Thursday's Thoughts

It's no secret that our dogs are just as neurotic as their owner. In a weird way, I wear that like a badge of honor as only a mother would. I thought I was dealing with one nut job (cough, Tripp, cough), but then we introduced another to the mix. Aww, we were young and clueless! When we got Beesly, it felt like we were working with a blank canvas. We had an adorable puppy and a fresh start — an opportunity to mold the PERFECT dog. Boy, were we wrong! 

The first three years with Miss B were a walk in the park. Our well-behaved and fluffy furry being was just as lovely as we hoped she'd be. Then we moved to Hawaii and settled into a secluded rental on the top of a steep hill. Enter Lil' Puna. Aside from the mold, ginormous cockroaches and centipedes, it felt like a slice of heaven, our own little island oasis. The only noises you'd hear were C-17s doing pattern work, a fountain trickling peacefully outside the house, or the occasional lost vehicle, which inevitably ended up stranded on the hill. But, I digress... 

Our current living sitch consists of an apartment. There are three floors, and we live on the second. We hear EVERYTHING, my friends. It never occurred to me that this might be an issue. When we moved in, I could see that both dogs were a little anxious and easily startled by sounds. I reasoned with Flyboy and we concluded that as soon as we got furniture they'd feel more at ease. Ha! Any time the neighbor above us started walking around or dropped something, our mutts would act as though they'd heard thunder or the sound of a gunshot. Whenever this occurs, Tripp finds a corner and hides. Who knew he could be so low-maintenance? Beesly, on the other hand, paces back and forth panting heavily. It drives me bonkers, but I figured she would eventually get used to the new sounds.

Since I spend the better part of the day with both hounds, it started wearing on me. Call me dramatic, but Flyboy would come home from work and I'd look at him like a worn-out mother just ready for the hand-off. I needed a moment of sanity — and maybe something mixed with gin. They were driving me b-a-n-a-n-a-s! When I'm home during the day, I don't turn on the TV. It can be too distracting, and I like a quiet working environment. I tried playing music, but even my eclectic mix of George Strait meets Jay Z wasn't cutting it for these two. How could I desensitize them? I thought about banging pots and pans. I started clapping randomly and opening/closing cabinets and drawers. They would look at me like I was crazy and then proceed with their naps, but the moment they heard a chair move upstairs, they were in panic mode yet again. 

Because I think Google is the solution to everything, I searched the following combination of words: dog + noises + anxiety. I was amazed at what I read, but most people recommended a white noise machine. I've used the app before and I honestly didn't think it would help, but in a moment of complete despair I revisited it to check out the various noise options. I scanned the catalog, but they all seemed too peaceful. I tested several options, but nothing phased them. The only noise I hadn't tried was "Clothes Dryer." You've got to be kidding me?! Curious and out of ideas, I gave it a shot. So I sat at my computer, with both dogs at my feet, and the sound of an imaginary tumbling dryer seemed to do the trick. Neighbors come and go, but Beesly is only partially phased. It's not a huge success, but I'll take what I can get! I didn't realize it was all that silly until I told my mom about my remedy. When I explain it, it sounds cray cray, but desperate times call for desperate measures. Thankfully, the only panic in the apartment these days, is the look on my face when I'm confused as to whether or not I'm ACTUALLY doing laundry. Gawd forbid, I leave my jeans in the dryer too long! Phew, it's just the white noise...

So, what's the craziest thing you've done for your pet?! C'mon and make me feel a little sane.

P.S. While my doggie duo is far from perfect, they're perfectly imperfect for me. We find ourselves doing the craziest things for them, but they love us unconditionally and bring us oodles of joy. And in Beesly's defense, I do make her play dress up a lot, but it doesn't appear that she hates it. The photo above says it all! For more background info on our dogs, Tripp and Beez, you'll want to read this post from the One Fine Day vault.

The Birthday Boy

Happy Birthday, Tripp!

Happy 10th Birthday, sweet boy! In a few short weeks, you will have been with our family for FIVE years. Can you believe it? I remember that Saturday in November so vividly. Your dad and I were newly married and we set out looking for plates and silverware at Target. We never made it inside to look at kitchenware, because we saw you sitting outside the Petco next door. Your big beautiful head looked down as people passed by. I drew a bead on you and immediately fell hard for your Eeyore-like personality, and I was certain you would make our new family whole. As your dad walked you around the shopping mall, I filled out paperwork and tried my hardest to convince the adoption agency that we were in this for the long haul. They were hesitant to adopt you to a young military couple, but we won them over with my persistence and your dad's winning personality. Once they finally agreed to let us keep you, they handed over your birth certificate and I knew it was meant to be. I got chills when I realized that we shared the same birthday. Any part of me that questioned whether this was the right (impulsive) decision went away. The answer was right there in front of me. I looked into your eyes and saw a blank stare; all 75 pounds of you shook because you were scared. You carried on like this for a long time; we grew frustrated. While we were aware of your rough past, we honestly thought love, long walks, and throwing a tennis ball would be enough. Boy, were we wrong! You didn't like any of that stuff. We were bamboozled! I watched countless episodes of The Dog Whisperer and spent hours online researching ways to "fix" you. Thanks for teaching me a thing or two about patience!

After six months of failing miserably, we introduced Beesly to our family. You were less than keen on her, but we saw signs of a "real" dog come to life. We'd never envisioned there was an alpha side to you, but she learned quickly that you were the boss around the house and you still are! It made your dad smile; it made me kind of nervous. Did we do the right thing? Eventually, you allowed yourself to love her. You've grown dependent on one another. Today, you're inseparable and livelier than ever. A once painfully submissive Retriever now has a boisterous and loving side. You were clueless about the purpose of dog toys and you didn't bark. These days, you can't get enough of a Frisbee and whenever your dad comes home from work, you exercise your voice with barks of excitement. You hated any form of affection, but now you walk into a room and seek it out on your own. I smile when I think about how far we've come. You made me sob incessantly, and you make me laugh hysterically. You'll always be a little awkward and quirky, but that's just the tune our family sings. You're one of a kind, and I love that about you! 

Tripp, you have so much life in you. I'm only grateful that we get to be around to witness your second wind!

The Pampered Pooch

Striped Bone Toy / Strawberry with Treat Spot / The Elements of Style / Retriever Topiary / Preppy Dog Collar

Goggle Dog Plate / Bone Cookie Cutter / Polka Dot Leash / Links Dog Harness / Dog Tag / Floral Collar

Molly Mutt Dog Duvet / Canine Coasters / Organic Biscuits / DIY: Treat Recipe / Prep School Stripe Leash / Dog Pail

Sailors Knot Lead / Bike Bell Dog / Pack-A-Bowl / Scottie Dog Card / Classic Dog Bed

Be sure to bookmark these fabulous pooch-related resources:

Mungo & Maud

(US E-Commerce site launches May 2012 -- I can't wait!!)

Harry Barker

Planet Dog

Mimi Green

Pecan Pie Puppies

Mascot

Molly Mutt

Hipster Puppies

Tripp & Beesly wish you a fur-filled week.

Toodles,

ANF

Life's Little Details: Part III

I hope you had a swell weekend. Saturday was busy with an early morning car appointment, an afternoon at work, and an evening trip to the airport to pick up Flyboy. He's home again, and I couldn't be happier! We spent Sunday relaxing at the beach and working in the yard. It was nice to just be together without any real plans. I've been looking forward to a lazy Sunday at Lil' Puna, and that's exactly the reason today's post isn't anything fancy. I wanted to take advantage of every bit of our weekend together. I thought I'd share some of my favorite Instagram moments from the past few weeks -- details that make life's design that much sweeter.

Cheerful Daffodillies to welcome spring in Hawaii.  / My part-time gig is a chance to get all gussied up.

My old case broke, so I ended up getting a new one at J.Crew. It's rubbery with a snazzy print. Me-ow! / A mid-morning Pinterest break.

Flyboy visited Missouri and sent me a few snapshots. I woke up to this image of Mizzou's Francis Quadrangle and it left me giddy with delight. / My two favorite people met up for a quick lunch date. I can't tell you how happy this makes me!

This adorable card from my mother-in-law was a sweet snail mail pick-me-up. / I ran some errands on Friday and looked over at my bags in the passenger seat. Would you say I have a serious Baggu illness?

Just as I mentioned earlier, my favorite part about working is the opportunity to play with color and accessories.

There's nothing quite like an evening with the pups, a bottle of Essie Ole' Caliente, and the most current issue of House Beautiful. / I've seen this quote pop up all over Pinterest and various blogs. It's so very true!

I promised myself I'd clean out my closet, and here's the finished product. I filled up three garbage sacks and made a trip to the local donation center. Out with the old and in with the new. Hello, spring! / I keep this journal on my nightstand. I always seem to get some of my best ideas late at night.

As you can tell, I'm a big fan of my gold ballet flats. They're not only practical, but precious as well! / This may seem a little silly, but it was a total coup when I woke up to check my email and got this little Twitter notice. Deborah Needleman is one of my role models. It was probably a random accident, but it made me ecstatic.

Beesly spent 30 minutes watching this very gecko. She's a curious and gentle giant.

A scene from yesterday's trip to the beach. Sitting in the sun with my toes in the sand and people watching is my favorite. / Our newest tenant at Lil' Puna, courtesy of the landlord. I thought I would be witty and name this 5-foot statue, Big Zen, but my dad came up with something even more clever --  Zen Affleck. 

When Flyboy's at home, he takes care of the yard work. I love that! I have very little business running a weed whacker.  Note: He's asked me to clarify that this particular work ensemble (madras lounge wear) doesn't leave the hill. Ever. / Another piece of snail mail sunshine from my good friend, Kim -- she's the queen of baking cupcakes. 

Tripp's pose in this picture reminds me of Will Ferrell in Step Brothers. / Beesly gets tickled when the Frisbee comes out.

Beez goes nuts when Tripp is playful. He's not a very excitable dog, so it's like Christmas for her when he gets feisty. / After about five minutes of Frisbee fun, Tripp retires to his corner and  Beesly is bummed out. Where'd he go?

Happy Monday!

Toodles,

ANF

Weekly Round-Up

Let's get right to it, shall we?

Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc

image via

I came home from work on Tuesday night, and I was just so happy with the way things have come together lately. It's amazing what can happen when I put my ego to the side, say "yes" to new opportunities, and let God take care of the rest. A year ago, I didn't know what I wanted out of this adventure. I felt very lost. I've been reminded lately that some of the best gifts in my life have been unanswered prayers. I need to keep this in mind when I feel doubtful and worry (my biggest mistake). At this moment in time, I feel confident in my future, and I really do like who I'm becoming. I'm going to try to hang on to this optimism for awhile!

image via

One of my best-loved moments this week can be attributed to Starbucks. I ordered my favorite iced beverage, sat in the parking lot in silence, and savored my first sip. There's just something so divine about an Iced Caramel Macchiato. Since Flyboy's away, I went for the real deal -- none of that skinny business! It was nothing short of amazing. The best part about this treat? Taking your first sip and tasting nothing but milk and caramel.

It wouldn't be a Friday round-up without a few of my favorite finds...

Gigi Wallet / Hot to Trot Bangle / Lined Paper Notepad / Rainy Day Ballet Flats / 

thxthxthx: Thank Goodness for Everything / Sheer Dot Scarf / Sailors Knot Dog Collar

We're a sight, kind of like Ouiser and her unruly St. Bernard, Rhett.

I took the fur kids in for their annual appointment yesterday, and there are only two words to describe the situation: HOT MESS. For days leading up to the appointment, I was anxious. Surprise, surprise! I'd never taken both of them to the vet by myself. In the past, I tried to stagger their annuals so I wouldn't have to deal with 170 lbs. of uncooperative dog. Because of Hawaii's quarantine laws, their record due dates were all wonky, so I opted for one appointment to streamline the process. Then again, I also had hoped the Mister could join me, but that would have been too perfect. If you know anything about my dynamic duo (see this post), you know this isn't an easy feat. Tripp would be content never leaving the house and Beesly's sunny disposition is dunzo once she gets close to the vet clinic.

In preparation for the appointment, I couldn't help but wonder what the Dog Whisperer would say. I hearkened back to one of Cesar's tips in which he advises his clients to pretend to be someone that emits confidence and grace. He says it's all in your state-of-mind. If you're anxious, your dog will be as well. I started thinking about figures I admire like Kate Middleton and Audrey Hepburn, but I felt more like Ouiser Boudreaux in Steel Magnolias. There's nothing graceful about me wrangling two large pups. When they get nervous or excited, they start to molt. It's ridiculous! I showed up at the clinic covered in hair and slobber, wrapped in leashes, and swinging my Baggu full of records and fecal samples. Needless to say, we showed up and made a memorable scene. We left with a hefty bill, a follow-up appointment, and a warning regarding Tripp's weight. This Golden doesn't understand the word "diet."

Suede Sidewalk Skimmers

In the last week, I wore these Crystal Blue Skimmers twice. They're comfy and fun. Why NOT wear them? Well, I'll tell you why... 

I'm standing in line at Subway, and I'm more than ready to pay for my Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki sandwich. It's been a long day, I'm famished, and I just want to get home to my dogs. A bronzed middle-aged man with long, golden locks, clad in Aloha wear and cargo shorts, walks into the restaurant. He's one of those guys who's just waiting to lock eyes with someone for an ounce of attention. I always attract people like this, and I just so happened to look up and make direct eye contact. Big mistake. Huge. In a loud and local dialect, he asks me: "Do you get paid to dress with that much personality? Seriously. Oh my gosh, look at your shoes. Are those magic pot shoes? Those things are psychedelic -- like some kind of magic pot test!" He motions the sandwich artist to peek over the glass barrier to take a gander at my flats. "Am I high or not? I dunno, just look at her shoes." At this point, I couldn't believe all of the hubbub surrounding my skimmers. I smiled, painfully, grabbed my sub and hightailed it out of that joint. 

If only this book really existed...

I think I'm going to give my blue suede shoes a rest this weekend.

Have a fabulous Friday!

Toodles,

ANF

P.S. If you have a free moment, read this post by Jess Constable. Be prepared for a meaningful lesson with a fresh perspective! "I want to be in the icing, but not of it."

Life's Little Details: Part II

Take a look at some of my favorite snapshots from the past few weeks...

We've made it a point to meet up for the occasional breakfast at SBUX lately. It's fun to share some time together before we part ways and head to work. / My parents sent the winged "N" to Flyboy. Apparently there are an excess of "A's" around the house. I wonder why?!?

I had every intention to stop by Safeway and pick up some fresh flowers for the past few weeks. Due to my absent-mindedness, I got creative this last week and cut some of the local blooms growing in our yard. I thought I'd get fancy with my arrangement, so I threw in a few sprigs of Rosemary. We won't discuss the trail of ants that appeared within an hour of displaying my creation. / After learning my lesson with the ants, I made a Safeway pit stop and picked up a Hyacinth plant instead. Their smell reminds me of spring and the Netherlands! I'm hoping the intense morning sunlight doesn't scorch the precious plant anytime soon.

I saw this image in the Mizzou alumni magazine and got thoroughly excited!!! Perhaps these snazzy plates will adorn our vehicles someday? / This picture was taken from my Eames rocker. I sat down after work to take a quick breather and these two friendly faces came to greet me and show some love.

Enough said. / These ballet flats are feminine and comfortable, and I want them in every color. While a bit on the pricey side, I've never had a pair of shoes that didn't require me breaking them in. I'm a convert with my fingers crossed, just hoping for a sale!

House Beautiful March 2012 Issue: There were so many stunning spreads, but this feature stole the show! It got me thinking about what it would be like to be responsible for a beautifully designed spread with such a bold impact like this one. / Although I've read this month's issue of Real Simple countless times, I can't help but leave it out on display. The cover was jus so fabulous and colorful!

I'm crazy cakes about J.Crew's fanfare print. It's such a fresh update to the 60s Palm Beach-inspired pattern, and an easy way to make a statement. / A few weeks ago, I had a chronic case of wanderlust. My inner-Francophile was appeased when I googled "macarons in Hawaii" and was pleasantly surprised by the results -- La Tour Cafe hit the spot!

List-making is so much sweeter with a cute notepad or notebook, and Rifle Paper Co. has this detail perfected. / The Black Flash needed to be washed and detailed after weeks of abandonment. I completed that task and moved on to running errands at Target. As I approached the Jetta in the parking lot, I couldn't help but exercise my best Tyga voice and recite lyrics to "Rack City" -- "Look at the paint on the car." If that doesn't show pride, I don't know what does.

Since things have picked up around Lil' Puna, I've been slacking on the snail mail front. There's really no excuse, but I figured these adorable note cards would inspire me to get out my pen, envelopes, and stamps. / He's quick to shy away from the camera, but I was bound and determined to get an updated picture of Tripp for the blog. Unfortunately, this image doesn't accurately show the personality that's evolved over the past year. With each day, I see a little more spunk and excitement from him. While Flyboy and Beesly share a special bond, Tripp is definitely a mama's boy.

And now it's clear which dog prefers the spotlight. Beesly is a total poser, and I absolutely adore that about her! It keeps me thoroughly entertained. Can you tell by her nautical-inspired scarf that she keeps up with the blog? / The local yacht club races sailboats in the bay area every Sunday. After almost a year of residing at Puna, it never grows old. I can waste hours just observing from our couch. Inevitably, I end up accurately predicting which sailboat will capsize first. I realize it's terrible that I get so much pleasure out of such unfortunate events, but it's fun to get out Flyboy's spotting scope and monitor the weekend bay activity. Uh-oh, I'm starting to sound like my dad! It's true, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.

I hope you had a fabulous weekend! Enjoy your Monday.

Toodles,

ANF