Goodbyes, Closest-cleaning and Runny Noses

Today we said goodbye to our beloved dog, Callie. I didn't expect to part with her so suddenly, but E suggested that we put her up for adoption now since we weren't sure how long it would take us to find her a good home. Bringing dogs into Germany is very difficult and with Kaiden and I hopping all over the US during Ethan's training, her situation just isn't ideal. To our surprise, several hours after posting the ad, we received about 50 emails asking about her. We selected a family that sounded like a perfect fit, and when they stepped into our living room to meet her I could tell right away she was in good hands. Their little boy in particular held her and loved on her in such a way that made me feel ok about parting. I'm really going to miss her. Although we only had her for a short period, she was by far my favorite dog we've owned. She did so well with Kaiden and was just so incredibly smart and well behaved for a puppy.

I've been doing more and more research about Germany. There is just so much literature out there and a ton of military wife blogs as well. In the back of my mind, I'm aware that there is a chance that something could happen and last minute we get re-directed to another base. I'm trying not to get my hopes up too much...but really, how could you not lol? One thing I'm running into trouble with is my business. Apparently, I will have to pay both US and German taxes depending on who my clientele is. The whole process seems confusing and on top of all the change we will be dealing with, I honestly don't feel like dealing with it. I think after I get my german down, then will I try to pursue any legalities pertaining to official business in that country. We're beginning to clear out items in our house since there is a weight limit on how much we can take overseas. Thankfully we are not hoarders, so I'm pretty sure most of our furniture will come along. There are just a lot of odds and ends things I will be selling...clothes...books...craft stuff...maybe even some photo equipment.

Kaiden hasn't been feeling well. He had a minor ear infection prior to Hawaii, and then the day before we left we hung out with our good friends who were getting over a cold. Go figure, Kaiden picked it up and has been runny nosed and coughing since. It happens but it's just frustrating when he acts bratty because of it. I know he doesn't feel well but I'm trying to figure out where to draw the line with that. I think taking him off his schedule and throwing in a 3 hour time difference messed up the good thing we had going too. Tonight I did try the whole Vicks on the feet and socks trick, so I'm curious to see if that helps. On a side note, this kid seriously has some strong arms. He chucks his toys and cups at me (because he thinks it is playing) and the other day it hit in me in the eye....it hurt sooooo badly. A few days before that it was the nose. The funny thing is...he can throw a perfect football throw and a perfect "hike". He's a born athlete.