Yawkey

Yawkey

For the last week, we've been walking around with a hole in our hearts.  We would have moments when we would think we needed to walk Nick, hear him or need to check his water.  He was a part of our daily life.  But within the last 48 hours, we've fixed that!  Jake contacted a breeder who had a 10 month old chocolate lab male.  They gave him their phone number to call and set up a visitation.  I called yesterday afternoon and talked to the owner.  She said this dog in particular was living with a trainer (literally 5 minutes from our house) and that we could stop by and see him.  By 3, I had called and set up a "meet and greet" for 5:30.  There was some excitement building in the car as we made our way there.  This dog is amazing!  He's still got some puppy energy, but no more puppy teeth.  He's been crate/leash/hunting & field trained.  The kids loved him!  Jake LOVED him.  I love him too!!!  So we wrote them a check and brought him home.

We weren't exactly ready for this new member of our family.  But we did our best.  He was extremely nervous and wouldn't come in the house for about 2 hours.  He would just run around the back yard.  Finally, I wore him down and he warmed up to me and came inside.  Yawkey (I picked the name) soon explored his new home and made himself relax with "mom and dad".  It was so nice to have this new source of love in our home.  We will ALWAYS miss Nick.  But we will be busy with Yawkey too!

Hanging with dad, first night

Furry Family

This is our first child, Nick.  We got him for our first Christmas together (1998).  He was one of a liter that was left at the shelter.  Before we were a couple, after Nick came along we became a family.  Daily walks (sometimes 2) became a normal routine.

He turned 14 last December.  We've been told by several people how amazing he both look and acted for a dog his age.  My secret, is that it was because of all the love he got.

We had to say "Good Night" to our booga for the last time this afternoon.  It has been hard, but it was the best thing.  It's amazing how you don't really miss something, until it's gone.  The house feels a little quiet.  But our memories echo in our hearts.  We love you, Nick.

Sleep Over

Last night was Allison's first sleepover at someone else's house.  Lucky for me, it was across the street. She was SO EXCITED!!!  As soon as she woke up, she started telling me the "list" of things she wanted to pack and take.  That was at 8 in the morning, the sleepover didn't start until 6 that evening.  It was a LONG day.  But boy, was she thrilled when the moment came for me to walk her over with her bag.  I texted Rachel this morning to see how the night went.  Her reply, "We are great.  Making pancakes and painting some craft they made last night.  She did awesome!  I will say abbey kept Allison up until 11.  Sorry.  Abbey stayed up later but I kept her quieter!  Is 10 ok for pick up?  They have a lot of plans!"  When I picked her up, both girls enquired as to when we can do it again.  I am so blessed to have neighbors like this.  I can't wait to see these two girls grow up together!!!

Diva Dash 2013

It was a cold and rainy morning.  That's how some horror stories start, but this is describing one of my favorite days.  Today was the Diva Dash 5K and Lil Princess Fun Run.  So, I signed Allison, Jen and myself up for it.  When my alarm went off this morning and I heard the rain, I instantly decided to SKIP the run.  I woke up and went to inform Allison of this new turn of events.  Her response was all it took for me to quickly change my mind.  She was crying big crocodile tears.  Her breathing was heavy and all she could get out was, "But MOMMY!  I.  WANT.  TO.  RUN."  Next thing I know, I'm lacing up my shoes and pinning her bib on her shirt.

The weather was less than ideal, but the company was more than adequate.  She inspires me to persevere.  Even when I think it doesn't matter.

This was Allison's FIRST run.  She was so determined to do it.  My 5K started at 8:30.  Allison hung out with some friends, in the freezing rain waiting.  I ran my run in less than 29 minutes!  I wanted to make sure she wasn't changing her mind.  She hugged me when I finished and I asked her if she wanted to go home.  Even though her teeth were chattering, she shook her head.  We waited another 30 minutes in the wind and rain.  Then it was her moment.  They lined the girls up by ages.  Allison was running with about 15 other 6 year olds.  Their distance was 250 yards.  She asked me to run with her, but I was the only mom out there.  So when the horn blew, I told her to go and I'd follow.  The pack of girls ran solid.  Allison ran the WHOLE way!  As soon as I caught up with her, I hugged her.  Told her how proud I was of her.  We walked to get her medal and headed for the car.  After we got in she started to cry and say, "Mommy, I was the last girl to cross the finish line!"  I turned and looked at her and said, "Sweetie, I am so proud of you.  It didn't matter when you crossed that line.  It matters that you finished and did your best."  She's already planning her next run.  She might be little like me.  :)

Allison and me, before

Allison waiting in the rain. 

This was Jen's second 5K!!! 

Our swag from today.

Bragging Rights

Jennifer McDaneld, RMA

That's right, World.  My sister is CERTIFIED!!!  And now is when I get on my soapbox and announce to everyone "how proud I am of her".

November 2011, Jen and I are hanging out on my basement couch.  She's talking about how she's getting tired of dealing with some of the people at her job.  I, being the BIG sister, grab the laptop and start searching job possibilities for her.  We discuss her various interests and the field becomes more narrow.  The idea of working in the medical field in some capacity seems to be clicking in her mind.  So I proceed to fill out interest forms at various places for her to get more information.  Fast forward to today.

She has completed the 15 month program for RMA (Registered Medial Assistant).  Which included an externship for the the last few months, and ended in them hiring her!  She recently found out that she not only passed the RMA exam, but did AWESOMELY!  This Saturday she will be getting the keys to her new "dream" loft apartment that will be closer to her work.

All I can say, "I am so proud of you.  For all of your hard work and dedication.  Each of your recent blessings is rightfully deserved.  I love you."

Kiss The Cook

It's so cold outside, I'm "forced" to cook dinner at home.  :)

So I am excited for dinner tonight!  I made Portuguese Chicken Soup.  I'm not a GREAT cook, but I'm determined.  It was so much fun.  It smells AMAZING!!!  Here is me documenting the event.

Prep Area

Saute onions, celery and garlic 

Add the rest of the ingredients 

Bring to a boil

Now, I heat up the rolls to serve with it and enjoy the rewards of my hard work.  :)

Winter Storm Q

Thank you, Storm Q!  Today became a "snow day" for everyone in the Arnett house.  The kids had no school, Jen's clinic was closed, Jake was post night call and Nick seems to ALWAYS be here.  :)

So we just HAD to get out in it!  Jake went for a run at 8:00 am, we went to the backyard for some fun.

 The view from our front door.

Yep, Jen is up to her knee in snow.  And it's still falling!!! 

Owen burying himself in snow. 

Face plant, in the softest snow EVER! 

Having fun! 

Not quite snowballs, but still cold. 

Nick is even eating the snow.  Possibly to get through it.

We came inside to warm up, bake cookies, start chili in the crockpot and drink hot chocolate.  Thank you, Storm Q!