the store because he's mad. He kicks at my boots when we have to go inside. He wants me to give in, break down, let him get what he wants. I can't back down. No, I won't back down. He's learning. Every time out I give him. Every time I say "no." He's learning. He's testing his boundaries. He's worse for me because I'm there. I'm his rock. His mama. But that doesn't mean that I didn't break down in tears last night after he was in bed. It doesn't mean it's easy. And it sure as hell isn't fun when he's testing those limits. But then, he finally figures out how to say the K sound at the end of "milk" and learns to climb down from his learning tower, and finally throws the ball for Finn instead of at him. And then it's all worth it. A hundred times over.

Family Traditions

One of my favorite things about family are the traditions. Each person in a new relationship brings his or her own family traditions to the table. When a new family is created, these traditions meld together, but remain unique and constant at the same time.

My husband and I created a new family unit on our wedding day in 2011. We added to our family when we brought Finn home. Again, we added to our family when we created the most precious little life.

The hubs and I are responsible for this little man, and for instilling in him a love for family. Hubby and I both adore our families, and are excited to create an amazing little family of our own. I have many fond memories of the special traditions created by my parents for my siblings and I.

Swimming at Grammy and Boppa's.s

Skating at the park.

One "mental health day" per school year to have a one-on-one activity with the parents (I usually chose to go skiing).

Saturday morning and/or Sunday morning cartoons all cozied up together, eating donuts while Mom and Dad read the paper.

Thanksgiving in Colorado.

The list could go on and on and on.

Now, the hubs and I are creating those traditions for Kid. One of those family traditions, that we started this year, will be to go cross country skiing the day after Christmas Day. This year, it was a whole-family affair (dog included).

our first nature boy

the next nature boy

skijoring (Finn is pulling me!)

I've linked up here:

Four Months

Kid is already 4 months old! I can hardly believe it. The time has sailed by...

I purposely wrote this post today, as I wanted to wait for current baby stats. We had our four month well baby visit yesterday, so I have "official" stats. Of course, both Kid and I cried at the appointment (those shots..they're awful!).

Kid Stats:

Weight: 14 pounds, 15.5 ounces. You're just about 15 pounds, my man! That puts you in the 50th percentile, for a full-term baby at your age. I wonder what it would be for your adjusted age..

Length:  26.25 inches, you tall little man! You're over 2 feet tall, which puts you in the 60th percentile. It appears as though you're a tall, skinny boy.

Head: You, my friend, have a small head. 16.25 inches in circumference, and only the 24th percentile.

Clothing You're still wearing 3 month clothing, although the sleepers are too short for you. 0 to 3 month onesies have been packed away, and the 3 to 6 month ones are out in full force. My favorite outfit for you is a white onesie with a blue shark on it, and green striped pants to match. The pants even have a shark on the butt. They're perfect for Shark Week!

Diapers: Size 2. I'm currently prepping all of our cloth diapers to make the switch. You'll be in cloth most of the week, except when you go to daycare (2 days a week). I'm excited to finally get going on the cloth.

Favorite Food: it's still breast milk. Your doc said we could start cereal in a month in a half, but I'm not sure that's where I want to start... we may start with a veggie (like an avocado!) first.

Favorite Toy: hmm. Your puppy? Finn came home from camp, and you have completely enjoyed cuddles with him. You've also taken a liking to a little blue elephant that sings a song when you pull his trunk.

New Developments: You're working on rolling from your back to your tummy - you seem to get stuck on your side. Although, you don't mind being on your side. You've decided that you don't like to be on your tummy lately, and if you've forgotten how to roll over to your back, you get very mad! You're still drooling a lot (going to start watching for teeth!), blowing spit bubbles and chewing your hands.

Life has been so delightful with you, sweet boy!

((this moment))

((this moment))

A Friday ritual. A single photo - no words - capturing a moment from the week. A simple, special, extraordinary moment. A moment I want to pause, savor and remember.

~SouleMama~

Big Time Problem

My husband and I have a problem.

And I don't know how to deal with it.

It needs to be fixed, as lives could be at stake. 

Do I have you all perplexed?

Don't worry, it's not that bad. Here's the problem:

I apologize for the horrible photo. It was two in the morning, after returning home from a trip. The camera was still packed, so I used my phone.

This little bugger is actually quite big. I'd say at least 15 pounds. And he's been on the deck every night for the last week eating our bird seed. He needs to go away. 

The thing is...I have a question. How do you get rid of a raccoon? This beast of an animal could easily injure the pup. A vet friend of mine mentioned a raccoon causing some damage to a black lab. Black labs are big. Finn is not. Since he is currently at "summer camp," we have until August 3rd (when we pick him up) to get rid of the raccoon. But how!?

I love where we live, but it is thinks like the raccoon that really get to me. Raccoons, tornadoes, and wood/deer ticks.

2013! Already!?

I cannot believe that 2013 is already here! I've decided to do a recap of the year so that I may see it in 10 years and remember...

In January, I realized that I had to get my butt in gear to student teach in the fall. I was moving through my licensure and master's program at quite the leisurely pace. While the program claims to take just 18 months (not true), I was finishing up year four. Most of my classmates were finishing year three...quite a bit more time than 18 months!

In February, my husband and I celebrated our first Valentine's Day as a married pair.  Truth be told, we don't really celebrate Valentine's Day. Instead, we started some plans for our first "real" vegetable garden. And we had great plans...that produced about a million delicious tomatoes. We also made a major change to our home by tearing down an entire wall. And what a change it has been! Our upstairs is so much more inviting and wonderful.

In March, I turned 28. We also locked ourselves out of our house one morning, calling for a new front door. The new front door is delightful, even if it makes our entryway a little darker than it was before. My husband did a fabulous job replacing the door (and it wouldn't be the last time).

In April, we found ourselves parents to Fletch and Floyd, two bearded dragons. While I frantically wanted to rid our house of them, my husband took a liking and we kept them both for quite some time. Floyd stuck around for a few months, until he got aggressive and chomped on the foot of Fletcher. He was donated to a local reptilian society. They work to find homes for surrendered pets. Fletch was around for even longer; his "stump" healing beautifully. Eventually, we realized that a reptile during pregnancy was not the best idea. Although I was not yet pregnant, I knew I wanted to be soon. Fletch was given to a former student of mine, and I still get updates about him.

In May, we became parents to Finn. Our beloved little Brittany is such a wonderful guy. He loves to hunt in our backyard...birds, squirrels, mice. You name it, he will find it! We have started to bring baby stuff into the house so that Finn can get used to having a human brother.

In June we hung out around the house and found ourselves in a wonderful summer routine. With both my husband and I workin as teachers, June is a favorite month around our house!

In July, we traveled. And my beautiful niece turned two. What a joy that little girl has been. So lively, so creative, so amazing. When she was born, I found myself shocked at how much I could love that little thing. I cannot even imagine what it will feel like to love my own.

In August, I ran my first 5K. It's one of those things that was horrible while running, but such a wonderful feeling after the finish line. I cannot wait to train for and run another one. My husband and I are going to choose one in September or October of next year to run. I am quite excited.

In September, we heard the best news we could have heard. Afte taking three pregnancy tests, I finally believed what the little lines were telling me. My husband and had created a life that would be joining us in May. Now that is an amazing feeling.

In October, we saw our little peanut for the first time. There wasn't much to see...just a sac. But in reality, a life. We also went to the annual Halloween party with my husband's relatives. It was my first year without making our costumes. We didn't even dress up! I had great plans, but the exhaustion of early pregnancy got the best of me.

In November, we announced to family and friends that we were expecting a baby in May. My sister announced the same thing a week later. That's right. Two babies. Due about a week apart.

December was a whirlwind. A month that always seems to fly by so quickly. In our second Christmas season as a married couple, we found a routine that we think may work for us as far as Christmas gatherings go (there are quite a few when both families live within 20 minutes!). We also announced that our little babe is indeed a boy. And much like November, my sister announced the same thing a mere week later. Two baby boys.

In all, the year was fabulous. There was plenty newness and plenty change. Of course, this is only the beginning!

Summer (and my 50th post!)

Hello friends!

I finally feel as though summer has started. My husband and I returned home last night from a 5 day camping trip. Oh, it was heavenly. It was our first excursion of the year and it was beautiful. We made the five hour trip to a campground just north of Bayfield, Wisconsin, right on Lake Superior. The Apostle Islands were in sight.

This trip marks another first for our pup, Finnegan (whose "grandpa" likes to call him "Finnian"). He did remarkable well, and learned quite a few new tricks. Like opening the pocket doors of my in-laws' motorhome (we can't use their bathroom as containment anymore!) and using his nose to open the door of a pop-up camper (yup, pushes right on the black handle of the door!). He learned that his K-9 uncle, Kirby (a black lab mix) has no patience for puppies-Finn's nose may have been "nibbled" on more than one occasion.

During this trip, I earned the "Crappy Wife of the Year Award" for the second year in a row. Upon leaving home for our trip, I was certain that something had been forgotten. I just couldn't put my finger on it. Like in Home Alone, when the mom knows that something is missing. Like her, it took me awhile to figure out exactly what it was. An hour and a half into the drive, I realized it. Mr. Husband's birthday present. The sad part? The same thing happened when we were on our honeymoon the year before. Whoops! Next year can only be better, right?

I did give the gift to him upon our return home (I also made a cake for him, but messed up the homemade frosting).

Needless to say, we had a wonderful vacation. We spent long days navigating the waters of Lake Superior, stopping on the many islands for lunch on the sandy beaches. Scuba diving (Husband) or snorkeling (me) near shipwrecks, watching fireworks in Bayfield, and being able to see the show over on Madeline Island.

Yes, after a wonderful vacation, it finally feels as though summer has begun.

One tired pup on the way home

Date Night

I was given a $40 gift card to Houlihan's by a few coworkers a few months ago, so that my husband and I could enjoy a night out (thanks coworkers!).

I got home last night from my summer job and realized that the hubs did not take the chicken out of the freezer that morning. This was totally fine by me, I didn't want to cook anyway.

To Houlihan's we went. We got a Pepsi and strawberry lemonade (delish!). The towels they served us at the end of the meal were warmer than our food. And the food itself was mediocre at best. But I'm not writing this post because I am upset about the less-than-perfect service we had at the restaurant. Or the cold and bland fajitas.

I'm writing this post because of this post over at "The Good." It helped me to realize how lovely our date night was.

We talked the night away. We talked about Finn, about my summer job, his summer job. We talked about the dreams for our house, about having kids. We looked into each other's eyes (corny, I know). We enjoyed each other's company.

And when we got home? We took Finn for a nice long walk around the park. It was a wonderful end to a beautiful evening. Thanks to Sara from The Good for helping me to realize it!

Not Everyone Likes a Milkbone

I can't tell you why, but Finn does not like Milkbones. At all. In fact, we tried to use Milkbones as a way to get him into his kennel at night, and every morning we have seen them hidden away in his crate. Wouldn't he eat one or two if he liked them? He doesn't like treats!? What? That's ludicrous. Being that he is a puppy, treats are kind of a "big" part of training. Well, not super big, but big enough.

Since he is as cute as he is, I decided to make some treats for him... and it was very easy. I only needed a few ingredients (5!) and a super cute cookie cutter to make these treats. I can't tell you where the recipe was found, I found it in an old recipe box that was given to me (which was pretty neat, by the by).

Here is everything you need:

I forgot to take a picture of the milk!

2 cups of whole wheat flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup peanut butter
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon honey

First, mix the flour and baking powder. In a separate bowl, mix the milk, peanut butter and honey until it is well combined. Once that is well mixed, add the dry ingredients. Mix this, too, until it forms a nice dough. Roll it out on a floured surface to the thickness of about a quarter inch. Use a cookie cutter to make fun shapes for the biscuits (I used an old aluminum pan to make a bone shaped cookie cutter).

Needless to say, Finn loves these treats! I even gave some to my K-9 sister (Mad) and my puppy nephews (Duke and Louie). They liked them, too!

Life with a Dog

Oh my, how life has changed with our "addition." It's true, it is just a four-legged addition, and not a human one, but it sure is a lot of work! I am so blessed to have a break at work that is long enough to get home to let the boy relieve himself. I am so blessed to have a husband that is nice enough to let me use his ear muff type head phones ear plugs in order to fall asleep at night. Finn is one loud dog, holy cow! The first night with him home, we went to bed at 10pm. We were woken up at 12:15am. Again at 3:30am. And yet again 4:30. Then I was up for the morning. Night #2 with Mr. Finnegan? Repeat of the first night. Horrible. Needless to say, it has gotten better as Finn has spent more and more time with us, in our house, in his kennel. We get woken up around 5:15 each morning, which is fine during the week, but a pain in the butt on the weekend! Can I be like a mom with an infant? We weighed the boy. He is up to 9.5 pounds at 8 weeks. That's up an entire pound since we brought him to the vet. He's still a tiny boy, though! Okay, one more thought about the pup, then I'll be done. We brought him to the lake today, just to check it out. We had no intention of putting him in the water. We want him to love swimming, so we didn't want to scare him by forcing him into the water. My parents-in-law's dog came down with us and loved jumping off the dock to fetch a tennis ball. Finn was very excited about running around the shore and picking up sticks. The boy did fall in the water. Twice. He hid for a few minutes after the first fall, but the second didn't phase him a bit.