.the replacements.

Since the passing of Tut earlier this week, his tank has stood empty and lonely. That is, until today, when Hubs surprised Ladybug (and me) with four little goldfish from Walmart. 

Each cost a whopping 28 cents and, though not as frilly as Tut, who was a fan tail goldfish, Ladybug thinks they are wonderful. She even pretends to feed them, something that is made cuter by the fact that she picked it up all on her own from watching us feed the fish.

You make be thinking that it is too soon to get replacement fish, but I think Tut would want us to move on and be happy with these little fish... as long as 28 cent fish will last.

.poor tut: we hardly knew ye.

Today, Ladybug's first "pet," her fish, Tut (yes, she picked that name) passed away. He lasted a whole 2 and half months, not bad for a wee goldfish. In memory of Tut, I would like to offer a few words...

Tut the fish: we found Tut at PetCo. one chill autumn evening and knew he was the fish for Ladybug. Small, cute, and only $2.95. He was a good fish, quiet and pleasant to watch as he ambled around his fluorescent pink tank. He was a happy and lively little guy.

Tut loved fish flakes and could often be found hanging around the glittery, purple tiara he was so fond of.

So, we bid thee farewell, sweet Tut. You will be missed.

.the joys of dog ownership.

There are many wonderful surprises to wake up to: breakfast in bed, newly fallen snow outside your window, a hug and kiss from the one you love. There are, however, some particularly nasty things to wake up to.

See exhibit A: one extremely poop covered dog.

Yes, that is what I got to start my morning off with today. Oakley apparently had either not been able to hold it or had felt sick during the night because he was covered from nose to tail with... well, you know. Not to mention his kennel, all of his toys, his food and water dish, and the living room wall had a nice coating as well.

So, I had the wonderful privilege of cleaning up his puppy mess for the better part of an hour and a half this morning. First, I had to lug everything, dog, kennel, and all, out into the very cold, snowy backyard. This was, in theory a good idea, except Oakley kept finding what I can only describe as "poop tidbits" to either sit in or lick up; the former causing more mess and the latter inspiring a shockingly strong gag reflex.

After much scrubbing, most of a can of lysol, and carrying a squirming 50 pound dog wrapped in a towel to the tub for a thorough "de-poop-ification," the job was finally done. Unfortunately, I was unable to salvage Oakleys toys and his food and water dishes. Other causalities included our outdoor rug which Oakley decided to stake out during our outside cleanup effort, causing irreversible poop-damage.

I know what you are thinking: "Gross! Why are you sharing this?!" Well, I will tell you why. I figure if I had to clean up the horror that was my living room all by my lonesome this morning, someone else should at least have to read about it. It's only fair. Really. It's only fair.

UPDATE: Just thought you would all want to know: Oakley had another accident this afternoon that had be cleaned up by yours truly. Pity me and my poor sick doggie!

Oakley: The Fuzziest Patridge

Well, consider us a little crazy. On top of having a little baby at home and Jenny and Milli staying with us for the time being, we went out an got a puppy. Yes, a puppy. A cute little poodle puppy we have named Oakley.

My mom has a poodle named Prince and his mama had a litter of puppies. We went to "look," but of course we bonded with one of the little guys and had to take him home.

He is such a sweet, smart puppy. He is great with kids and loves to snuggle. He learned sit, down, up (stand up), and stay within a few days of being with us. 

He is a great little addition to our family!