Decisions... (and a recipe!)

After much debate... and a few discussions... Stacy and I decided it would be best to put Courtney's surgery off.  The final "straw" is the fact that she is now fighting a head cold.  But other factors really weighed our decision... like the fact that their is a real job waiting for her to start, we put off driving lessons for her, I dont want her to fall behind in school, she is starting to branch out and volunteer for different things, and there is an open house/tour of the HGA Center in October.
Soooo... I am thinking the surgery can wait until spring.  I want to see Courtney make some progress in her life skills and not be pushed back by this surgery.  I think we can time it right to have it done at the end of the school year and have her healed up by the Fall semester at HGA!  :-)
I am sure we will get a bunch of shit for the decision... but I think it is in the best interest for Courtney.

Stacy and I also decided that our Fall Harvest Gathering is a GO!  We picked a date... and invites will be going out!  I have also already got a good handle on our menu of harvest deserts... which is the whole reason for our gathering!
The hot tub will be open also!
We are pretty excited!!

Ellie and pups are doing well!!  I can not believe how much they have grown in only a few days!!!  It amazing the hell out of me!!  We are starting to take Ellie out a little more now... giving her time away from her babies... but she doesnt really appreciate it when we handle and move them to change their towels.  It isnt that they really need changed, she keeps everyone clean... but it just makes me feel better to wash them up every other day.
Stacy was loving up on the pups last night... Once they got put back with Ellie she licked them all clean!!!  LOL!!  I cant wait to see what they end up looking like!!!

Stacy will be taking the pool down again this year.  He wants to move it.  He cant get the tractor around it, and that isnt flying with him.  So, "someone" has to get it in... now that it is below 40 degrees at night... to pull the inside drain plug!  LMBO!!!  Yeah, he can have fun with that task!!!
This year I will be MAKING SURE that once he has it down... that it will be rolled up and stored properly!!!  No starting this and never finishing it... like he did last year!!!

I got to work some in my garden yesterday.  Still producing peppers and tomatoes!!  Well, until I pulled the last 2 tomato plants yesterday!  I seriously DO NOT need any more tomatoes!!  I have been supplying the guys Stacy works with with tomatoes and peppers for a few weeks now!  LOL
I need to tame back the raspberry plants today... If I can find the time. 
Tuesday's are pretty busy for me.  Courtney has group, and will need picked up at 4:30.  I have just enough time to pick her up, run her home... then head out with Brittany for an evening of gymnastics!  I am hoping to finish up a crochet project I need to complete, while I am watching Britt practice.  Then I can hunt down my next yarn craft!  :-)

I want to take a minute to express just how THANKFUL I am.  I may have been blessed with "special needs" kids... but I have ALWAYS been on top of their needs and searching out the services required to help them.  I have NEVER waited, or left things get so over the top bad.
Since moving up Upper Dauphin Co... I have been constantly amazed at how lucky we are to be tucked away up here.  There is no major wait for services... we have our own "hub" right here, just for us... It is NOTHING like being in the Harrisburg area... or in other counties.
I thank God for giving me a good head on my shoulders... and awesome priorities!!  I will always do whatever it takes to make sure my kids succeed... even if that means added work on my part, or changing how I live my day to day life. 
I am so GRATEFUL for my amazing hubby... who makes it possible for me to be home, teaching my kids... There is NOTHING I would rather be doing with my time or my life.

OK... The recipe I will share today---

Crispy Herb-Baked Chicken Tenders

1.5lb chicken tenders
2 Tblspn Dried Italian Seasoning
1 Teaspn Garlic Salt
1/2 Cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
1/2 Cup instant mashed potato flakes (DRY)
1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper to taste.

1.  Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a 9 X 13 pan with cooking spray.
2.  In medium bowl, combine Italian seasoning, garlic salt, parmesan cheese, and potato flakes.  Brush chicken tenders with olive oil and roll in potato flake mixture. (Chicken should be heavily coated with mixture)
3.  Place chicken in a single layer in 9 X 13 pan.  Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is tender and golden, turning once during baking.

Of course, I made some variations due to our diet... and I dont EVER use "cooking spray".
This was a nice, quick meal... that everyone seemed to enjoy!

Our weekend...

I think we are all pretty much caught up on sleep... from Ellie's ordeal Friday night.  I have to admit, we were in bed before 8pm again last night... and it feels GREAT!!!
Ellie is settling into motherhood rather nicely now that she is free from all of the anesthesia.  She had me pretty worried during those first hours though!!  Now, her babies rarely get out a squeak before she is tending to them.  My only worry now... is Ellie getting all that she needs.  I spend quite a bit of time making sure she is eating, she wont walk away from her babies long enough to really eat very much... so I hold her dish next to her, so she doesnt have to leave them.  LOL
But, 2 days into this... all is good!

Yesterday Stacy, Britt and I went for a hike/off roading adventure!  Exactly what I needed!!  We had a boatload of fun!!!  I, of course, ended up hurting my back and can barely walk today... but I dont care.  I hate all that I have had to give up because of my back... sometimes I get to the point where I will just take the pain and suffering in order to have some fun.  And believe me... today is going to SUCK!

I am so glad that Stacy and I still enjoy our "adventures" together.  I am glad we can get in my truck... and head off road.  Stacy LOVES testing the limits of my truck... me, not so much... LOL
An eventful "off road adventure" is in the planning stages... I CAN NOT WAIT!!
I also think the Graff brothers should team up together, get some cars, and participate in the Figure 8 races at Gratz next year!!  Stacy was talking about how they have done that in the past together... yesterday while we were out and about.  I told him I would be all for it!  Who knows if  he will run with it or not.

The kids are entering an upcoming art show.  Which is why Brittany has been manning my camera lately.  She already has the picture she wants to enter in mind...but wants to keep her eyes open for another photo op.  She will also be entering a drawing, and a poem. 
Nathan will be entering a drawing or 2.
Courtney, of course, will be entering a drawing.
I LOVE that my  kids are artsy!!!!

Brittany is also joining the Art Club with the school.  I am not real sure what club Nathan will choose yet.

It is OBVIOUS that Nathan spent Saturday night with Debbie!!  OMG... he is miserable.  I can only imagine what he ate.  I can guarantee one thing... I am NOT putting up with the crap today!  Sitting in this chair is KILLER on my back... his ass better straighten up and quick! 
I hope he soon realizes that THIS is not something I do for ME... I do it all for HIM!  A little appreciation would be nice.
I really wish people would LISTEN to the instructions I give them regarding MY kids.  It pisses me off when ppl ignore me, like I wont be able to tell.  DUH!

Needless to say... I did NOT get to start my container gardening this weekend.  BUT, I havent given up on it.  I am hoping to get my stuff together today... and get some seeds started.
I have so much to get done in my garden yet... I am feeling a little behind all of a sudden.  I guess when I read the word "snow" on FB this morning it loaded me with anxiety!  LOL!!  UGH... I cant even think about snow yet.
Soooo I WONT!  LOL!!  I already have my laundry hung out today!  It is beautiful out!!  I need to start looking for a new laundry basket cart... that I put my laundry basket on... so I dont have to bend down.  Mine is literally falling apart.  Nathan had to hunt down the missing nuts and bolts for me this morning, and then put it back together... which turned into a big ordeal.  It may be easier to just take out a hamper with me... and set the basket on that.  ;-)

I think that is all I have for now.  I do have a new, yummy recipe to share too!  I hope to get it posted this evening!!

Eventful!!

Well... We have had an event night and day!!!

Here is the short and sweet version... since I have been up for about 36 hours now!

Thursday night we noticed Ellie's temperature dropped... which is a sign of her getting close to having her puppies!!
Friday morning, we got up, took Ellie's temp again (still low), but she ate like a horse... So I felt ok with leaving her for a few hours for us to take our hike.
Once we were home from our hike... we noticed Ellie starting to act a bit 'weird'. 
OF COURSE, she was basically fine UNTIL we headed to bed!!! 
Stacy and I stayed up watching movies... keeping an eye on Ellie.  Things got pretty serious around midnight.  By 3pm there were some signs that Ellie wasnt going to be able to have her pups on her own... So we called the ER Vet... and headed to Watsontown to have her seen.  The Vet quickly assessed Ellie, did an Xray and said they were sure she wouldnt be able to have her pups on her own... soooo, after a quick chit chat, Stacy and I knew we had to "OK" a C-section.

I wont even get into the cost for that... but it made me ill.

Anyway... We were sent home with a VERY groggy Ellie and 2 healthy pups... both girls!!
Ellie wanted no part of her pups until later this afternoon... which had me pretty worried for awhile!!!  But, now she is doing a GREAT job being a mom... and Stacy and I are hoping to get some sleep tonite!

Once I can keep thoughts straight in my mind... I will blog again.  Until then, enjoy some pics from our eventful night!
Stacy keeping an eye on Ellie early on in the evening-

After waiting in the waiting room for well over an hour (for a surgery that was to take less than 45 minutes)... even the resident cat was looking worried!!!

Hubby trying to occupy himself... as we continue to wait-

2 hours into our wait... he was sound asleep!!  --

We watched the sun come up... it was VERY pretty!!-

FINALLY heading home.  Poor Ellie was sooooo out of it, and wanted NO part of her puppies!

Ok... that is all for now... I have to make sure Ellie eats and drinks a bit AND make sure her pups have full bellies and potty... THEN, I am going to BED!!!!!!!!! 

GoodNight!

We have been crazy busy this week! 
Nathan is hard at work... trying all sorts of different writing!!  I am super proud of his eagerness to write... and his ability to adapt from one assignment to the next.  It is crazy, that in his almost 11 yrs of life... he has TONS of things in his own life to write about!!
Yesterday he had to write a "thank you" letter.  He chose to thank me and Stacy for letting him go to the Gratz Fair Wednesday night with his friends.  Yea, it's crazy... my kids have friends!!  I know we get the stereo type shit... that home schooled kids dont know how to socialize... BUT THEY DO!!  Their friends come from the different activities we do... not a school building!!  Which, if you ask me... is a better way to find like-minded friends!

We went to the Fair yesterday, as a family.  OMGoodness... we had sooo much fun!!!  Nathan, Brittany and Stacy all tried to climb the "hard" side of the rock wall... in an attempt to win $100.  I was impressed in how far they all made it... but none of them made it to the top.  :-(  The guy running it was GREAT!  He offered them all awesome advise and step by step guidance.
The kids decided to make their attempt in their bare feet... they wanted to use those monkey toes!  LOL
Nathan getting suited up for his climb-

They guy said their was an 8 yr old that made it... he showed us the pics on his phone!  He also made sure to tell us (joking, of course) that our $10 each will be going to his new pair of high end sunglasses!!  LOL!!
Nathan-

Stacy-

Brittany-

Some other good memories from the fair...  Bumper cars!!!  Nathan's FAVORITE!!!

FarisWheel-

Nathan jumping-

We had some an awesome evening!!  The BEST part.... THE DEMO DERBY!!!  I havent been to a demo in YEARS.  I havent been to anything fun like that in YEARS!!  That went bye bye with my "previous" life. 
I am trying to talk Stacy into letting me enter a car next year... he wont let me.  Damn broken back!!!!  I told him HE should enter a car... he says he doesnt know.  My hubby can be kinda "boring" sometimes!  If only I could get him to have some fun.
He really enjoyed cheering on the "little escorts"... LMBO.  He is damn funny!!!  He had the kids cheering on escorts too!

 I started getting serious about ripping out the garden... gotta get it ready for winter.  Nathan and I pulled out the corn stalks yesterday.  Boy, that was an adventure!  LOL!!  Those things really hang on.  We were just learning about the roots of corn this week too... and how they grow "weird" to hold up the tall, narrow stalks!  I LOVE when we get to experience things we are learning about!  I LOVE being a part of my kid's education!!!  :-) 
I even pulled out some of the beat looking bean plants.  This weekend I am going to get some of my container garden planted.  It will be exciting to have fresh veggies in the winter... if it all works out.

Today, since Stacy was off, we took the kids hiking.  We also took Gunner and Kanga with us.
We headed up to Swatara State Park.  It was a BEAUTIFUL 4 mile hike.  The trail was narrow in some spots... and it made it confusing for the dogs to stay at our left side... but they did pretty good!!
Gunner was NON reactive more then he was reactive... which is a HUGE improvement!!!  It seems that he had more of an issue when ppl had dogs.  He completely ignored at least 4 or 5 ppl on bikes that went by us.  IMPRESSIVE!!!  I am sooo happy that things are getting better with his aggression.
Kanga did really well too.  She just sometimes gives us the finger and doesnt do what she knows how to do, when we want her to do it!  THEN plays the "I'm scared" card!  FRUSTRATING!
Bonus... they BOTH wore hiking packs!!!  ;-)
Me and my Gunner man during our hike today-

Stacy and Kanga-

I guess that is all I have for now.  I feel like crap!  My Fibro is really kicking my ass lately... I am about sick of dealing with it!!!  But I REFUSE to let it get me down!!!! 

Rough road ahead

Yesterday was a rough day... and I am thinking that if I dont just throw in the towel... things are bound to get a bit rougher.

I am so excited to take our Shepherds to training... now, to be real honest, the thought makes me want to puke.
It was a real eye opener... that is for sure!!
I was never in denial of the problems we have with Gunner.  I knew that my way of training was NOT addressing the issues we were/are having.  Which is why I called on people more knowledgeable of the breed.
EVERYTHING they said and explained to me makes COMPLETE sense!!  (I sure as hell wouldnt want to paint an entire room for one piece of chocolate!!!)
The hard part...  re-training my brain to follow through with a new way of doing things!  Then I need to get myself to a point where I can re-train my dogs, and not screw it all up...without screwing up my dogs!!  NO PRESSURE!!  Yea, right.
I dont know if I can do it.

Realizing that I, indeed, have a dangerous dog... was painful.  I always the knew the potential was there.  I always made sure to control the situations we put Gunner in.  I never gave him the opportunity to do anything other than bark.
Well, last night (when I was least expecting it), Gunner reacted and bit one of the trainers.  He was laying down, calm.  I was calm.  Tim walked over and asked for Gunner's leash... and Gunner just went for him.  I was totally blind sided by the whole thing.  I left my guard down.
Now I can never say my dog has never bitten anyone.  PERFECT.

Thank goodness Tim didnt get seriously hurt.  Gunner didnt break skin.  BUT... it really drove the point home... I walk weapon.  LOVELY!

OK... so I spent last evening depressed.  (Yesterday ended up being a 2 Icee day!!!)  I told my husband I wanted to get rid of ALL of our dogs. 
This morning I am still a bit depressed.  I am  not finding new homes for our dogs though.... I am working on a solution to our problem!!  I will be running to TSC for some new "gear" (collars)... then if the weather cooperates, I will be working Gunner while Brittany is at gymnastics this evening.

Kanga is a different story.... same issue.  Another "dangerous dog".   I have to make it unacceptable for her to be afraid and act the way she does.

The even harder part out of all of this.... I must STOP 'humanizing' these dogs.  They are NOT my babies... they are my DOGS.  I can love them to hell and back... but at the end of the day, they are still animals.

Going back

 I did away with the first blog I wrote yesterday... it wasnt very "positive" or "uplifting".  After much thought... here is what I have come up with instead.

There are soooo many things I deeply miss about my "previous" life.  Dont get me wrong... I LOVE my husband, and wouldnt give up what I have for anything!! 
But still... my life has changed so much over the past 5 yrs.  I have gained A LOT of new POSITIVES.  I have a whole new perspective on life.  I am able to be someone I always wanted to be... stay at home mom, homeschooling mom, gardening guru... etc!  ;-)
There are somethings that have taken a back seat over time... and I am feeling the need to bring them back to my life. 
The teachings my life has been lacking lately... its time to dig them back up, remember and live them... every day.  More POSITIVE changes are coming!!!
Little by little... I will share the here.

The 3 Truths-

1. Nothing is lost in the universe
Matter turns into energy, energy turns into matter. A dead leaf turns into soil. A seed sprouts and becomes a new plant. Old solar systems disintegrate and turn into cosmic rays. We are born of our parents, our children are born of us.
We are the same as plants, as trees, as other people, as the rain that falls. We consist of that which is around us, we are the same as everything. If we destroy something around us, we destroy ourselves. If we cheat another, we cheat ourselves.
2. Everything Changes
Life is like a river flowing on and on, ever-changing. Sometimes it flows slowly and sometimes swiftly. It is smooth and gentle in some places, but later on snags and rocks crop up out of nowhere. As soon as we think we are safe, something unexpected happens.
Once dinosaurs, mammoths, and saber-toothed tigers roamed this earth. They all died out, yet this was not the end of life. Other life forms like smaller mammals appeared, and eventually humans, too. Now we can even see the Earth from space and understand the changes that have taken place on this planet. Our ideas about life also change. People once believed that the world was flat, but now we know that it is round.
3. Law of Cause and Effect

The law of cause and effect is known as karma. Nothing ever happens to us unless we deserves it. We receive exactly what we earn, whether it is good or bad. We are the way we are now due to the things we have done in the past. Our thoughts and actions determine the kind of life we can have. If we do good things, in the future good things will happen to us. If we do bad things, in the future bad things will happen to us. Every moment we create new karma by what we say, do, and think. If we understand this, we do not need to fear karma. It becomes our friend. It teaches us to create a bright future.



The Buddha said,
"The kind of seed sown
 will produce that kind of fruit.
 Those who do good will reap good results.
 Those who do evil will reap evil results.
 If you carefully plant a good seed,
 You will joyfully gather good fruit."
                                    Dhammapada

A day to myself

Today was one of those rare days... where there was NO ONE in the house.  Well, except ME and the dogs!
I turned up my music... and danced and sang my way through the house... cleaning!!  Oh yes, my life is just THAT exciting!!!  Actually... it was exactly what I needed!

I scrubbed the living room floor... moved the furniture, straightened out the area rug and vacuumed it.  I am still working on my 40 bags and moving right along with the progress.  I also dusted then organized my "control binders".  I went through the school binders and made sure we have everything we need for the upcoming week... since this week will be SUPER hectic.

Nathan has one more beginning of the year assessment to complete.  We have a TON of vocabulary words to get to know.  And some art to finish up.
I cant really complain about the start of this year... it has been going far smoother than I had thought it would.  I think Nathan has matured quite a bit over the summer... and as long as we still to the diet, things go really well... actually fun!!

The kids started their "Fantasy Art" lessons at the Art Assoc of Harrisburg today.  They all seemed to enjoy it... I think they hoped to jump into creativity on the first day... but the instructor took it slow today.  All three of them are excited about next week... so that is a good sign!

Tomorrow I take Gunner and Kanga to be evaluated for training!  I am nervous and excited all at the same time!!  I am anxious to see what they think. 
I think we finally got to a point where Kanga has leveled out.  It has been days since she has latched her teeth onto me... for that I am thankful.  I really wasnt sure how much longer I could tolerate that crap!  Most of my bruises are fading too!!  The crazy things I get excited about!  LOL
We took Kanga yardsaling with us Saturday...  she didnt like it when Stacy got out of the truck without her!!  She whined and cried and watched him like a hawk!--

Stacy and  I got to spend the entire day together yesterday!!  We spent about 5 hours on the bike... LOVED IT!!!  Yesterday was perfect riding weather!!!  Yea, we need a few more days like yesterday!  We went out for a nice dinner, where we both ordered breakfast.  We also went for dessert... at DQ, of course!  Just an awesome day.
Oh, Stacy got to test drive a Fiat... he has been itching to do that for awhile now.  We talked about buying one... but it just isnt going to happen right now!  He just got a brand new car last year, which he loves... I just got my truck last year, and I WILL be buried in that truck... and I am sure as hell NOT giving up my 100% paid for, fun to drive, fast, little CRX!!  I think it would be retarded to add another car payment when the need just isnt there.  Although... I really did like the color...but only because it reminds me of my truck!  LOL
They call it "expresso"--

My happy hubby, during our test drive--

Gratz Fair is this week.  Trying to figure out where we will be scheduling that in during our busy week.  I think Stacy will be taking Nathan Tuesday night for the truck demo event.  I will be taking Brittany to gymnastics.

I spent some time working in the garden this evening. Time to start preparing for winter.  I will be taking my gardening indoors... in containers!!  So I have to start planning for that. I cant wait to share my progress with container gardening with everyone! 
OHHHH... we have hops!!!  Exciting!!

I think we are all ready for Ellie to have her puppies.  My new thermometer should be here tomorrow... so I can start taking her temp, and waiting for it to drop!  THEN I will know I cant venture too far from her... because puppies will be making an appearance within 24 hours!
Her whelping box is all ready... and she is getting use to it. 
She is starting to have trouble jumping up on the couch now... poor little thing.

I think that is all I have for now.
Time to go sit back and relax... and mentally prepare for the week ahead! 

Tall tales

I'm tellin ya... after Nathan's 5th grade year, I am going to be the oldest, smartest 5th grader!! LOL!!!
This week we are working on writing a Tall Tale!  Well, Nathan is working on writing one... I am just here explaining the use of  vivid word choices and exaggerations!  LOL! 
I must admit, writing has always been one of my passions.  I just havent done it in a long time.  I may have to participate in some of his writing assignments this year!
I will say it again... I LOVE GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS!!  The internet is FULL of them!  It has really made it a lot easier for us to get through these assignments... and just about everything else we have to do.

It is amazing how quickly our days fly by now that we are back in school!  Our week did manage to get better after the "food" issues we had earlier on.  I also found that Nathan had been hitting the stash of GRAPE LICORICE that Debbie bought him while they were at the beach!!!  I swear... NO ONE listens!!!  Needless to say... to the trash that went.

Ellie had her follow up vet visit... so they could do an x-ray and determine exactly how many puppies she is carrying... and the magic number is----  2!!  So, they are hopeful that she will be able to birth them with no problems.  They were concerned that if there was only one... it would just  be too big for her to deliver.
I will be back at the vet's office tomorrow with Gunner... for vaccinations!  Oh joy!!!  I HATE taking him... he is a complete asshole!!  BUT, I want to make sure he is current on his flu vaccine before he starts K-9 Academy!  Doggy Flu is nasty this year.

I just found out a friend of mine lost her battle with cancer.  It is just so freakin sad.  She was diagnosed about 2 months ago... she had lung cancer that spread to her brain and liver.  She had brain surgery to remove the brain tumor... but never got a chance to start chemo for the rest, because she couldnt recover from the surgery. 
I know her kids are hurting so bad right now... she was an awesome mother and grandmother.  They were all very close.
"That Sucks" doesnt even begin to cover it.  I HATE cancer!

Stacy is picking up dinner on his way home... it's a pizza and subs kind of night.  Too bad if it fits into our diet or not.  I'm not perfect.

The kids are going to spend the night at my grandparent's tomorrow night.  It will be a nice little break... although it always ends up causing more issues than it is worth sometimes.
Drama is still high with my "mother's" bullshit... and the kids dont want to have to see her.  All I can say is... that if she does show up there... there is a good chance that the kids will never again go down to spend time with my grandparents.  I have told them how the kids feel... I guess the ball is in their court now.

Blah... I just feel like shit... I am about sick of this Fibro bullshit!  I have another damn headache and tylenol isnt helping at all.
I guess I will just go and lay down for a bit.  Stacy can take over the house for a bit.

A few rough days...

I have had a few rough days around here lately.

While camping I threw ALL of our "healthy eating rules" out the window.  I let the kids drink soda... something I NEVER do!  And colored gatorades... another big NO NO!  Add store bought, boxed up "convenience" snacks and the word "rough" just doesnt describe it!!!!!
I know better.  But since this was a last minute camping trip... I figured 2 little days of avoiding our diet couldnt possibly hurt.  HHHAAAAA!!!!
Nathan has been whiny... cant focus... wont do what is needed... cries when I wont jump immediately to "help" him... and has the crappiest of attitudes!!  Which landed his ass grounded last night and unable to participate in our evening's plans.  And today had to do some extra chores as a punishment. 
Although, today was a little better than yesterday... thank God!!!

Trying to get into a good school routine has been a real challenge for me.  I just cant get past the wrench that school has tossed into things!  I will get it... I just dont deal with change very well... and with trying to figure out the best way to teach Nathan, everything else has been pushed aside.
I am a day late getting laundry done.  It use to take me one day... Monday.  Today I am still trying to get everything done... along with the camping stuff.  It was A LOT of laundry!!!  I forgot to hand wash Brittany's gymnastics leotard... boy, that upset the hell out of her.  She really needs to get a bit less picky and decide on another one she can live with wearing... so it wont be a problem any more.

Today I wasnt feeling 100%... which really put me in a "down" mood.  My Fibro is causing me trouble... and my head has been pounding.  I really get sick and tired of feeling sick and tired.  Some days are easier to push through than others.  To day was NOT one of those days, unfortunately.

The garden is still producing TONS of fresh veggies!!  I have another sink full of tomatoes that need dealt with ASAP.  Didnt happen today... like I had hoped.  I picked a bunch more peppers and hot peppers... I am sending them to work with Stacy.  I already have more than we will ever use frozen... and after my last afternoon spent cutting those hot peppers... I AM DONE with those lil buggers!!!  My hands burned for an entire day!!
Stacy wants to have our annual "Harvest Gathering" at the end of this month, beginning of Oct.  So, I am already thinking hard about what goodies I want to prepare for that... if even we manage to pull it off this year.  Last year I said the hell with it... and cancelled it.  We were dealing with a bunch of crap and I didnt want the drama.  Time will tell.  I am still feeling like there isnt enough of me to go around.  HomeSchooling isnt  easy, and takes up a lot of time.  Especially when you have a "unique learner"... I spent a ton of time looking for visual aids and extra "helpers"... which usually do help tremendously!  5th grade is so much harder!!  LOL!!!  He has so many vocabulary words... for each and every subject.  It is hard to keep track of them all.  Have I mentioned how many binders we use?!?!  LOL 
I am always on the hunt for ideas to make things more manageable for Nathan.

Brittany had to sit down and put together her own Personal Learning Plan today.  It is crazy that she is already have to think about her college plans!  She has a pretty good idea of what she wants to do as an adult... and that impresses the hell out of me.
She is working really hard this year... and has a target GPA that she wants to keep!
Brittany is also kicking ass in gymnastics!  She is making HUGE leaps forward... and soon hopes to make team!

I am not going to get into our Kanga progress much today.  Yesterday we had a GREAT day... today not so good.  I have thought and re-thought this... and the only thing I can come up with is STACY... or the fact that we were in Gunner's domain today!!  Those were the only differences today.
We are moving into some separation anxiety... which doesnt much surprise me.  I am desperate to figure out her destructive CHEWING on EVERYTHING issue...  Since now we need to replace our side kitchen floor! 
I have decided to seek out the help of a German Shepherd expert... and at least give that a try before I give up.
We ARE seeing progress.  That is without a doubt.  I just need to be more patient and understanding... and not get so discouraged in our 3 steps forward, 6 steps back dance we are dancing.  I did go the entire day today with out her trying to bite me!!  This is big progress!!  Since she was thinking it would get her what she wanted.  Little did she realize I have been bitten by bigger and better dogs.... LOL!!!  And I WONT give in, no matter what!  I am the one in charge... NOT her!!!
I am still using her feeding times as training times.  She is getting the basic commands... no doubt.  She has a pretty good recall... and knows "sit", "down", "drop" and "touch" pretty solid. 
I think tomorrow will be another away from the house training and play time...to see what reaction we get.  AND I will be setting up a time to meet with the GSD person to see what she thinks.
I am REALLY hoping that I can take BOTH Kanga and Gunner all the way in some sort of shepherd sporting events...  time will tell.


Sooo... Lately I have been doing REALLY well with cutting out store bought cleaners, and going a more natural way of cleaning. 
I have been making my own laundry detergent, and dishwasher detergent.
I have found an all purpose "recipe" that I plan on trying in the near future that requires "Castile Soap" and Tea Tree Oil.
I know vinegar is the way to go because of it's disinfecting properties... but I cant have my entire house smelling like vinegar.
Anyone have any thoughts or experience... please let me know!!  I need to figure out where to buy castile soap!!  LOL

I guess that is all I have for now.  I got the chance to soak in my wonderful jetted tub this evening.  It really did make me feel a bit better... and gave me some time to clear my mind.
I have to make Stacy's lunch yet... and then throw my LAST load of laundry in the dryer.  THEN...I AM GOING TO BED!!!  :-)  

Oh... one more "rant"...
Something that REALLY has me upset this evening.
My oldest and dearest friend had a stroke a few weeks ago.  The last time I spoke to her was her birthday... and we were talking about a lunch date.  It isnt uncommon for us to go weeks without speaking... we are both busy Momma's!!!  So I thought nothing of it really.
Today, I found out about her stroke... FROM FB!!!  Apparently she isnt doing well... from what I can piece together.  I have been trying to contact her family... but have not been successful.
I guess all I can do is send up extra prayers!  :-(

What a trip!!

I made a decision on Friday, that I wasnt quite sure of...  I was actually pretty nervous about it!!  BUT, it all did work out and we had an amazing trip!!

What would that be?!?
Taking Kanga camping with us.

Thursday was a pretty rough day for Kanga.  She had an "interesting" afternoon with Gunner, out in the yard... and I was really thinking the dog had lost all sense.  I knew I could NOT leave her home with Courtney, because there was no way Courtney could handle the ever changing sides of Kanga.  
So, for everyone's safety (or so I hoped)... I chose to take Kanga with us.  I have NO problem telling ppl to NOT approach my dog... I have a pretty strong personality, so ppl tend to listen to what I am saying... especially if I am in their face enough!  LOL

All in all... GREAT, FANTASTIC  WEEKEND!  We only had 1 incident that I was concerned about Kanga biting out of fear... and it was FAR from her fault, and she handled it really well.  Some dumb lady left her dog get away (a 125+lb hound of some sort... HUGE)... then came running up to us because we caught her dog before any of the dogs got hurt!  In the process... the dipshit backed Kanga in a corner... but Kanga looked to Stacy for guidance and she got it!!  I am sooooooooo proud of her.  Crisis avoided!  Dipshit got her dog back... on with our trip!!

Kanga has come A LOOOOOONG way in the few weeks she has been here.  She has gained sooo much confidence.  There was NO WAY she could have handled ANY of our weekends activities 3 weeks ago!!  That would have been setting her up for failure.
She is growing leaps and bounds.  With A LOT of work every day.  We have to physically exhaust her before any changes can take place mentally!  It isnt easy tiring this girl out!!  LOL!!

I think this weekend was a huge step forward for Kanga developing a bond... with Stacy!  (Who would have thought that?!?)  He has turned into a SUPER handler for her... she trusts hims, she looks at him for guidance and he gives her clear, specific cues that she can read... no wavering in his emotions or demeanor when it comes with dealing with her.
It is awesome to watch.

Anyway... Our camping trip!!!
It rained late Friday night (with a HUGE, scary storm that passed through) and then again Saturday evening and night.  BUT, the wicked weather that the park rangers came around warning everyone about seemed to pass us by... it also cleared out most of the campers...LOL!

Friday was low key... set up, settling in... a nice evening fire.  Lots of chit chatting and watching the dogs act crazy and play.  We also took Sprocket with us... and of course Ellie.
We were all surprised that come "bed time"... Kanga and Sprocket BOTH settled into bed with me and Stacy!  I really wasnt sure how she would react to being in such a small space with us.  Well, it was NO problem at all... once she sniffed everything and everyone out and relaxed.

We got some sight seeing and a few "walks" in Saturday.  We originally set out for a hike... but it started to rain on us pretty good, so we headed back to the camper and decided to take the truck up to Canyon Vista. 
Well, THAT was where we learned that Kanga has some unknown talents!!!  The dog is a natural rock climber.  She would make an awesome search and rescue dog!!!  NOTHING stopped her!!!  Stacy and her climbed, leaped, jumped and took on the scariest of terrain!  If Stacy did it... then told Kanga to do it... she followed.  No doubt in her mind!  It was impressive. 
Sprocket was the "butthead"!!!  He barked at everyone and anyone around!  It wasnt his nice... come pet me bark either!  I had to take him out of the situation and hike down the road alone with him.  I was NOT a happy camper! 

After that... we headed to High Knob... but the approaching storm sent us back to the camper to make dinner and play cards.

Kanga napping under the table while we played card:

We had soooo much fun playing all kinds of card games!!  The evening passed quickly!  We only ended up with a little bit of fire time Saturday... long enough to cook some chicken, in between the rain showers.
We got some entertainment out of the amateur campers packing up their really expensive camper... and all sat and watched as the guy left their minivan in gear and it with the camper almost attached to it rolled away with their dog beside it and their kid in it!!!  The woman caught the run away train wreck...leave it to a mom to save her child!!!  Even better... the guy pulling out a garden kneeling pad to put under his knees when he reached under to hook up the safety chains! 
ENTERTAINMENT! 
Did I mention the HUGE logs they brought for fire wood?!?  WOW!
In between rain showers Stacy took the kids over to the creek to play in the water... even tho it was kind of chilly... they had a blast, and Nathan brought home a rock.  LOL!

Us being silly... Sprocket's paw is as big as Nathan's face!!!  LMBO:

Yesterday, before heading home... we packed up, tore down the camper and then headed back up to the rock garden to do some more rock climbing and get some pic and video!  It was so fun!!! Added bonus... there was NO ONE else in the area. (Sprocket was punished and had to stay in the back of the truck in a crate... since he couldnt handle it the day before)
Nathan really proved his bravery too... he was jumping and leaping with Stacy too!!  It was so awesome to see the trust Nathan has in Stacy.  When Stacy promised him he wouldnt let him fall... Nathan let go of fear and bounced across to the next rock!!
My dare devil son:

Brittany stuck with me... and showed me the less treacherous ways around the rocks... since I missed that lesson on Saturday, because of Sprocket!  

By 2 we were back at the camper hooking up and heading home!
Our weekend went far too fast... and we all agree that this was one of our best camping trips this summer.  I LOVE that area!!

It was an awesome weekend with quality time spent together!  Nathan ate like a horse... Brittany and I shared taking care of poor little pregnant Ellie... Stacy cooked!  LOL!!  

When we got home... I decided we would take advantage of the trust we built with Kanga over the weekend... and we would introduce her into our pack.  So, we brought her in the house, and one by one brought in ALL of the dogs!
It has had its "moments"... but we worked through them.  After everyone spending some time together in the living room watching TV... we all headed to bed.
It was pretty awesome when both Gunner and Kanga hopped into bed with us... and no growling or fighting occurred!!

This morning we had some issues... because in the mornings ALL of the dogs are wound up and "play fighting"... well, Kanga wasnt a big fan of that to say the least!!!  She attacked Nanuq...who came back at her... with the back up of Sakari AND Gunner!!
UGH!  I, of course, found myself in the middle of the chaos and Nanuq's teeth hit my leg... then he took off running in the opposite direction!!  LOL!!  I quickly got control of the situation...(no one likes it when Momma is pissed!!)
Since calming down... Kanga and Nanuq have made nice and even did some pouncing and playing in the dining room... until I put a stop to that too.  LOL

None of my dogs really know what to do with Kanga.  She is so backwards!  I am really hoping she watching them interact and learns a few things.
They all approach her very slow now... and Nanuq even lays down in front of her with his tail wagging... letting her know he is NOT a threat and has no intentions of hurting her.  His down fall is he is a bit of a rough sniffer... very intrusive!  LOL

Today it is back to our usual routine.  Plus a shit load of laundry to do!  EVERYTHING is damp and muddy... because we were all damp and muddy!  LOL 
I have a ton of blankets and sheets to wash... tons of towels from trying to keep the dog mud and muck out of the camper... PLUS the camper is up and airing out! 
Always so much work for a few short days away... but ohhhhh so worth every second of it!  :-)
Cant wait to do it again!! 

Everyone hanging out last night:

CAMPING!!

Ah yes, we will be leaving this afternoon for a much needed camping trip!!!  :-)
Ya know what else that means...???
FB will be temporarily safe from my endless opinions and cruelty!!  LMBO!!

FB is such a HUGE source of entertainment for me.  There are days that I just sit back, shake my head, and wonder how ppl have survived this long!
I have a hard time understanding ppls priorities... or their lack of!  I mean really?!?!?

Oh well...
Yesterday was an interesting day.  I broke down and took Ellie to the vet.  They confirmed that my little Shorkie will be having puppies!  I did the walk of shame out of that place!!  I know better.  And I have NEVER put off getting any of our dogs "fixed"!
I will admit, it is a little exciting... and a whole lot stressful!!  We go back next week for another xray... to see if they can get a better idea of how many pups she is carrying.  If there is only one, we are afraid it will be too big for her to have on her own.
I have added a special kind of canned food to Ellie's diet.  She isnt taking in enough food... so I am trying to entice her to eat more... it seemed to be working last night!  I am not sure where she put all that she ate...lol
Me and my girl, at the Vet's office

We didnt get to go on our walk yesterday.  The vet appt really messed up our day.  It took us some extra time to get through our school work... Nathan is writing a "Character Sketch" on Stacy!!  He really came up with some good ideas!  We started out with a "Web" type graphic organizer  (greatest things EVER... that I have found for helping Nathan put her thoughts into written works!), and we got out our "rough draft".  Today we do some proof reading and hopefully get a final copy typed up!!  With Nathan I use both pencil/paper AND allowing him to type out final drafts.  Writing is more difficult since he has some "learning differences"... and I am not doing this to frustrate him.  Although I do make  him practice his handwriting on our rough drafts and book work.  I guess it is just my way of making it a little "fun"!  LOL

I finally managed to get my peppers stuffed... and I made a batch of yummy meatballs with spaghetti for dinner last nite!!  YUMMY!!!  Everyone had happy tummies.

I also got another lovely dog induced injury last night... which I wont get into.  But it hurts like hell... and pisses me off!!!  Grrrr!!!!
Here is a picture of Gunner AND Kanga!  If you look REALLY close, she is hiding behind the tree!!  LMBO

Gunner could care less about Kanga... But she just cant seem to understand NOT to lunge at him for no apparent reason or warning!!  THAT pisses him off!!!  Ugh.
Here she is watching him play fetch-

She wanted to play too... but just didnt know how to go about it "the right way".



Next week I will be focusing on getting our "FALL Family Pictures" in the works!!  It takes a bit of planning... because I want to make sure JOSHUA gets his butt up here for them!!  I am going to be scoping out a few places for lighting at particular times of the day... and going from there.
I was attempting to get extended family in on a HUGE family picture... but after a couple of failed attempts, I have given up on the idea.

Ok... not much time for blogging this morning... gotta fly through school and get packed up for the weekend!! 
Enjoy the weekend of peace without me!  LOL

Here is Nathan loving up on Sakari.... one of our "love lumps".  We have such an awesome "pack" of dogs... all love the kids, and there is no doubt they would do whatever necessary to protect them.

Rolling right along!

I am first going to pose a question today...  Something that boggles my mind...
Why is it that we have soooo many ppl on welfare and getting food stamps??  What really gets me... Why dont some of those ppl spent some of that "free" money on a few packets of seeds... and grow some of their own HEALTHY food?!?!  Seriously, $2 a packet... and the end result is TONS of fresh veggies...?!?!?

I would say at least 75% of these ppl have the internet.  And most of that 75% play the stupid FB games.  Here is an idea... spend that time RESEARCHING how to grow your own food!!  Stop relying on tax dollars to pay your way!!!  I am not real sure if these ppl are living in the same world as I am... but EVERYONE is broke... even our government!!  Why not do something to help yourself and our broken system!
In the spring, I spent about $25 on seeds for my garden.  I have harvested foods worth probably 1000x what I spent on seeds!!!  AND, what is even better--- I know exactly where it came from... no pesticides, no genetic bullshit... FRESH!!!  Seems like a no brainer to me!

Dont have the space you say...?!?!
Well, on the same FB that most are playing games on... there is some GREAT resources for growing all of your favorite fruits and veggies in CONTAINERS!!! 
WOW!
This is what I plan on doing over the winter months, in our side kitchen.
I have even seen some ppl use the bottoms of empty 2 liter bottles of soda... to grow beets!!!  It is amazing!  I am sure we all live close to someone that drinks soda, and they would be more than happy to save those empty bottles for you! 

What is even cooler.... you can FREEZE your harvest to use during the winter months!!!  I prefer canning a lot of it... but that can get expensive when first starting out.  But, freezer bags really arent that expensive in the big picture... especially if you spend that free money from the government on cigarettes!!  For go a pack... buy some freezer bags... your lungs will thank you!

OK... on to other things...
I know I am probably speaking far too soon... but school is going really smooth around here!  There is such a HUGE change in Nathan... that our days have been filled with giggles and happy memories!!  I cant tell you how much of a relief that is!!  Last year was ROUGH to say the least... but we managed through.  It is so worth it.  He was left to struggle in public school.
Brittany has her typical average score of 95% ... she has a goal to take all honors courses next year.  She could have done it this year... but she didnt want to be too overwhelmed with her first year of high school.  Again...another kiddo I am super proud of.
Courtney has been dealing with school pretty well.  We have had some rough evenings... but we worked through them.  The reality of "working" and coming home to the same chores didnt thrill her.  All I can really say is... "welcome to the real world, darling!"  LOL
Nathan had his first art class yesterday... that turned out to be really fun...  it was all about texture and lines... and tied in some of our SS lesson on cave men drawing their "stories" out on cave walls!  A crumpled up brown grocery bag was our cave wall!!  ;-)

Nathan, Brittany and I took a nice 3 mile walk after lunch yesterday!!!   I LOVE the freedom and flexibility we have.  Plus, there is so much to see and learn when we walk.  Yesterday it was proven that HoBo WILL follow that nose of his... right into TROUBLE!  He got away from us... and went right to the assholes house with all of the cats!!!  UGH!
We are so blessed to have such a nice place to walk... and so many awesome views to take in...
We even had fun trying to find the soybeans in the soybean fields!  Fuzzy little things!  LOL

I am pretty sure our walk was more than HoBo's and Kanga's noses could handle!!!  There was soooo much to smell!!!  They were on sensory over load!!!  They LOVED it!!!  At one point, HoBo was trying to chase a butterfly... it was sooo cute!  lol

After our mid day walk, we got back to school work and finish without any trouble.  We even breezed through math yesterday!

Once Stacy got home... we decided a family tennis match would be a nice we to end our day.  We always have soooooo many laughs when we play tennis!!   It is also nice to see Courtney be active AND have fun while doing it!  She really likes tennis... wish I would have known that long ago!
Here they are... all about "business"... LOL!  

Of course, after tennis we had to make our way to DQ for a 'before bed' snack!  LOL
It was a nice way to end our day!

Surprisingly, we all got up in time this morning to start our day!

Cant wait to see what today has in store for us!!

We are really starting to get the "itch" to go camping!!!  I am hoping to be in the woods this weekend... if it all pans out.  I may even have to take the kids if Stacy ends up working Sunday.  I will have to take a peak at the weather and see where we end up!! 
All I know... August was a looooong month without any camping adventures... now we need to get some in! 
:-)

Ya know... I dont know if I am raising my kids 100% right.  I guess none of us really know that.  I do know that we are all having fun trying to figure it out.  Dont get me wrong...we have our stressful moments, and there are times when I want to scream... or cry... or both.
It is always so amazing to me... when we are just hanging out, or walking... and talking... just how much about life I have taught my kids... without even knowing it! 
I love that the kids have a love for animals, like I do.  I know they will always do the right thing when it has to do with a 4 legged critter.  They know that EVERY life is a precious gift... one to be valued.  I am so proud of them for that!!
I also know that Brittany is counting down the days until hunting season... and there are some camping/hunting trips twirling in our heads!  LOL

Ok... time to get our day started! 

We made it!!

Yes, the first day of school was a HUGE success!!  We had a bit of a rough start... but Nathan really pulled it together and managed to make the day go smooth!
I am soooo super impressed with how much he has improved in his reading!!  All of those trips to the library really paid off!!  I am also impressed with his writing.  He had  no trouble getting his thoughts out on paper yesterday... which is a MAJOR improvement from last year! 
Here he is working on Language Arts... we are both amused by the giant eraser! 

Since Nathan has "Learning Differences"... we find as much as possible to keep the day going on a happy note... this eraser made making mistakes FUN!!  Just what we need to keep on a positive note!!  :-)
I am so glad I chose to teach my kids this way.  Nathan was getting so lost in the public school system.  Not just 'lost'... but depressed to the point of giving up!  Now if I can just find ways to keep math fun... we will be doing even better!
Once our school day was done... I rewarded him with a temp tattoo!  He was a happy kid... and I didnt have to use FOOD as a reward.  We all know I HATE rewarding with food!  Although I do make the exception for icees... LOL!!

Today we are starting with ART!!  Cant wait to see what is in store for us!!

Brittany also had a good first day!  She is excited about taking Sign Language this year!!  And, with keeping with her "over achiever" self... see whizzed through yesterday's classes, and started today's!!

After her first day, she got to endure 2.5 hours of gymnastics!  AND, she got her medal for kicking butt with the cartwheels for a cure St Jude fundraiser!!  I am so proud of her.  She got a bunch of goodies as well!
This is what Britt looks like at 10 pm, after a day of school and a night of gymnastics... ROCKING her medal:

She also got a nice cool T-shirt:

I am so very proud of her!!!
I am also proud that... in her hunt for a new leotard... she has decided she wants one that has the pink ribbon, for breast cancer... to show her support for her Nana... to EVERYONE!! 
She really is an amazing kid... even though we dont always see eye to eye!

After I make it through today's lessons...I have to start making stuffed peppers!!  I have a TON of peppers... and a TON of hamburger from our last steer... with another soon to need the freezer space!! 
I managed to get all of my hot peppers in the freezer yesterday... but damn my hands were on fire for HOURS!! 
The rain has kept me out of the garden yesterday and it looks like today too!! :-(  Of course... now we are getting flood warnings!  Last year this time is when we had the big flood! 

Stacy is still not sure what is going to happen with the contract at the Mill... or if they are going to end up striking or not.  I hate NOT knowing what to expect.  Of course we have savings put aside... if they do end up striking... since we went through this stress 3 yrs ago with the last contract!!  See... live and learn!!!  ;-)  I just hate sitting and waiting... not knowing what will happen from one day to the next!

Let's see...
I am still sticking with our "real food" diet... as much as possible!  I only buy Feingold approved ingredients... which means NO artificial colors, flavors OR preservatives!  Thank God for Hornings!!  That store is a God send with this!!
Keep that in mind when I share recipes on here.  I go to the extreme of researching and buying only "real" ingredients!
Just like last time... I will note my variations at the end.

Maple Mustard Pork Chops

1lb boneless pork chops
1/2 stick of butter for frying
Pepper to taste
2teas Dijon Mustard
1 Cup canned chicken broth
4Tblspn Maple Syrup
1Tblspn red wine vinegar

~Pepper both sides of pork chops.  Melt butter in skillet. Saute for 5 minutes each side.  Remove from pan.

~Mix mustard and chicken broth into pan and cook 5 minutes.  Stir in Maple syrup and vinegar and cook another 5 minutes.

~Put chops back into skillet and heat through.  Serve chops with sauce.

My variations:
I did NOT use butter... I used coconut oil!
I also didnt use canned chicken broth... I used chicken broth that I made after a crock pot chicken meal, which was frozen.

Summer = Over (revised)

Today is our first official day of school!  That means our "summer" is officially OVER! 
At just a little after 7am, we already have tears flowing... well, Nathan does.  I guess it will take us a bit of adjustment to settle into our new routine.  It doesnt help that he got up when Courtney got up... at 5am!!  At least he did his morning "list"... which is getting dressed, making his bed, and eating breakfast!  So, I will be thankful for baby steps at this point!

Things have been hectic around here lately... which is why I havent blogged.  I just havent had the time. 
Over the weekend I pulled off a boat load of hot peppers and sweet peppers... I will have to do something with them today.  I also got another nice bunch of green beans!! 
My fall cucumber plants have sprouted... still waiting to see what happens with our beets and carrots...and lettuces.
GOURDS....  I forgot to share our gourd bounty!!  WOW... to we have a lot!!!  And to think... they are all "volunteer" plants that grew out of my compost pile!!  It wasnt easy getting the all out of there... since they are growing on the steep side of our sand mound... and into the duck pen!  

We had a really nice Holiday weekend.  Saturday Brittany, Stacy and I took Gunner hiking... and to find some GeoCaches!  It was hot as hell... and my back was bothering.  But, it was still nice to get out and about.  Fall will soon be here... and then we will be doing a lot more hiking... I LOVE the cooler weather and lack of bugs!!!

Sunday we packed up and headed to Carlisle.  We took a nice little cookout to my Dad and Linda.  I am soooo glad I thought of that!!!  The facility has a grill and a nice covered porch.  So it was easy to make happen.  The kids talked and talked... Dad and Linda listened and listened!  LOL!  It was really fun.  It is also great to see so much progress with Linda!  She is so excited about going HOME tomorrow too!!
I am looking forward to keeping up with our weekly visits! 

Yesterday was my errand day... TSC, grocery shopping... no library, since it was a holiday and they were closed.  I guess I will have to fit that in some other time this week.
Today is the start of Brittany's "Intermediate" level gymnastics classes!!  She is pretty excited.  I am just hoping to get that far into the day... lol

Yesterday marked 8 days that Kanga has been with us.  She had a 'rough' weekend.  With my back being out of whack... she sure took advantage of that.  I wanted to tie her ears in a damn knot... but obviously, did not.
I feel like we took BIG steps backwards over the past 3 days... and it does not have me happy!  I am hoping to see improvement and progress again over the week. 
I will say that she is growing in leaps and bounds in becoming more 'dog like'... she has been learning  A LOT from HoBo and Sprocket... even Amaruq has shown her patience!

I guess that is all I have for today.  Tomorrow I will have another recipe to share!!

I am sending prayers and positive vibes to my Dad today... as he works out all of the final details of getting Linda home.
I am also praying that after the "time out" I sent Nathan to... he will come back a bit more calm and able to get on with our day!

I have "We Made it Through the First Day of School Tattoos" planned... if we make it to this afternoon... LOL! 

Stay dry and have a great day!!