I didn't give up blogging...

 

🎆 I’m Back… and I’ve Got Fireworks

Let’s just say I didn’t mean to ghost my blog. One minute, I was knee-deep in red, white, and blue décor for our annual Fourth of July bash, guest list in one hand, a list of who's bringing what for food. 

The next minute, I was in line at the DMV🙄 , sweating bullets😥, clutching my paperwork like it was the last roll of toilet paper in 2020.

Yep, life happened. And it happened loudly, as always.

During party planning, and making sure the yard didn’t look like a jungle, I somehow scheduled my CDL knowledge test. (I am going to be a bus driver) I studied like it was finals week and I was chasing a scholarship...online quizzes, late nights, more Google searches and you tube videos on air brakes than I’d care to admit. I was soooo ready.

But the DMV said, “Not so fast.”

Apparently, knowing the answer to every question in the driver’s manual isn’t enough. I was missing my marriage certificate and a second piece of mail with my name on it. Because obviously, what says “responsible driver” more than a Comcast bill? What else do they want?! My firstborn!!!!???

So that’s where I’ve been. Taking time off from writing, not because I ran out of stories, but because I was busy living them. And now, I’m back; possibly with a vengeance, definitely with more blog posts brewing, and absolutely with a fresher perspective on patience, paperwork, and parties.

Let’s catch up soon. I’ve got tales, tangents, and maybe a few tips for surviving the DMV.

Surviving Hard-Headed, Old-School Men: A Guide to Sanity

 

How to Cope with the Ignorant

A special kind of endurance is required when living with men who operate on ancient logic, refuse to admit defeat, and still believe they know more than Google. If you’ve ever watched in horror as an old-school hardhead confidently bypasses every instruction manual, only to almost burn the house down, this one’s for you.

The Art of Stubbornness

The hard-headed man lives by a few sacred rules:

1. If it worked 40 years ago, it still works now. (Even if it objectively does not.)
2. Admitting fault is worse than defeat in battle. Even when caught red-handed.
3. If you ignore a problem long enough, it ceases to exist. Example: “That leak? It’s fine. Water finds its way.”

I’ve watched these men argue against basic physics, refuse doctor’s advice, and question why things need to be different. And yet, somehow, in their maddening logic, they do make some sense.

The Unsolicited Parenting Advice

If you’re raising kids around hard-headed men, congratulations, you now have an unsolicited co-parent.

They believe:

• Kids need more discipline, and by that, they mean the kind they got as children (which would now get someone arrested).
• “Back in my day, we didn’t have anxiety.” (Sure, Grandpa, you just repressed it until it manifested as back pain at 40.)
• Technology is ruining everything. (Yet they’re using it for sites that are frowned upon.)
• Kids are too soft and need to learn “the hard way.”

And somehow, despite your best efforts, they still manage to overrule you. Whether it’s sneaking candy or soda to your toddler five minutes before bedtime, rewriting your rules mid-sentence, or just shaking their head like you have no idea what you’re doing.

How to Survive It

1. Pretend they didn’t say that. (Selective hearing is a lifesaver.)
2. Redirect with a compliment. (“Wow, your parenting is SO effective")
3. Let them feel like they won. (They need this. Their ego depends on it.)
4. Hold your ground. Because at the end of the day, your kids are your responsibility, not a nostalgic experiment in tough love.
   
   

The Unexpected Wisdom

For all their stubborn ways, these men have a knack for being right about things they should absolutely be wrong about. Like knowing exactly what’s wrong with the car based on a single sound. Or being able to grill the perfect steak using nothing but instinct and outdated knowledge.

More importantly, their refusal to change often stems from something deeper, experience, pride, and the fear of irrelevance. They’ve lived through eras of self-sufficiency, trial and error, and moments where knowing your stuff actually mattered.

How We Survive It

1. Selective hearing👂 (again). (Pretending not to hear their nonsense works wonders.)
2. Reverse psychology.🧠 (Convince them an idea was theirs, and they’ll champion it immediately.)
3. Let them win sometimes. 🏆(It costs you nothing to nod along when they insist “That’s not how you clean a stove,” even though it is.)
4. Find the humor. 😂At some point, you have to laugh. (Until it becomes too much)

Because in the end, these men, despite their maddening ways, are part of what keeps life interesting. Their old-school grit, their love buried beneath their resistance, and their ability to survive despite their own habits make them unforgettable.

What’s the funniest hard-headed moment you’ve ever witnessed?

Drop it below, I bet you’ve got some good ones.⬇️

Turns Out, I’m Not Italian. But Honestly, That’s the Least of My Chaos...

 

Intro

Look, if there’s one thing I’ve learned about family, it’s that nothing ever goes the way you think it will.

For years, I confidently believed I was Italian. The traditions, the food, the slightly dramatic hand gestures. 🤌Then one day, I found out my mom was adopted, and BAM!! I was not Italian anymore. 

Turns out, identity is weird.

Turns out, family is even weirder.

I didn’t meet my dad until I was 25, so growing up, I never had the full picture of where I came from. And honestly? I’m still figuring it out.

But Forget Identity.....Let’s Talk About Survival Mode

At 31, I’m a stay-at-home mom managing two kids, full-time caregiving for my grandfather-in-law, and a husband who can’t resist adding to our household zoo—leaving me in charge of an ever-expanding parade of pets.

I swear, every time I turn around, there’s a new creature added to the family. He works full-time to provide for us, which means while he’s off being a responsible adult, I’m over here wrangling kids and feeding a small zoo.

At this point, I’ve accepted my fate. I am not just a mom. I am an unpaid caregiver, short-order cook, and now, a reluctant zookeeper.

Some days, I’m crushing it like a superhero. Other days, I’m sitting in my car, on the verge of tears, because the chicken’s still frozen, and dinner has officially become a mystery.

Caregiving teaches you patience (sometimes). It teaches you adaptability (always). It teaches you that love doesn’t look like fancy speeches. It looks like constant appointment reminders, making sure meds are given, and figuring out why the dog is suddenly limping,  why the cat started puking this week, or wondering if the newest addition (baby squirrel) will survive, oh and why there is a bat in my cats mouth, INSIDE THE HOUSE!

New "Rehabber"

BAT- that was safely released

It’s messy, exhausting, and deeply meaningful.

So, What Do I Do With All This?

I started writing.

I write about the traditions I’m holding onto. The ones that actually matter. I write about the ones I’ve let go of because, honestly, some of them were just stressful for no reason. I write about parenting, marriage, family, and the absolutely unhinged rollercoaster that is adulthood.

Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that family isn’t about who you came from, it’s about who shows up.

That’s the legacy I’m building. The one my kids will carry forward, the one that proves love isn’t about labels, heritage, or perfection. It’s about showing up, in whatever form that takes.

So, welcome to my corner of the internet, where I overshare, embrace the chaos, and attempt to keep my household functioning while living among a growing number of furry, feathered, and (probably someday) scaly housemates. 

The Most Annoying Cleaning Problems: How to Beat Them Like a Pro

 

The Most Annoying Cleaning Problems

🧽🫧 Solved!🧽🫧

We’ve all been there....standing in front of a stubborn stain, mystery odor, or impossible mess, wondering WHY cleaning has to be this hard. Some problems seem like they’re mocking us, refusing to budge no matter how much we scrub, soak, or spray.

But here’s the secret🤫: Most annoying cleaning problems, have a surprisingly simple fix, you just need the right trick up your sleeve. As someone who’s been in the cleaning industry for over 10 years, I’ve seen (and conquered) almost every mess imaginable. 

So, if you’ve ever thought, “There has to be an easier way!” You’re absolutely right.✔️

Let’s dive into the worst cleaning struggles and the game-changing hacks to solve them once and for all!

1. The Mystery Odor That Won’t Go Away

You’ve scrubbed, sprayed, and aired things out, but somehow… it still smells weird.

Fix: Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, couches, and mattresses, let it sit for an hour, then vacuum. For fridge odors, place a bowl of coffee grounds or activated charcoal inside overnight—it absorbs smells faster than baking soda!

2. Hard Water Stains That Laugh at Your Cleaning Efforts

Those stubborn white marks on faucets and shower doors? Infuriating.

Fix: Rub a cut lemon directly on the spots, let the juice sit, then rinse. Citric acid breaks down mineral buildup better than most store-bought sprays. Need more power? Mix white vinegar with baking soda and let it foam before wiping clean.

3. The Never-Ending Battle Against Pet Hair

No matter how much you sweep, vacuum, or lint-roll, the fur keeps coming back.

Fix: Lightly dampen a rubber glove, then run it over furniture—it grabs hair like magic! For carpets, sprinkle a little fabric softener diluted in water, let it dry, and vacuum—it loosens embedded fur for easier cleanup, and it smells amazing!

4. Grease Stains That Just… Won’t… Budge

From kitchen cabinets to clothes, grease has a grip like no other.

Fix: On surfaces, rub a drop of dish soap or my new favorite, Dawn Power Wash, onto the grease and let it sit before wiping. For clothes, sprinkle chalk or cornstarch on the stain before washing; it absorbs oil like a sponge.

5. The Toilet Bowl That Never Looks Fully Clean

Hard water, hidden grime, or just bad luck—it seems permanently dull.

Fix: Pour a can of cola into the bowl, let it sit for an hour, then scrub. The acid in soda helps break down stains surprisingly well! If you have those rusty iron stains, use IRONOUT. When I discovered iron out, I was soaking the tub, washer, dishwasher, dishes, clothes, toilet bowl, just about everything with an iron stain on it. The stains DISAPPEARED within seconds!!!!! It comes in a spray or powder form. But I found it was more bang for your buck to get the powder.

Click here to buy on amazon

6. Foggy Mirrors That Never Stay Clear

You clean them, but five minutes later, they look terrible again.

Fix: Rub shaving cream onto the mirror, wipe it off—this prevents fogging for a few weeks.

Final Thoughts💭

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a daily battle. Sometimes, the simplest household items can solve the most frustrating problems. With over 10 years in the cleaning industry, I’ve learned that creative solutions are often the best solutions.

What’s the one cleaning problem that drives you crazy?

Let’s tackle it together!

Embracing Family, Acceptance, and the Power of Connection

Background

Growing up, I never knew my father, and I had little involvement with my paternal grandparents throughout my childhood. My mom kept in touch with my grandparents, and they always showed up for my sister and me, especially on birthdays, bringing a sense of connection. I carried curiosity about them, eager to understand where I came from, even as unanswered questions lingered.

As an adult, I’ve started uncovering the truths behind my childhood, choosing to reconnect with my father, and now exploring the possibility of meeting my half-siblings. Though I have moments of doubt, I’m staying optimistic and hopeful. Recently, I learned of my grandmother’s declining health and her transition to hospice. my husband has been nothing but supportive, so we gathered the kids and went on a short trip to their home in the next town over. 

A Fulfilling Visit That Changed Everything

I stepped through the door, greeted by the warmth of my paternal grandparents' home. Thanks to my mother and other grandmothers’ efforts to keep our family connected over the years, we had many heartfelt visits at my childhood home. But this visit felt different. My grandmother, now in hospice care, was declining quickly, and I knew that these moments together were fleeting.

Grandpa

My grandfather, the person I named my son after, is the kind of person who leaves a lasting impression with his quick wit and charm. He’s a natural talker, able to lighten any room with his humor and heartfelt conversations. Faithful and devoted, he has always been a pillar of strength for his family, embodying hard work and resilience in everything he does. Whether tending to his responsibilities or caring for my grandmother with unmatched dedication, he continues to inspire me with his steadfast love and unwavering commitment to those he holds dear.

Devoted Love💘

I arrived with a small stack of photos in hand, unsure of how the visit would unfold. My grandfather, always steady, humorous, and strong, had been watching over my grandmother with unwavering devotion as she navigated these final stages of life. But the moment he saw the pictures, his entire face lit up—eyes sparkling, posture shifting as if those memories breathed new life into him.

One photo stood out. An 8x10 of him and Grandma dancing at my wedding, frozen in a moment of pure joy and love. He held it with the kind of reverence reserved for treasures, his fingers tracing the edges as if he could step back into that day.

They have been madly in love for over fifty years—passionately, fiercely, in a way that defies time. And even now, as Grandma grows frail, he cares for her with the same tenderness as ever. Watching him ensure her comfort, anticipate her needs before she even speaks, and love her through every stage has been nothing short of inspiring.

I thought, what a powerful reminder of love’s unwavering strength—the way it evolves, adapts, and remains constant even through life’s most difficult transitions. It reshaped my perspective on family, devotion, and the importance of being present for the people who matter most, no matter the stage of life. It also connected deeply to something I’ve written about before—how my husband’s family shares the same commitment to showing up, inspiring me to be more intentional in how I do the same. related post 🠊 https://navigatinglifewithruthie.blogspot.com/2025/04/caring-for-grandpa-navigating-regret.html 

Grandma 💕

As I sat beside her, holding her fragile hand, memories of birthdays, holidays, and childhood laughter flooded back. This was the woman who had always been there at my Birthday parties, even as my relationship with my father remained uncertain. She embodies so much of what I cherish about family. She has always been such a beautiful woman, both inside and out—her kindness and warmth radiate in everything she does. She has this wonderful sense of humor and an easygoing, quiet nature, always willing to listen and effortlessly going along with whatever my grandfather says. I found it particularly funny when she would roll her eyes at the stories my grandfather would tell at our family dinners. 😂 She’s also creative and artsy, a quality I see reflected in myself, which makes me feel even more connected to her. Even as she grows frail, watching her in these moments reminds me of the incredible legacy of love, laughter, and creativity she'll be leaving behind.

Dad

And then, there was my father—someone I had only met in 2019. He has faced his own internal battles, ones that have shaped his presence in my life in profound ways. His journey has been complicated, filled with highs and lows, moments of clarity and others clouded by struggle. Yet here he was, sharing space with us, meeting Elizabeth for the first time. 

My father is an intelligent man with a gift for conversation and a strong work ethic. He has the ability to excel in his work, earning well and showcasing his skills, but he has faced struggles within himself that have created barriers along the way. Despite his hard work and potential, the setbacks he’s experienced have made it difficult for him to get ahead. Yet, his resilience and drive continue to shine through, and I’ve come to appreciate the layers of complexity that make him who he is.

Conclusion

This was more than just a visit—it was a moment of acceptance, a reminder that family doesn’t always fit into perfect molds, but it can still offer love, connection, and meaning in ways we never imagined, IF you let it.

Can you relate? Please tell me your story!

Connecting the Dots: ADHD in Our Family

 

A Journey of Discovery and Understanding

It all started when my son (7) began having trouble in school. His teachers mentioned struggles with focus, impulsivity, and staying on track—all signs that something deeper might be at play. Hearing this was difficult, but it pushed me to start researching ADHD so I could better understand his needs. The more I learned, the more pieces began to fall into place—not just for my son, but for my marriage as well.

 I started noticing patterns in my husband’s behavior that aligned with what I was discovering about ADHD. The same struggles I saw in my son—the difficulty focusing, losing track of time, and impulsivity—reflected in many of the arguments my husband and I had over the years. The little misunderstandings, the frustrations, the moments where we seemed to speak different languages—all suddenly made more sense.

Exploring Non-Medication Solutions Together

We were faced with a decision many parents struggle with—whether or not to introduce medication at such a young age. My husband, having grown up on ADHD medications himself, shared his experiences and concerns. He felt they had a lasting impact on his brain development and was adamant about exploring other approaches for our son.

This led us down the path of seeking holistic solutions. We are currently trying "Magnesium Threonate Gummies" at night. Magnesium is an essential nutrient, improving sleep, relieving stress and muscles, keeping heart and nerve health, preventing leg cramps, and keeping bone health (maintains calcium and magnesium balance). Magnesium threonate it's the best of all magnesium supplements for the brain. Here's the link to the ones we are switching to because the other brand we used to buy doesn't sell them on Amazon anymore https://amzn.to/42x7e3O

Magnesium L-Threonate Increases Calm, Sleep, Focus, Memory, and Cognitive Function. The last brand that we tried worked well, and it has made a difference in our sons behavior.

Small Changes, Big Differences

Simple things like consistent schedules, creating calming environments, and understanding  triggers have made a world of difference.

One of the biggest revelations in our ADHD journey has been how much diet plays a role. I started reading about how certain food additives—like artificial dyes and excess sugar—can impact focus, mood, and behavior. At first, it felt overwhelming to think about changing our family’s eating habits, but we knew it was worth a shot. Here is an interesting article about how Red 40 affects ADHD https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/red-dye-40-adhd#sugar-food-dyes-and-adhd

Gradually, we cut out artificial dyes and reduced sugary snacks, and the results were undeniable. My son’s ability to focus improved, and we noticed fewer emotional outbursts. 

It wasn’t just about eliminating things—it was about replacing them with better options. Fresh fruits, whole grains, and homemade snacks. It’s been amazing to see how those changes have benefited not just my son, but all of us as a family.

Engaging in physical activity also plays an essential role in managing ADHD symptoms, according to this article, https://www.berkeleypsychiatrists.co.uk/blog/exercise-and-adhd. It encourages the release of dopamine, enhances executive function, and elevates overall mood and well-being. Exercise can also improve focus, increase attention, and help minimize impulsive behaviors. 

Spring has finally sprung, making it easier to get the kids outside. So we have been making sure the kids spend about an hour running around outside each evening. His teacher also shared with me that he allows our son to stand at his desk instead of sitting or gives him small tasks to run errands, so he can take a few minutes to walk and move around.

These small dietary shifts, staying connected with this teacher, along with our holistic approach to managing ADHD, have proven that sometimes the simplest changes can have the biggest impact.

Knowledge is Power

Researching ADHD became a lifeline, not just to help my son thrive in school, but to navigate the dynamics at home. I wanted answers—not to “fix” anyone, but to learn how to manage and react in a way that brought clarity and peace.

My husband has chosen to remain unmedicated as well, drawing on his own strategies to manage the challenges of ADHD in adulthood. While it’s not always an easy road, his determination to approach life naturally has been inspiring.

 I’ve learned the importance of patience, communication, and building strategies that work for both my son and husband. Whether it’s creating routines, offering gentle reminders, or finding humor in the chaos. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been eye-opening. Along the way, I’ve discovered that ADHD doesn’t define us—it’s just one part of who we are. And in embracing that, I’ve come to appreciate the strengths and unique perspectives that ADHD brings into our lives.

 Have you navigated similar decisions or found holistic approaches that worked for your family? 

I’d love to hear your thoughts, experiences, or even questions—let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below!🠟

From Then to Now: My Journey Through Life and Family

 Childhood: The Foundation

Picture of me as a happy baby

I grew up in the heart of New England, where life moved at a comfortable pace and everyone knew your name. It was the kind of place where the air smelled like freshly cut grass in summer, and woodsmoke in winter. The streets were lined with historic colonial houses, each with its own story. 

When I was a kid, I was the quiet one, always set back a bit, observing the world around me more than stepping into its spotlight. I spent a lot of time in my own head, questioning myself—wondering if I was saying the right things or doing the right things. While other kids might have jumped headfirst into the action, I was the one watching from the edges, taking it all in, and thinking ten steps ahead.

One of my favorite childhood memories was the carefree days in our big yard—our own mini racetrack since the busy road meant no riding out front. The best part was the hills. My sister, my cousins, and I raced down them, legs flying, laughter echoing, feeling invincible despite the inevitable grass stains and scraped knees.

That yard wasn’t just a space—it was our world. Homemade obstacle courses, games with rules only we understood—it was a place where adventure thrived, proving that joy exists right where we are, even with limitations.

Young Adulthood, Milestones and Challenges: Becoming Who I Am Now

My teenage years were a mix of awkward moments, contemplation, and trying to figure out where I fit in the world.

One of the most significant milestones was my first job. My first job wasn’t glamorous, but at 13, it felt like my first real step into responsibility. A couple from church hired me to clean their condo—a simple enough task, I thought. I scrubbed countertops, vacuumed carpets, and did my best to make everything shine. But there was one stubborn enemy I couldn’t defeat: the rust ring in the bathtub. Week after week, I tried everything—scrubbing, soaking, even pleading with it to disappear—but that rust ring held its ground. And then, one day, I got the news: I was fired. Over a bathtub. At 13 years old, the sting was sharp, a mix of humiliation and confusion. I had barely started learning about the working world, and already, I felt like I had failed. Looking back now, I realize that rust ring wasn’t just a stain on porcelain—it was an early lesson in ✨resilience✨.

What were some other childhood challenges I faced? Growing up in a small-town Catholic school came with its challenges. The plaid skirts and button-down shirts made us stand out, and the teasing from public school kids was mostly harmless—until it wasn’t. It taught me early on about differences, fitting in, and the quiet ways people judge each other.

Not knowing my father was another challenge, a lingering question in my life. (we can talk more about this later) I often wondered what it would be like to know his voice, his laugh, or how he saw the world. But his absence also taught me something valuable—family isn’t just about biology, but about the people who show up and stay.

An extra special person in my life is my Noni(grandmother)—the heart of our family who continues to keep us all connected. Her home is filled with laughter, love, and the kind of warmth that makes everyone feel like they belong. As I’ve grown, I’ve found my own ways to carry on what she’s started—keeping family traditions alive and staying close. Whether it’s through calls, shared meals, or hosting gatherings, these simple moments remind me just how special family bonds are.

Noni’s ability to bring people together isn't just about physical space—it is about creating a feeling, a connection, a sense of belonging. That’s something I want to keep alive for generations to come. Through it all, I hold onto the values that matter most: family, authenticity, and humor. They guide me every step of the way, shaping the story I continue to write.✍️

Family and Life Today

These days, life is a beautiful mix of chaos, laughter, and connection. My world revolves around family—the same sense of togetherness that my Noni instills in all of us.  As much as she kept us close, growing up meant watching my cousins—my childhood partners in adventure—start to veer off into their own directions. The bike races, beach trips, and late-night laughs faded as we got older and life took us down different paths. Unfortunately, we lost the closeness we once had, but in small ways, we’ve managed to hold on. Social media has become our window into each other’s lives—a place to share baby pictures, funny memes, and occasional updates that remind me of the roots we all share.

Weaving that same sense of togetherness into my husband’s family has been a joy. Over the years, I’ve grown so close to them, building bonds that feel just as strong and meaningful as the ones I grew up with. And now, we’ve created a tradition that brings both sides of the family together—our big Fourth of July picnic/Noni's Birthday. Now that we have Grandpa Shackway in our lives, we also celebrate his birthday since it's in July as well. It’s a day filled with laughter, water balloons, cornhole, and plenty of food, where generations, and friends mingle and memories are made. Watching everyone come together—sharing stories, enjoying each other's company.

 Between the traditions I’ve carried forward and the new connections we’ve built, I’m reminded every day of how special family truly is. It’s not always perfect, but that’s what makes it so wonderfully real.💓

Lessons and Takeaways: What I've Learned

I've learned that resilience comes in many forms. My mother is the perfect example—an incredibly strong woman who raised two girls on her own, navigating the weight of responsibility with grace and determination. 

Mom and I

She shows me what it means to push forward, to stand tall in the face of obstacles, and to create a loving home, despite the challenges. But the true depth of her strength didn’t fully hit me until I became a mother myself. Suddenly, I understood the sacrifice, the constant balancing act, and the unwavering love it takes to raise children. The things I once took for granted became clear, and I found a new appreciation for all she carries without complaint.

Reflecting on everything—childhood adventures, family traditions, challenges, and the connections that evolve over time—I’ve learned that family is never just about proximity. It’s about the effort to stay connected, the traditions that keep us rooted, and the love that we choose to carry forward.

💗I would love to hear from you!💗

 I’d love to hear from you. What moments from your own life resonate with the stories I’ve shared? Are there traditions you’ve carried forward, challenges you’ve learned from, or special people who’ve shaped your path?

 Share your thoughts, memories, or lessons—you never know who might find inspiration in your words. After all, storytelling has a way of connecting us, reminding us of the values and bonds that make life truly meaningful.

Let’s keep the conversation going—your voice is an important part of the story we’re building together!

Feathers, Fur, and Frenzy: Life with Our Pets

Luna(tic)😂

In our multi-generational household, the chaos isn’t just limited to humans....it extends to our array of furry and feathered friends. From a ball-chasing dog and sassy cats to chickens and turkeys with personalities as big as their flocks. They’ve made life endlessly entertaining (and occasionally head-scratching). Here’s how they keep us laughing, loving, and guessing daily.

Meet the Crew:

• Diesel our 8 year old German Shepherd: The floor-cleaning, ball chasing, big goofball enthusiast and kids’ loyal sidekick.

                                 The Crazy Cat Crew 

Cutie and Reese

Luna (crazy eyes)

Maggie

  The Flock

Our little backyard flock of 10 birds (chickens and turkeys) is quite the crew, full of characters. Take Kevin, for example—a Royal Palm turkey who turned out to be a girl. But by the time we figured that out, she already knew her name, so Kevin she stayed!

It all started back in 2020 with our first flock, but only three of the originals are still with us: Bertha, Henrietta, and Chickaletta. Since then, we’ve added three newer hens—Brownie, Cheryl Crow, and Raven—who’ve settled in nicely.

Then there’s the latest addition, thanks to my husband: three heritage turkeys. And let’s just say the flock hasn’t exactly rolled out the welcome mat for them. They’re the unruly troublemakers of the bunch, and poor Kevin has been noticeably irritated ever since they arrived.

Still, they all manage to coexist... most of the time. Honestly, I can’t blame them.....living with others is no picnic! 

Some of the Flock:

Henrietta

Kevin

Brownie

one of the three amigas

Kevin and our son

one of the amigas trying to leave with us00

Feathered Frenzy:

As Kevin matures, she’s embraced her role as the undisputed queen of the flock. With a no-tolerance attitude toward the newcomers, she ensures everyone knows their place—and it’s definitely below her on the pecking order. She commands respect, and if anyone dares step out of line, Kevin is quick to remind them who runs the backyard kingdom.

 

Henrietta stands out as the comeback queen. A couple of years ago, she suffered a traumatic leg break that had us worried if she'd ever bounce back. But with time, care, and her incredible determination, Henrietta is now thriving and strutting her stuff better than ever. She’s a true testament to resilience—and proof that even when life hands you challenges, you can come back stronger (and fluffier). Have you ever seen a chicken leg X-ray? 

BROKEN LEG

GOOD LEG

💛 The Love They Bring💛

Our pets certainly bring their fair share of chaos, they also fill our home with an incredible amount of love. Kevin, our self-declared queen, has a soft side beneath her no-nonsense demeanor—she’ll happily settle in for a cuddle or stretch out her wings for an affectionate pat. Henrietta’s resilience and gentle spirit inspire everyone, reminding us of the strength that comes from overcoming challenges.

Even the mischievous Three Amigas have their moments of charm, like when they squawk the second you walk out of the house. And there’s something magical about the quiet companionship of Reese curled up in Grandpa’s lap or Diesel eagerly waiting to play fetch with anyone willing to throw a ball.

Each pet, whether furry or feathered, brings a unique kind of joy to our family. Their quirky personalities and affection create countless moments of laughter and connection, showing us the true meaning of unconditional love.💓

 Pet Care Essentials:

• 
  Temptations Treats—The Ultimate Cat Whisperer: If your indoor cat pulls a Houdini and escapes
  
  
  outside, don’t panic—just grab your Temptations, give the bag or container a shake, and watch them come running like it’s the feline Olympics. It’s no wonder these treats are an Amazon #1 best-seller. With four cats in our house absolutely obsessed, it’s safe to say these little snacks are a lifesaver for cat owners everywhere. https://amzn.to/4hZDO40

• Manna Pro Oyster Shells:  If you have laying hens, oyster shells are essential. These calcium-rich supplements not only promote strong eggshell production but also aid digestion, helping your hens stay healthy and thrive. It’s a small investment for happy, productive chickens—and a steady supply of eggs! link🠚 https://amzn.to/44c6Ud5

  

• POOPH® Pet Odor Eliminator Spray:

  Say goodbye to stubborn pet odors with POOPH® Pet Odor Eliminator Spray. This patented formula works on a molecular level to completely eliminate odors—no masking, no added fragrances, just pure freshness. With absolutely no scent left behind, it’s perfect for maintaining a clean, odor-free home without overwhelming your senses. Safe for pets, people, and the planet, this spray is a must-have for tackling litter box smells, accidents, and more.https://amzn.to/3FQQT2q

Our pets are an irreplaceable part of our family. They bring laughter, lessons, and the kind of charm that only a cat, a dog, a chicken, or a turkey can provide. Life wouldn’t be the same without them, and maybe that’s why we cherish the delightful frenzy they bring. Got a quirky pet or a product that’s been a lifesaver for you? 

Share in the comments....I’d love to hear your stories and see your pets!