The Journal

July 5, 2026

Home Alone Havoc When Dogs Decks and Dispatch Collide

A heatwave, a dog emergency, a deck in crisis, and a toddler who runs the kitchen. The House reports from a very chaotic week.

June 21, 2026

Dad's Q2 Performance: Graded by Tiny Hands & Paws

Ever wonder how dads get rated? This Father's Day, enjoy a hilarious "performance review" for Dad from his family, alongside a truly heartwarming message for all fathers.

June 14, 2026

The Universe's Script Embracing Change and Elevating Your Story

Ever feel the universe has your back? This week, a forgotten jersey leads to a magical hug, plus how one mom's story transforms the medtech industry.

May 31, 2026

Outsmarting shady contractors with AI and surviving when your brain leaves

From outsmarting HVAC scams with AI to managing family chaos with custom apps, discover how tech can augment your biggest life decisions. Let’s dive in!

May 31, 2026

Solo Dad Ops Juggling Toddlers Tech and Total Home Takeovers

This week, join me on a wild ride of solo dada duty, managing a tiny human chaos agent and two dogs. Discover the joys of routines, small moments, and radical responsibility!

May 17, 2026

Turning Playful Meme Tagging into Bold Travel Plans and Sincere Commitments

Uncover the cultural nuances of casual commitments in North America versus Eastern Europe in this engaging newsletter excerpt. #Communication #Accountability

May 17, 2026

Stop capturing the moment and start living it to reclaim your

Are we so busy capturing life that we’re missing it? Explore the true meaning of the cherry blossom and the beauty of being present in a digital world.

May 10, 2026

Habit stacking to reclaim your weekend and why mom friends are

From habit stacking and early morning wins to navigating the mental load of motherhood, join us as we find balance and connection in the everyday chaos.

May 3, 2026

Mastering the Art of Truly Seeing to Discover the Extraordinary Magic

Stop scanning and start seeing. Discover how intentional attention transforms small, quiet moments into genuine happiness. Learn the art of truly noticing.

April 26, 2026

Ten Thousand Butterflies One Toddler and the Purest Reaction Ever Seen

Join Damian and Katerina at the Butterfly Conservatory. Witness the 'Butter, butterflies' moment and find out why the best family memories land right on you.

April 12, 2026

Exploring wild family rituals and the digital traditions that keep us

From Jamaican spiced buns to Czech customs, we explore how blending diverse traditions and new rituals builds a legacy of memories that feel like home.

March 29, 2026

Reconnecting through rituals and surviving domestic life under pet management

Explore the power of simple traditions and perspective. From 9 PM rituals to a pet’s-eye view of home, find joy in the small moments that keep us connected.

March 23, 2026

Fire yourself with AI agents and reclaim your life for the

From baking traditions to AI agents, discover how to automate the mundane and reclaim your time for what truly matters. Let’s live in the moment, not for it.

March 22, 2026

Free Toronto parking secrets and why you should never be the

From Toronto parking wins to the "multiplier" mindset, learn how to turn small tools into big opportunities. Don’t just be the mouse—build life on your terms!

March 15, 2026

Decoding invisible cultural rules and surviving the psychological warfare of a

Master cross-cultural communication and survive the "False Spring." This newsletter explores the invisible cultural rules and expectations that shape our lives.

March 8, 2026

Slowing Down to Spot Secrets and Navigate Seasonal Shifts

Stop living on autopilot. This week, we explore the hidden 'defaults' in our lives—from dental flavors to why an 8-foot Santa is still on the lawn in March.

March 1, 2026

Bringing Home Soulful Wisdom and Finding the Gift in Every Closed

Embark on a journey of reflection and resilience with our latest newsletter content. Unpack the hidden treasures of travel and embrace the power of redirection in shaping our destinies. #Travel #Redirection #Resilience

February 22, 2026

How To [vil-helm] #162: 02-22-2026

We loved Japan. We really did. The order. The people. The quiet respect that somehow makes everything feel calmer and more intentional. The food that tastes like it was prepared by someone who truly cares about your emotional well-being. But then… we also loved Disneyland Sea. Wh

February 1, 2026

Confirming Japan's hype and kicking off our Bangkok adventure

We just landed in Bangkok! Before our Thailand adventure begins, here’s a look back at our unforgettable final week exploring Japan.

January 25, 2026

Lessons in Patience, Planes, and Parenting in Japan

We traded -17°C Toronto for 9°C Japan. After a 20-hour travel marathon that tested our parental sanity, we’ve landed in a place where the snacks are crunchy, the service is legendary, and the toilet seats are warmer than a Canadian summer.

January 1, 2026

How To [vil-helm] #153: 01-02-2026 - Happy New Year!

The New Year always arrives with a strange mix of emotions. There’s excitement, of course—but also relief, reflection, and a quiet exhaustion from everything the year before carried with it. This past year shaped us in ways we didn’t expect. It asked for patience when we were alr

November 24, 2025

How To [vil-helm] #145: 11-23-2025 Experience winter's heartwarming joy, festive journeys, and sweet tiny wonders

As the holiday season truly gets into full swing, we've found ourselves discovering new layers of joy and meaning in the annual buildup to Christmas. From magical train rides and charming new traditions to a toddler's most anticipated birthday (and cake!) and even our pets' snowy

November 16, 2025

How To [vil-helm] #144: 11-16-2025 Adventures in growth, wisdom in wealth, and the joy of family

Welcome to our latest update, where joy and wisdom intertwine! Join us as Alyce shares her delightful daycare triumphs and exciting birthday plans, with Boujee and Dapper offering their hilariously candid doggy perspective on family life. Then, transition to 'Investment Sundays'

November 10, 2025

How To [vil-helm] #143: 11-09-2025 Honoring Our Caregiving Hero, Embracing the Promise of New Horizons

This week brings a bittersweet milestone as we bid a heartfelt farewell to our truly incredible clinical dietitian, JB, who has been nothing short of a hero in Alyce's journey. Her departure is a powerful testament to Alyce's remarkable progress, signifying a huge step forward an

November 4, 2025

How To [vil-helm] #142: 11-09-2025 - Jays' World Series Heartbreak & Hope

What an incredible, unexpected journey the 2025 Blue Jays season delivered! We witnessed an improbable climb to the World Series, culminating in a truly heart-wrenching Game 7 battle that left us with the bitter taste of defeat.

October 26, 2025

How To [vil-helm] #141: 11-02-2025 - Canada's Hidden Thanksgiving History

Last week, as Canada celebrated Thanksgiving, our hearts were filled with profound gratitude and reflection. We not only cherished time with loved ones but also rediscovered the holiday's unique roots, predating the US one all the way back to 1578! It was a beautiful reminder of

October 19, 2025

#140 - The Alyce Gazette: October Dispatch

Alright, folks — if you thought parenting a toddler was about routines, Alyce has officially thrown that idea out the window. This month's dispatch: Super Strong Opinions, Lightning Speed, and a Dad's survival guide from the trenches. Plus, Kat's Week Three report from the daycar

October 12, 2025

#139 - The Balancing Act

This week's letter comes from the space between 'trying my best' and 'running on fumes.' An honest look at the season of juggling — work that drains more than it inspires, a body asking for rest, and the quiet lesson that balance isn't a destination, it's a rhythm.

September 28, 2025

#137 - A Birthday Week Like No Other

This birthday week found me on the road — Ottawa, Montreal, a 5:30 a.m. booth setup on my actual birthday — powered by St-Viateur bagels and adrenaline. But coming home to my little pack (and a toddler who's apparently now a matchmaker) reminded me exactly how lucky I am.

September 21, 2025

#136 - Embracing the Autumn Air

Hello Vilhelmians. September brings cooler air, the Frenchies coming alive, pawpaw season, and a family stroll through Bayfront Park. But this week also carried a stark reminder — from a YouTuber's tragic news — about why we can't wait for life to happen to us.

September 14, 2025

#135 - Life in the Fast Lane with a Toddler

Hello everyone. Kat's away hobnobbing with industry leaders, so it's Dada's turn to hold down the fort. This week: a freshly-squeezed-juice obsession that spiraled into a Facebook Marketplace quest, a work P1 with a toddler yelling 'Dada, cookies!' in the background, and what it

September 7, 2025

#134 - End of Summer Surprise Party at Moe's!

What started as Moe's annual end-of-summer BBQ turned into a double surprise — celebrating our friend Gil's new business and my sister's birthday. A tale of DIY chaos, a helium 'balloon man,' and the friendships that help you figure anything out (even a couple hours late).

August 31, 2025

#133 - The Beauty of Imperfection

Hello Vilhelmians. This week my sister visited from the States, and between an accidental duty-free misadventure and a face-to-face standoff with a rhino at the African Lion Safari, the whole week became a meditation on imperfection, family roots, and seeing the world through my

August 24, 2025

#132 - Home is Where the Heart Is

Hello everyone! One of the most demanding weeks in a while — an Air Canada strike, a monumental AI project, and Kat criss-crossing the country while Dada held down the homefront. Two perspectives on the same week: hers on the road, his at home with two Frenchies and a toddler.

August 17, 2025

#131 - Family, Teamwork, and Our Latest Win!

Hey everyone. This week we're celebrating a milestone years in the making — and being honest about the quiet challenge that follows the big storms: staying connected once the crisis passes. A story about a feeding tube finally set aside, and the small victories that keep a partne

August 10, 2025

#130 - The Blind Faith That Found Predaking

A childhood Transformer, a $200 Marketplace gamble, and a 90-minute drive in cleaning clothes — plus Boujee's (finally correctly-dated) royal birthday, as told by Dapper himself. A full-circle week at the Vilhelm house.

July 27, 2025

#128 - The Weight of the World (and Work)

Hello Vilhelmians. This week is about the loads we insist on carrying alone — at work and at home — and why asking for help is courage, not weakness. Plus, a very overdue summer dispatch from two Frenchies living la dolce vita.

July 20, 2025

#127 - A Fiery Tale: Be Careful What You Wish For

Hey there, friend. This week's story starts at a resort fire show in Mexico and ends with a question for the Lord. A lesson about selfish crowds, sudden rain, and asking a better question — because sometimes God answers like a genie, and you'd better be specific.

July 13, 2025

#126 - From Sun to Seaweed: A Vilhelm Vacation Reflection

Hola, Vilhelmians! We just got back from our first family beach trip as a party of three (five, if you count the Frenchies dreaming of us from home). Here's what the Riviera Maya — seaweed, sargassum, toddler fry heists and all — taught us about presence over perfection.

July 6, 2025

#125 - When Life Gives You Lemons, Go to the Caribbean

A missed wedding and eye-watering Muskoka cottage prices send Damian and Kat on a last-minute all-inclusive dash to Cancun — booked at 2 AM Monday, wheels-up Friday. Between poolside margaritas and parent-to-parent chats, they rediscover themselves in the remix of family life.

June 29, 2025

#124 - Two Days with the Dads

With Mom away in Ottawa for a couple of days, Alyce keeps busy with the dads and nanny TayTay, spotting her beloved ducks on the water trail. Auntie Sharon visits too, bonding over 'shums,' avocado and ice cream.

June 22, 2025

#123 - I Passed My Swallow Study!

It's Alyce's first swallow study in a whole year, complete with the magical marshmallowy barium paste and a giant X-ray machine. Drum roll — she passes with flying colours, breezing through water, puree and brownie (the Biscoff cookie was the only tricky bit).

June 15, 2025

#122 - A Father's Day Celebration

Ahead of another swallow study, Alyce pauses to celebrate Father's Day with a tender poem for her dada. Then Boujee and Dapper crash the party with their own sassy, snack-fuelled tribute to the Dads.

June 8, 2025

#121 - Growing Up So Fast

Almost 1.5 years old and 84 cm tall, Alyce recaps a week that included a real choking scare with tortilla chips — handled fast by dad's back blows and mom's 911 call. She's back to happy, doting on her Daps and Boujee and thrilled to have dada home from a work trip.

June 1, 2025

#120 - Mom MIA, Dad Stepped Up

With Mom away, Alyce gives us a play-by-play of a week of 'Dad training' — from park picnics and duck-spotting to breakfast-pouch betrayals and the great toy clean-up outrage. By week's end, Dad has (eventually) graduated from Learning the Ropes school.

May 25, 2025

#119 - McHappy Day and My First Happy Meal

Alyce explains why McHappy Day means so much to her family after the Ronald McDonald Room gave them a home away from home at McMaster Children's Hospital. She also scores her very first Happy Meal — and promptly steals a bite of her nanny's cheeseburger.

May 18, 2025

#118 - Back Home from Europe

Back from Europe for two weeks, 17-month-old Alyce is savouring home comforts, a cozy 'shum' bedtime buddy, and a new upcoming swallow study. She's stringing words together, adores saying 'Dapsss,' and has just discovered the backyard.

May 4, 2025

#116 - Welcome to Planckendael!

An impromptu change of plans sends Kat, Damian and Alyce from Prague to Kat's childhood home in Brussels, and to Planckendael, the wildlife park she loved as a girl. Watching Alyce light up at her first real-life giraffe becomes the trip's most magical moment.

April 27, 2025

How To [vil-helm] #115: 11-09-2025 Embracing Family Wellness Community Success and Joyful Returns Home

We love seeing you succeed, and often hear incredible stories from our community about overcoming challenges to achieve remarkable goals. Today, we're delighted to share some of that inspiration by highlighting how fellow members are leveraging our tools to truly thrive and reach

April 6, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #112

Hello our Vilhelmians! Get ready for an update on Alyce's big trip to Europe, where she'll meet her grandparents and explore new places. We're excited to share our family's adventure as we navigate traveling with a toddler who has extra needs, and we can't wait to see Alyce inter

March 30, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #111

Alyce is getting ready for her first plane ride to the Czech Republic, where she'll meet her family and have many new adventures, with Mommy and Daddy packing everything she needs. Damian and Katerina are starting their plants from seeds this year, inspired by the Three Rivers Ho

March 23, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #110

Hello our Vilhelmians! This week, Alyce had her first sleep study, got vaccines, and visited her family nurse practitioner. She's growing strong and curious. Damian and Katerina are exploring faith, culture, and identity, seeking to balance tradition with independent thought. The

March 16, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #109

Hello our Vilhelmians! Alyce is 15 months old, got her first baby shoes, and is ready for a sleep study at SickKids. Damian reflects on Jamaican culture, funerals, and community, highlighting the importance of celebrating life and legacy, and finding guidance in others' stories a

March 9, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #108

Alyce is growing up fast, getting into everything, and learning new things, with a mission to discover all the cool things in life, and having fun along the way. Damian's birthday was a surprise party filled with laughter, old stories, and delicious food, thanks to Kat's planning

March 1, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #107

Hello our Vilhelmians! Get ready for a fun-filled update from the Vilhelm family, including Alyce's birthday celebrations, a trip to San Jose, and the dogs' new diet. Alyce's week was filled with birthday celebrations for her Dada, complete with cake, balloons, and gifts. She eve

February 22, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #106

Hello our Vilhelmians! Alyce is recovering, walking, and enjoying food, especially her "shum" moments with yummy meals like oranges and pasta. Damian reflects on moving to Canada, searching for "greener pastures," and now considering Thailand, weighing the value of cultural richn

February 15, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #105

Alyce is 14 months old, running and trying new foods, celebrating her 1st real Valentine's Day with love and joy. Damian's chaotic Valentine's Day, juggling work and family, with a romantic lunch and funny gift for Kat, amidst a busy schedule. Boujee and Dapper's snowy adventures

February 8, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #104

Alyce's adventures: 14 months old, surprises, and fun, two nurses visit, and a hospital trip. Nap time: essential for busy lives, 20-30 minute power nap boosts mood, NASA approves 26-minute naps, and the couch is the ultimate spot. Dapper and Boujee's winter fun: snow, dog sofa,

February 1, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #103

Hello our Vilhelmians! Alyce had a busy week, with a big hike, ice skating, and meetings with mom, and dad had his first 48 hours solo with her. Meanwhile, Damian reflected on 2024, noting growth, parenting adventures, and a newfound appreciation for peace over happiness, includi

January 25, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #102

Catch Alyce's adventures with mom & dogs while Dad was away. Damian shares his experience with a new boss & navigating change in the workplace. Boujee & Dapper, the chic French bulldogs, talk about life with Alyce & their favorite gourmet meals.

January 18, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #101

Alyce is walking, teething, and Keeping parents on their toes with her new skills and antics, a fun update on baby's milestones. Damian and Katerina navigate toddlerhood, seeking routines, and sanity, while sharing joys and chaos of parenting and work life balance. Boujee and Dap

January 11, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #100

Alyce is on the move, exploring kitchen and living room, discovering new things, and standing up without help, and loves books but rips soft pages. Damian and Katerina celebrate 100th newsletter, grateful for readers, and looking forward to continuing the conversation and growing

January 4, 2025

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #99

Hello our Vilhelmians! Reflecting on 2024, a year of hope, dreams, and immense gratitude, filled with Alyce's milestones and our village's unwavering support. Alyce's journey was marked by challenges, triumphs, and joy, with her village by her side, celebrate her first Valentine'

January 1, 2025

How To [vil-helm] - Happy New Year

Dear friends and family, As we bid farewell to 2024, we’re overwhelmed with gratitude for the love, support, and kindness that have carried us through this year. It has been a journey of challenges, milestones, and deep joy—one made possible by the incredible people around us. Th

December 28, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #98

Welcome back, Vilhelmians! This week, Alyce embraces the freedom of solo exploration, accompanied by the ever-faithful Boujee and Dapper. Damian and Katerina share their cherished memories of a holiday season brimming with love, laughter, and unforgettable adventures from Pickeri

December 21, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #97

Hello our Vilhelmians! Get ready for exciting updates on Alyce's first birthday, her European family meetups, and fun adventures with the furry gang, Boujee and Dapper! Catch a glimpse into Alyce's amazing week: meeting her European family, taking the train to Toronto, and crossi

December 14, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #96

I'm turning one and it's been a ride! From my surprise party to the love and gifts from everyone, I feel so grateful and loved. My favorite part was having my Dida and Babi from Europe, along with Tete and Charlie, here with me. It made my party the best ever! Celebrating Alyce's

December 7, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #95

Hello, friends! It’s Alyce here, and I’m almost one year old! 🎉 The countdown to my first birthday is on, and my parents have been busy planning the party. In the meantime, I’ve been having fun with my Christmas calendar and reading new books with my nanny. There’s so much to loo

November 30, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #94

Alyce is growing rapidly. She recently had a check-up at the hospital and received great news. She's now 9.5 kilograms and 76.6 centimeters tall. Alyce also passed her clinical swallow assessment and tried new foods like pizza, pancakes, and apple pie. Kat's friend Hildred hosted

November 23, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #93

Here are the summaries for each topic, formatted according to the specified NLP-friendly requirements: Alyce is excited for Christmas and her upcoming birthday. She loves the decorations and can't wait to see what's in her stocking. Her mom is busy planning a party, and Alyce has

November 16, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #92

Alyce is discovering the world around her. Her hair is growing long, and she loves it when DADA brushes it. She also enjoys trying new foods, like pizza with cheese and broccoli soup. Did you know, that in South Carolina, 43 Rhesus Macaque monkeys escaped from a research facility

November 9, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #91

Alyce shares her first week experience with Mama back at work, where she accompanies her to meetings and plays with her colleagues. She's excited about her upcoming 11th-month birthday and can't wait to celebrate with her loved ones. Fall has arrived in Hamilton, bringing cooler

November 2, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #90

Alyce Celebrates Her First Halloween. I explored the world of Halloween with my family, trying on two costumes and visiting our neighbors. Finding a Good Work-Life Balance. Prioritizing family and work is a challenge I'm working to overcome. I recently had to choose between a cru

October 26, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #89

I'm Alyce, 10 months old, and my life has been a rollercoaster. My mom recently went back to work, and it's been an adjustment. But with the help of my nanny, I've been having so much fun cooking, walking, and playing with my furry friends, Boujee and Dapper. Now that my mom is w

October 19, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #88

Alyce celebrated her first Thanksgiving with her family and enjoyed trying new foods, despite having a swallowing issue. Her mom made sure she had safe and yummy options. Alyce had a major breakthrough with her eating after Thanksgiving and can now eat 100 ml of purée or soup. Sh

October 12, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #87

Hello Vilhelmians, We have an exciting edition for you, featuring two inspiring stories about seizing the moment and embracing the beauty of nature. First, Damian shares his magical encounter with the Northern Lights, a bucket-list experience he almost missed due to doubt and com

October 5, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #86

In this week's newsletter Post #1: Tiny Tales from Alyce's Weekly Wonders Hi everyone, it’s me, Alyce! Can you believe I’m going to be 10 months old next week? That means I’m getting super close to being ONE YEAR OLD! I can hardly believe it myself—time really flies when you’re h

September 28, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #85

In this week's newsletter Post #1: Tiny Tales from Alyce's Weekly Wonders Hey everyone! It’s me, Alyce, your favorite 9-month-old explorer! Guess what?! I’ve been wiggling, scooting, and making those tiny little moves that make everyone think, "Is she going to crawl soon?" And gu

September 21, 2024

Damian & Katerina = How To [vil-helm] #84

**Welcome to our monthly newsletter!** In this issue, we'll

September 15, 2024

#83 - Embracing the Little Moments

At nine months, Alyce is sitting up on her own, cutting sharp new teeth, and sitting in on nanny Zoom calls. Damian savours a bittersweet, sleep-stealing night with his not-quite-cuddler beside him, while Boujee celebrates Dapper's return to their morning walks.

September 14, 2024

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In this week's newsletter Post #1: Tiny Tales from Alyce's Weekly Wonders Hi everyone! It's me, Alyce, and guess what? I just turned 9 months old! Can you believe it? That means I’ve been out in the big world for as long as I was in my mommy’s belly. What a journey so far—so many

September 7, 2024

How To [vil-helm] #82

September 1, 2024

#81 - Screen Time and the Baby Crab

Two weeks out from surgery, Alyce visits grandma, weathers new teeth, and gears up for her first camping trip. Damian and Kat confront their own screen habits after some eye-opening research, while Boujee and Dapper wait out a heatwave for cooler 'French Bulldog Weather.'

August 25, 2024

#80 - Eight Months of Milestones and Mayhem

One week after surgery, Alyce is sassier than ever, crawling backwards like a baby crab and soaking up love from neighbours and family. Meanwhile Damian and Kat map out 8-month milestones and Boujee survives a frozen-grape scare with a trip to the ER.

August 18, 2024

#79 - Alyce's NG Tube Is Gone

Alyce's NG tube finally comes out after her 45-minute g-tube surgery, and both she and Kat exhale after eight relentless months of ER trips and round-the-clock tube-watching. It's a week of ups and downs that ends with a freer face and a new tooth on the way.

August 11, 2024

#78 - We Got Hate (Feedback)!

Last week's paternity-test story sparked plenty of discussion. Here's a heartfelt response on why the newsletter exists, what it means to 'Vilhelm,' and why being open — even about the hard stuff — builds community.

August 4, 2024

#77 - A Journey to Fatherhood at 99.99999998%

Told once that his 'boys don't swim,' Damian faced an uncomfortable question when Alyce arrived. This is the honest story of a paternity test, a vulnerable conversation with Kat, and the relief of fully embracing fatherhood.

July 28, 2024

#76 - Aakwa'ode'ewin: A Journey of Heart and Strength

At a board retreat in Toronto, a single word — bravery — unlocked a flood of emotion. Kat reflects on courage through the Anishinaabe Seven Grandfather Teachings, and everything the past year has demanded of her.

July 21, 2024

#75 - If Our House Could Talk: A Summer of Missed Opportunities

The House returns with a gentle plea — the fire pit's still not hooked up, the lawn's a jungle, there are three raccoons in the shed, and it just wants the family to slow down and savour home.

July 14, 2024

#74 - Saturday Family Adventures: Discovering Port Dalhousie

The Saturday-adventure tradition continues at historic Port Dalhousie — blue-water marina, Alyce's very first swim, and Damian discovering the unexpected joy of a baby float.

July 7, 2024

#73 - The Importance of Seeking Help: A Journey with ADHD

An honest, personal exploration of a possible ADHD diagnosis — the chaos of the mind, the stigma of seeking help, and why professional support matters more than a TikTok feed.

June 30, 2024

#72 - Family Connections: DADA, or Was That PRADA?

The NYC sisters and nieces made the trek to Canada to finally meet Alyce in person — a whirlwind of smiles, stories, food, and a fashionable plot to make her first word 'Prada.'

June 23, 2024

#71 - If Our House Could Talk: Father's Day Part 2

The House checks back in on 'Life with the Tall One, the Kat, and the New Tiny Dictator' — Damian's shrinking territory — followed by a tongue-in-cheek look at how Father's Day really goes.

June 16, 2024

#70 - Father's Day: A History and a Thank You

A special Father's Day issue — the story of Sonora Smart Dodd, who founded the holiday, followed by Damian's heartfelt thank-you on his first 'human' Father's Day.

June 9, 2024

#69 - A Spontaneous Day Trip to Port Dover

A casual dog-walk conversation turned into a spontaneous family day trip to Port Dover — fresh perch and pickerel, a beach-town vibe, and two dogs along for the ride.

June 2, 2024

#68 - House Hilarity & a Newsletter Rebrand

A peek into the hilariously chaotic day-to-day of the household — the meeting-machine dad, the whirlwind mom, and the one tradition they never miss. Plus: help us rename the newsletter!

May 26, 2024

#67 - Roots of Resilience

A reflection on roots and resilience — how deep foundations weather life's storms, what trees and loyal dogs can teach us about it, and the hope of passing that strength on to Alyce.

May 19, 2024

#66 - A Joyous Family Visit (and Guest Notes on Self-Care)

Our home filled with Afghan food, laughter, and cooing as family finally got to hold five-month-old Alyce. Guest writer Kim opens the issue with hard-won wisdom on self-care and mindfulness through stressful seasons.

May 12, 2024

#65 - Happy Mother's Day

Issue #65 honours the mothers. Alyce masters the swaddle and the fine art of crib travel, the family offers a heartfelt Mother's Day tribute to the hearts that shape our world, and Dapper plays daredevil. With love, from all of us.

May 5, 2024

#64 - Chicago Chronicles

Issue #64: Alyce hits 4.5 months and a week of adorable mischief while Dad's away, Damian returns from his first Chicago work trip since becoming a father, and the Frenchies take charge of home security. Distance, homecoming, and the pull of family.

April 28, 2024

#63 - Saying Goodbye to a Lifelong Friend

Issue #63: Alyce checks in on her laryngomalacia and shows off her nightly Houdini escapades, Damian says a bittersweet goodbye to a lifelong friend heading home, and the Frenchies delight in their new treat system. On distance, connection, and staying close.

April 21, 2024

#62 - Happy 420

Issue #62: Alyce takes on a tricky swallow study (and masters grabbing her own toes), Damian uses 420 as a jumping-off point to reflect on challenging long-held beliefs, and the gourmet pooches chronicle their week. Giggles, gurgles, and a little open-mindedness.

April 14, 2024

#61 - Turning the Page

Issue #61: Alyce turns four months and samples pineapple and yogurt, Damian turns the page on parental leave and the strange feeling of returning to the office, and the Frenchies witness a celestial eclipse (with grandma spoiling them rotten). A chapter turns.

April 7, 2024

#60 - This Sucks (The Robot Vacuum Hunt)

Issue #60: Alyce celebrates her first Easter and discovers the glory of FOOD, Damian goes hunting for a new robot vacuum after a falling-out with iRobot, and the Frenchies cash in on the holiday treats. Spring has sprung — and so has the great vacuum quest.

March 31, 2024

#59 - Turning Over a New Leaf

Issue #59 is a green-thumb issue: Damian turns over a new leaf, trading a one-sided orchid romance for Philodendrons and Alocasias. Alyce clocks a busy week of growth and power naps, and Dapper pines like a canine Casanova. Come grow with us.

March 24, 2024

#58 - Tropical Dreams & the Postpartum Bounce-Back

Issue #58: Alyce escapes to a tropical paradise (well, a greenhouse) with new friend Nurse Anne, Katerina gets honest about the realities of postpartum recovery, and the Frenchies mourn their confiscated toys. Warmth, candor, and a little chaos.

March 17, 2024

#57 - More Than Meets the Eye

Issue #57 steps into the future: the family creates their very first AI-generated video, the House delivers a gloriously grumbly ode to Damian's Transformers collection, and the Frenchies weather Hamilton's mood-swing spring. Robots in disguise, indeed.

March 10, 2024

#56 - CPR Training & the Home Bar

Issue #56 opens with the House itself narrating the arrival of a vintage bar cart, then turns serious as Damian and Katerina complete life-saving CPR and AED training. From an '80s relic to a chic home bar, and from curiosity to preparedness — with the Frenchies napping through i

March 3, 2024

#55 - Another Year Around the Sun

Issue #55 is a birthday issue. Alyce navigates her busy schedule and finally meets her Grandma, Damian reflects on another year around the sun, and the Frenchies hold court. Cake, gratitude, and the small wonders of a full week.

February 25, 2024

#54 - A World Outside

Issue #54: Alyce takes her very first walk outside (and wins a new nickname — Madame Madame, by a landslide), the family draws lessons on boundaries from the old tale of Eli and his farm, and Nurse Boujee reports for duty. A week of firsts, wonder, and a little wisdom.

February 18, 2024

#53 - Embracing the Chaos

Hello Vilhelmians! Issue #53 lands with baby Alyce settling in at home, Damian wrestling a rough patch of work feedback into a plan of attack, and the Frenchies filing their weekly complaints. Snuggles, systems, and a whole lot of chaos to embrace.

February 11, 2024

#52 - Celebrating One Year of Adventure

A whole year of weekly updates! We celebrate the anniversary, share Alyce’s first weeks home from the hospital, and let the Frenchies and the House have their say.

February 4, 2024

#51 - Alyce Is Home!

After 43 days and nights, Alyce is finally home. She takes in blue skies and Dad’s giant plants, Damian and Kat reflect on the journey out of the hospital, and the Frenchies adjust to their new roommate.

January 28, 2024

#50 - Forty Days

Forty days in ‘hotel hospital’: Alyce marks the milestone, Damian and Kat move through the stages of grief toward acceptance and a diagnosis, and the Frenchies count the days until their sister comes home.

January 21, 2024

#49 - Love, Progress and Hope

Alyce shares hopeful progress on her reflux and breathing, Damian and Kat celebrate her first murmurs and a passed hearing test, and the Frenchies return home from Auntie’s.

January 14, 2024

#48 - Alyce’s Weekly Wonders: One Month Old

Alyce turns one month old and starts her own ‘Weekly Wonders’, Damian and Kat count their blessings after hopeful news, and the House chimes in with an update of its own.

January 7, 2024

#47 - Swaddle Wars: The Great Escape

Twenty days into hospital life, Alyce reveals herself to be a tiny escape artist, and the family learns that even the smallest warrior can negotiate her own terms.

December 31, 2023

#46 - Reflection, Resilience and Gratitude

As winter settles in, the family reflects on a year of challenges and heartwarming support, with McMaster Children’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House and dear friends lighting the way.

December 24, 2023

#45 - A Christmas Unlike Any Other

Life takes an unexpected turn as baby Alyce is admitted to McMaster Children’s Hospital, and the family finds themselves spending their first Christmas together within hospital walls.

December 17, 2023

#44 - Introducing Alyce Lilith

The biggest news yet from our little corner of Hamilton: our baby girl, Alyce Lilith, has arrived.

December 10, 2023

#43 - Our Filmmaking Journey: Hello YouTube

Damian shares a lifelong love of storytelling through film as he and Kat pick up the camera, the 39-week countdown ticks on, and the Frenchies claim the new baby bassinet.

December 3, 2023

#42 - Our Countdown to Parenthood

December arrives and the nest is ready: Katerina hits 38 weeks, Dapper turns three, and the whole pack waits, bags packed, for the newest member to arrive.

November 26, 2023

#41 - The CPKC Holiday Train Comes to Hamilton

A thousand feet of holiday lights rolls into Hamilton, Katerina celebrates the launch of First Exposure, and Dapper turns three with donuts and bowties.

November 19, 2023

#40 - Family Reunion in the Great White North

This week the house filled up with laughter as Damian’s NYC family came north, the Grey Cup sailed into Hamilton, and two Frenchies discovered the joys of matching sweaters.

November 12, 2023

#39 - The Great Car Seat Odyssey & a Behavior-Change Manifesto

Damian and Kat go to war with a Transformer car seat, IKEA-style, fueled by chips and YouTube tutorials. Then Damian shares a heartfelt behavior-change statement — trading the rush for serenity and abundance — while Boujee & Dapper puzzle over Dad's Chick-Fil-A cravings. 🐾

November 5, 2023

#38 - Copy Kat! & 34 Weeks of the 'Egg'

The friendly Kat-vs-Damian rivalry levels up as Damian pulls a "Copy KAT" and finishes his own MBA Essential course. Then Kat hits 34 weeks — the "egg," the rebelling wardrobe, and looming maternity leave — and Dapper appoints himself the baby's official guardian. 🐾

October 29, 2023

#37 - Between Work and Love, a 'Pregnant Damian' & the Dogs Meet AI

A concerned text prompts Damian and Kat to reflect on being workaholics who still cherish the people they love. Then Kat unwraps Damian's birthday gift — a prenatal massage booked, hilariously, under his name — and Boujee & Dapper discover DALL·E-3. 🐾

October 22, 2023

#36 - Becoming Real: From One Baby to Another

At 32 weeks the reality of parenthood lands hard on Damian — parental leave, handing off a project he's poured himself into, and the lessons his dogs already taught him about responsibility. Then Boujee & Dapper feast on kangaroo and open babysitter applications, and pawpaw f

October 15, 2023

#35 - Canadian Thanksgiving: Thank You Ange & Moe!

As the leaves turn red and gold, the Vilhelm crew — Boujee and Dapper included — gathers with friends Moe and Ange for a Canadian Thanksgiving full of food, laughter, and gratitude. 🍁

October 8, 2023

#34 - Roles & Responsibilities and the Pawpaw Festival

The House files an org chart of the household (CEOs, front-desk Frenchies, and conflict-resolution consultants), Damian and Kat chase the elusive pawpaw to a farm festival, and the dogs count down to a Thanksgiving family of soon-to-be five. 🐾

October 1, 2023

#33 - Our First 10K Wagon Walk & the Great Smart-Switch Dream

The Frenchie Express hits Cootes Paradise for a first-ever 10K, Damian's home-automation dream runs headfirst into a whole box of smart switches and a mountain of YouTube tutorials, and the third-trimester naps roll on. 🐾

September 24, 2023

#32 - Boujee & Dapper Take Over the Newsletter

The humans are buried under house chores, a mysterious "RFP," and a Montreal conference — so Boujee & Dapper seize the reins, run the household, and send birthday love to Tete. 🐾

September 17, 2023

#31 - Pregnancy Famous, First Exposure & the Mulch Warrior

Kat lends her pregnant belly to a Hollywood debut for First Exposure, the front-yard jungle becomes a "Black Mulch, Grasses, Maple & Yucca Heaven" — complete with a pregnant cart-thief showdown at Home Depot — and Boujee & Dapper eye Cootes Paradise. 🐾

September 10, 2023

#30 - The Front Garden Makeover & Our Secret Beach Oasis

Five projects going, five more planned — this week the front garden finally gets its makeover (RIP most of the plants), the family discovers a secret beach right in the neighbourhood for moonlit wagon walks, and Boujee & Dapper declare life officially good. 🐾

September 3, 2023

#29 - Wasp Wars, 3AM Emails & the Wheels of Fortune Wagon

A full-blown wasp convention moves into the granny-house roof and Damian goes to battle with a vacuum, both workaholics burn the candle at both ends chasing long-term gains, Kat feels the baby cha-cha on a Zoom call, and the family finally scores THE wagon. 🐾

August 27, 2023

#28 - The Deck Is Done, a Surprise Family Photo & Feedback Wins

Rome wasn't built in a day — and neither was our deck, but it's finally finished. Kat gets a heart-tugging surprise when family turns up at a mall halfway across the world, Damian brings feedback (and tiny dresses) home from Chicago and Guatemala, and Dapper leaves his mark on Ka

August 20, 2023

#27 - Mid-Year Check-In, Jim & the Childbirth Class

The House files a mid-year status report (the deck is still not done), Damian gets asked the hardest question of the year — "how's Damian doing?" — survives his first virtual childbirth class, and Boujee & Dapper charm Pier 8. 🐾

August 13, 2023

#26 - The Deck Got Its First Stain!

The deck finally got its first coat of stain — right before the rain clouds rolled in. Plus a carnivorous plant declares war on fruit flies, Kat on why self-reflection matters in relationships, and Boujee's birthday tutu.

August 6, 2023

#25 - We Have a Fence!

Dapper's skunk saga finally paid off — it lit the fire to build a fence, and it's standing tall. Plus the great baby-name quest (now with Jamaican accent), the joys of inversion therapy, and the dogs missing their Europeans.

July 30, 2023

#24 - Those Europeans & a Gender Reveal

A full house of Kat's family, a last-minute gender reveal (it's a girl!), and a lesson in "white people food." Plus the saga of Dapper vs. a skunk — and the 3am garden-hose aftermath.

July 23, 2023

#23 - Studená at 19 Weeks

The House is buzzing: European visitors, mysterious pink-and-blue Amazon packages, and a secret code name — "Studená" — hitting 19 weeks. A gender reveal is coming this Sunday.

July 16, 2023

#22 - Canuck the Kat!

O Canada — Kat is officially a citizen (and officially employed at a new job). The House spills some gossip about unstained decks, Damian confesses his Facebook Marketplace addiction, and we say goodbye to a dear neighbour.

July 9, 2023

#21 - We Went Camping!

We took the whole pack camping at Long Point — and the "weakest one" surprised everybody. Plus a Greek-restaurant detour that felt like a vacation, and a citizenship ceremony that email forgot to invite Damian to.

July 2, 2023

#20 - Studená voda

Week 15, and our little one is the size of an apple — nicknamed "Studená voda" after a Hamilton waterfront find. We also say goodbye to a dear little dog named Brownie, and welcome Uncle Bobby from Florida.

June 25, 2023

#19 - The Baby & a Peloton

The House is still processing this "Baby" project nobody cleared with it — while Damian finally caves and buys a Peloton off Marketplace. Plus Kat on leaving a beloved team and navigating pregnancy's calm and stormy seas.

June 18, 2023

#18 - We're Going to Be Parents

Father's Day edition — and the biggest news yet: Damian's going to be a real dad. A baby's due at the end of the year, the deck waits on a tough work trip, and the Frenchies volunteer as big-sibling bodyguards.

June 11, 2023

#17 - Tech Debt

Damian makes the case that tech debt is just emotional baggage you can plug in — right before his patio-sanding saga humbles him. Then Grand Dad's donuts reopen (10,000 a day!) and the Frenchies claim their new spots.

June 4, 2023

#16 - I'm a Godfather!

A 6lb baby girl made Damian a godfather this week (naming rights denied). Meanwhile the patio-staining saga spirals, two dear friends turn a year older, and the Frenchies find a brand-new park.

May 28, 2023

#15 - Our First Harvest

Scissors in hand, we snipped our very first homegrown salad — and even the meat-loving Frenchies wanted in. Plus: Damian breaks up with yet another doorbell, and the pups conquer a WeWork office.

May 21, 2023

#14 - Another Visitor & Taking Nothing for Granted

Our #1 newsletter fan came for dinner, a package thief met our vigilant neighbours, and a grandmother's passing reminded us what we quietly take for granted. Plus a raw-meat report from the Frenchies.

May 14, 2023

#13 - Almost Canadian!

Damian passes his citizenship exam, a heartwarming Zoom call with the home's former owners, a tribute to mothers everywhere, and two Frenchies discovering the glory of air conditioning.

May 7, 2023

#12 - David & Asha's Wedding

A joyful night at David and Asha's wedding, a plant obsession spiraling past 40 pots, Damian's rules for getting started with investing, and two Frenchies who simply adore their new house.

April 23, 2023

#11 - I'm Fine, Everything's Fine

Layoffs loom in the background but we're keeping perspective, our first international visitors cross the border, our house files some complaints about Mr. DIY, and Dapper reunites with his second dad.

April 16, 2023

#10 - Our First House Disaster

A second-floor leak baptizes us into homeownership, an Easter visitor, a love letter to Asana (no, not the yoga pose), a surprise Frenchie butler, and one Frenchie who is Not A Fan of the heat.

April 9, 2023

#9 - We Have New Tenants!

New tenants for Valhalla, a reminder that you're always closer than you think, and two Frenchies soaking up sunny days by the pier.

April 2, 2023

#8 - Goodbye Jeep, Hello Volvo

Out with the trusty Jeep and in with a new Volvo, our first Hamilton house guests bearing orchids, a spontaneous night in Niagara Falls, and two very well-babysat Frenchies.

March 26, 2023

#7 - I'm Russian... NOT!

Kat's DNA results settle a long-running joke, Chicago steals a few hearts, and two Frenchies live the high life on a boys-are-away week with Kat.

March 19, 2023

#6 - I'm Done With My MBA

Kat conquers her MBA course, a front door demands a lock shipped from the Czech Republic, a baby shower in Toronto, and a heartfelt tribute to Damian's mom on her 86th.

March 12, 2023

#5 - If My House Could Talk

A house that begs to be left alone, a home-automation guy who won't listen, a surprise spa day for a Jamaican in -6°C weather, and two Frenchies finally finding their footing.

March 5, 2023

#4 - The Move to Hamilton

The move is done! A seamless trip to Hamilton, a snowstorm-fuelled birthday reflection on turning "29 again," and two Frenchies discovering snow for the very first time.

February 26, 2023

#3 - We Are Moving Today!

It's moving day — narrated by two stressed-but-hopeful Frenchies — plus the realtor rockstar who found us the house, the legendary donut shop next door, and a friendship that crosses oceans.

February 19, 2023

#2 - One Week Till the Move

One week to the big move, a godfather-to-be with strong opinions on baby names, and a citizenship exam invite — plus a phishing warning you'll want to read.

February 12, 2023

#1 - Who We Are & Our New Chapter

Meet Damian and Katerina — two people from opposite corners of the world, two Frenchies, and one atypical new house in Hamilton. Welcome to the first chapter.