Admittedly I have put off writing this month’s life update because it just has not been a great month. A few weeks ago, I went to Philly to visit my best friend and, on my last evening there, Noodle got really sick. Andy was at home with him and had to rush him to the vet, only to find out that his heart was basically giving out. So, from afar, we made the decision to let him pass with dignity and say goodbye. That was 26 days ago and every day has, quite frankly, sucked since then. I miss my tiny bff so badly that it physically hurts. It’s hard to be chipper without those feelings looming over me. As much as October has been spent grieving, there were still some highlights. Here’s a recap of the month.
Monthly Life Update: October 2022
The Tiny Zoo
Noodle’s passing has made me appreciate our remaining animals even more. It’s clear that everyone (except for maybe the chickens) misses him which makes it even harder. Diamond definitely needs a companion and his absence is really affecting her a lot. These days you can find me curled up under a blanket with Diamond and a book or working on a puzzle as I try to give her the attention she’s craving.
The Cabin
We are officially in the full swing of late fall and early winter. Our first storm is rolling through this week, meaning a lot of rain in our valley and a lot of snow up at elevation. It’s nice to see a dusting of snow on the hills, especially after the past few weeks when it was incredibly smoky out here.
My dad came out from the east coast to visit and help us prep for winter, too. Even though he’s in his 60s, he is still very much a go-getter! And kept Sean and me on our toes. He split tons of firewood, made kindling and even helped us get the wood stove ready for winter. It was awesome having him out here, especially since it’s his first time seeing the cabin.
My Health
Aside from a feeling of constant breathlessness thanks to the smokiness, my health has been fine this month. I’m grateful for the rain to knock all the crap out of the air so it’s easier for me to breathe — and so I can finally go outside again. I was getting a bit stir crazy.
Business + My Blog
I’m definitely ramping up on holiday content and gift ideas, so be sure to keep your eyes out for that! This time of year is always really hectic on social media, especially with brands wanting to partner. I’m forever grateful for this time of year actually because it is when my business makes most of it’s income! That being said, I appreciate all of the support you can offer on anything sponsored you may see on the blog or my social media.
I’ve also been doing lots of behind-the-scenes work for a company I love to help them build out their Pinterest account. More and more I am finding satisfaction in the process of creating content for brands other than my own. It’s like flexing a muscle that hasn’t been used in a while and is a very welcome challenge.
Us
Aside from being overwhelmed with grief, we’re doing ok. It’s just really hard right now. We both miss Noodle so much and feel his absence even more when we’re together. It’s especially hard for us to not have any wiener dogs left… after all, they were a big part of why and how we connected all those years ago. But how do you know when it’s the right time to bring in another dog? How do you know when you’re ready? These are some of the questions we’ve been mulling over, but with very few decisions actually made. When the time is right, it will be right… or at least that’s the platitude we keep coming back to.
ICYMI here’s what I shared on the blog this month:
5 Soup Recipes That I Make *Every* Fall and Winter
Plaid Decor to Add Cozy Cabin Vibes To Your Home
Our TV Room Makeover Reveal + Sources
Thanksgiving Table Setting Inspiration: 3 Looks To Try This Year
So that’s a snapshot of what life’s been like for us in the month of October. As always, thank you so much for following along on our journey and being so wonderfully supportive of everything I share here and on social media. We especially appreciate everyone who’s reached out about Noodle’s passing — it really does mean a lot.
