Saying goodbye

Who knew "That Dog" would have pushed his way into so many hearts (even mine!)?

He was such a part of Ryan that the difference between man and dog was sometimes indiscernible.

No other Malinois was ever so devoted, driven, and loyal.

No guard dog so exuberantly welcoming.

No vacuum so thorough.

No babysitter so tolerant.

No friend so faithful and loving to the undeserving.

We said goodbye to Henry on Wednesday, Aug. 21st, but we don't know how to begin living without him.

Somewhere Between 2 Months and a Toddler

Sincerest apologies for the hiatus. No computer and limited internet all summer made posting difficult. 

Hans is encountering milestones slower than this crazy one,

but he is leisurely starting to crawl, talk, and stand up. 

He is still our Beloved Little Hans.

2 Months

"'Once upon a time,' said the Linnet, 'there was an honest little fellow named Hans.'

'Was he very distinguished?' asked the Water-rat.

'No,' answered the Linnet, 'I don't think he was distinguished at all, except for his kind heart, and his funny round good-humoured face.'" (Oscar Wilde, "The Devoted Friend")

Never has a child of mine attempted his first smile with such deliberation.

Never has any child been so coached on how to move lip muscles.

Never have our hearts been so captivated as by our beloved Little Hans.

One Month

(and a few days). I.e., Due Date!

We see his eyes more often these days, but increased alertness has not altered his need for snuggles.

Meanwhile, I have three kids who cannot wait to see their friends and babysitter in The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe next week!

Hans's First 2 Weeks

So we have another baby in the house.

Hold on, let's check the baby books. . . 

Lara 

Caleb

Lysbeth

 Yep, I'm pretty sure he belongs to us.

Lara's First Year

Happy Birthday 

to our dog-loving, puddle-jumping, 

risk-taking,

determined Lara!