Villlhelllm: How do You even Spell It?

If Our House Could Talk: ’80s Relic to Chic Home Bar

Oh, the things I see and the tales I could tell! I’ve watched Damian’s eyes light up like the first day of spring as he navigates the digital marketplace, his excitement contagious even to my sturdy walls. Just this Saturday, after Damian and the dogs returned from their morning ritual, the house was abuzz with anticipation—not for the usual breakfast aromas, but for something entirely different. Damian, with his knack for spotting treasures amid the digital clutter, stumbled upon an oversized relic from the ’80s on Facebook Marketplace.

Katerina, ever the skeptic, couldn’t hide her disbelief. I could almost hear her thoughts echoing off my walls, questioning Damian’s judgment. Yet, there was a sparkle in Damian’s eye that told me he saw potential whereas others saw an outdated behemoth. Off he went, armed with the wisdom of his great friend Moe—never underestimate the power of having tools on hand. Indeed, the laughter from the seller’s son at the sight of Damian’s modest car did little to deter him. With a bit of dismantling and a double journey, Damian brought home a piece of history.

As they pondered the placement of their new acquisition, I couldn’t help but admire their determination. The piece was indeed a beast, a testament to the bygone era’s craftsmanship. Yet, as they maneuvered it into position, a transformation occurred. What was once a looming question mark began to take shape as the centerpiece of their home—a bar with extra seating, no less.

The irony was not lost on me. Here were Damian and Katerina, who had abstained from alcohol for months, dedicating their newfound treasure to housing spirits. Yet, it seemed fitting—a celebration of new beginnings, of Alyce’s arrival, and of their ability to see beauty and purpose in the most unexpected places.

This tale, like so many others within my walls, is a reminder. It speaks to the joys of discovery, the value of second chances, and the beauty of shared vision. Damian and Katerina may not always agree at first glance, but together, they create harmony from discord, beauty from the overlooked. And so, as I stand, a silent witness to their lives, I am reminded of the warmth and love that fills me, transforming me from mere structure to home.

Empowerment Through Preparedness: Our Journey with CPR Training

This week, I experienced a transformative CPR training session, possibly the most crucial lesson of my life. With our baby Alyce in our lives, Kat and I felt a strong responsibility to ensure we’re both equipped to handle potential emergencies. Kat took her training a few weeks back, and now, I’ve followed suit.

The course covered CPR and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for adults, children, and infants. It’s eye-opening to learn how these critical skills can make a life-or-death difference in emergencies such as cardiac arrest or choking.

Key takeaways from the training include the immediate steps to take in a cardiac emergency: assessing the situation, calling for help, and starting CPR to keep blood flowing. We also practiced using an AED, an essential tool that can help restore a normal heart rhythm before professional medical help arrives.

Choking emergencies was another crucial part of our learning, understanding the right techniques to assist choking individuals safely. This training wasn’t just about learning; it was about preparing to save lives.

This experience has reinforced the importance of being ready and able to act. Knowing that we’re now both trained to provide CPR gives us peace of mind, especially with Alyce growing and exploring more each day.

I encourage all of you to consider CPR training. It’s a skill you’ll hope never to need, but if the situation arises, it could be the most important thing you’ve ever learned.

We share our experience with you not just as a personal milestone, but as a heartfelt encouragement for each of you to consider learning CPR. It’s a skill that we hope you’ll never need to use, but one that could unequivocally make you someone’s hero in their moment of greatest need.

For more information, please visit Heartandstroke Canada’s Website

With deep gratitude for every heartbeat, stay safe and prepared.

Damian and Katerina

Woof Woof! 🐾

Bonjour les amis! It is I, Dapper, your charming French bulldog extraordinaire, here to regale you with the latest adventures from our luxurious canine kingdom. Today’s tale is narrated by yours truly, as my dear sister Boujee is currently indulging in a well-deserved nap. Ah, the life of a pampered pooch!

This week, napping has been our main course du jour, courtesy of the dreary weather. You see, Boujee has an aversion to rain that rivals even the most dramatic of divas. She despises it with a passion only matched by her love for fine cuisine (and believe me, she’s quite the connoisseur of treats!).

But fear not, dear readers, for amidst the rain clouds, there shines a beacon of joy in the form of our beloved baby Alyce. Oh, how my heart swells with affection for that tiny human! I find myself drawn to her like a moth to a flame, spending every waking moment ensuring her safety and happiness.

And let me tell you, keeping a watchful eye on Alyce is no easy task, especially when she’s in the company of her favorite toy, Tony La Giraffe. That plush giraffe holds a special place in her heart, and I must admit, I’ve grown rather fond of it myself.

Meanwhile, Boujee remains the undisputed #1 nurse in our household, constantly checking on Alyce with a level of devotion that would make Florence Nightingale proud. Truly, she is the creme de la creme of caretakers, with a bedside manner that’s second to none.

Our dads have trained us well, you see. We can nap in any circumstances, whether it’s the soothing hum of raindrops or the cacophony of drills as our dad works on his latest DIY project—have you seen the bar he’s been building? It’s positively magnificent!

Speaking of adventures, our Aunty came to visit us this week and we’ve heard whispers that Alyce has been going on car rides lately. Oh, how we long to join her on those excursions! The wind in our fur, the scent of the great outdoors—what joy it would bring! Here’s hoping that soon, we’ll be strolling alongside Alyce once more, soaking in the sights and sounds of the world beyond our cozy abode.

And so, dear friends, I bid you adieu for now. But fear not, for the adventures of Boujee and Dapper shall continue unabated, with each day bringing new surprises and delights. Until next time, au revoir! ❤️

Thank you to our dear Vilhelmians for following our adventures! Hit like and subscribe for more! Get ready for a wild ride! Hit that subscribe button to join our awesome Substack community! Vilheeeeeelm!