On my favorite home hacks

Posted on July 7, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

There are a few items in my home that seem so small and trivial but make me pretty darn happy (or in some cases, pretty darn healthy). These are the items I recommend over and over to other people. I thought I would link them up here in case you were interested – ENJOY!! You can click on the photos to shop or save to a wishlist as well!

Sleep with a snorer?
1. Diffuser right by their bed (to be more specific, pointing right at their face) with some Breathe oil – helps their snoring and in our case, gave him a more peaceful sleep
2. Headband bluetooth headphones – some white noise, mediation, etc. to help you fall and stay asleep. These things are so comfy!!

In the kitchen (from someone that rarely cooks anything – so take with a grain of salt here obvi):

1. Best chopper with different size blades for easy salad prep –

2. Milk frother – fun to whip up for coffee and hot chocolate for the kiddos!

Digestive/IBS issues (ew David) –
Okay this is weird but I attribute a complete overhaul of my digestion to 2 things – my beloved Terrazyme supplements and this crazy contraption I first saw on Shark Tank. Honestly I miss it for my morning business when we’re away or camping….haha. Don’t judge.

Extreme jaw pain – from all the stress and all the teeth clenching when a night guard didn’t work for me, I saw this pillow suggested, went for it and it worked wonders!!! I have no idea how it works but it did for me!

Some of this fun stuff is on sale in anticipation of Prime Days so score a deal or two…..happy life hack shopping! Also, here’s a link to the rest of my Amazon recommendation lists if you want to take a peek:
1. School Counseling office
2. Clothing/Beauty recommendations
3. Trauma informed reads

Not a home hack, I just really like our door mat.

Happy 14th Birthday WonderBOY!

Posted on April 20, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

My little man turns 14 today and I thought I would take this chance to document some of the things that I love about him as he grows into a young man and never want to forget.

1. His empathy – I am sure this a byproduct of his early childhood, but this child can sense when we are 10% sadder, madder, upset, etc and will instantly come check on what’s wrong.
2. Every morning he asks me how I slept and every time I come home he specifically asks how work, practice, my meeting went (and genuinely listens to my answer).
3. He never stops talking….which yes gets him in trouble at school but at home means we get to hear all about his thoughts, his friends, his wonderings….and I love that.
4. He is becoming very articulate about his feelings….although it was painful at the time, I got to witness him share his vulnerable feelings with his older sister and her impact on him in a way that brought tears to my eyes. Not because of the words and impact (although that was heartbreaking), but because I know we have helped him find his voice, make sense of his childhood trauma triggers, and feel brave enough to share that with others.
5. When Scott is at work, WB loves to watch my nighttime show with me (Gilmore Girls forever)….but is deeply offended when I turn over to face away from him. “Noooooo not the butt side. Then I can’t see your face.” It literally makes me melt and laugh all at the same time…..

And some embarrassing yet CCCUUUUTTTTEEEEE older photos that I can’t resist posting:

We’re headed to Kyotos for his birthday dinner and I’m hoping he will put on a repeat performance.

And maybe because WG is out there navigating adult life but for some reason, WB turning 14 feels like the beginning of the END and he will be leaving us soon. I peeked out the window the other day and he was BEHIND THE WHEEL and parking the truck (with Scott guiding of course). My little nugget was in charge of a whole large vehicle and I’m pretty sure my heart stopped…..so there’s that.

I love him so and can’t wait to continue watching his personality and relationships grow and thrive.

On my One Little Word – 3 months in

Posted on April 7, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

A little reflection on my One Little Word, RECLAIM, one quarter into this year.

First things first, I am really trying to reclaim some time for myself to recover and restore from the stresses of the current school year. I knew a big exercise goal would not be healthy for me so just focusing on 20 minutes of movement each day (no matter what it looks like or how many calories I actually burn) has been helpful. Plus, I love seeing the progress on this little circle tracker for the year.

I have loved my Pelo treadmill – the walk playlists and the ability to blog/be creative while I walk has been awesome for me!

With some amazing progress on his own self the past 6 months, Scott and I are trying to also work on our relationship and prioritizing date nights. We are on track for one date per week – we don’t want to get bored though so pass along any fun date night or day suggestions so we can keep things fresh!

As far as travel and adventures, we have been to both Arizona on a plane, Anacortes in our trailer and Leavenworth in a hotel – all great adventures both as a couple and with WonderBOY with us. We still have big dreams of going somewhere warm and tropical over Christmas vacation….but with a few looming family situations, we have to wait a while to officially book it.

Some of the things and/or activities I am still looking forward to reclaiming this year a bit more:
– reading more
– writing more (I’ve hit a bit of writers block for my 40 moments series)
– making money from my professional teachings/trainings

Overall, I am really leaning into listening to my body and giving it and my heart what it needs to navigate each day, hour, new stressful situation….I have always struggled with an even pull towards laziness and productivity with a special dose of guilt for each so finding this balance is always tricky for me.

And per usual, a fun tik Tok to tie up this blog post:

On our favorite campgrounds

Posted on March 2, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

When we first got our travel trailer, I had a few people suggest some gems of campgrounds (some on this very list – thank you Uncle Jimmy) and it was so helpful to us. Thought some of you might be interested as well….so here ya go!

Pioneer Trails – Anacortes, WA
What we love about this private RV park – it’s open year round, is close to both Anacortes and Deception Pass (and a ton of great hiking trails), has a workout room and is so clean and quiet. There has always been spots available even on a short notice reservation.

2. Washington Park – Anacortes WA
This one is a city owned park but is on a great walking/biking loop. It has beautiful views of the islands and feels like you’re camping in the middle of the forest. This is where we took our maiden voyage in our trailer so it holds a special place in my heart. It’s also super close to the ferry terminal if you want to take a day trip to one of the islands (we love Friday Harbor!).

3. Sun Lakes Resort – Coulee City, WA
The site of our annual Fire Family campout. We love the set up here with a sprawling campground (and cabins if that’s your thing). Great place for walks, bike rides, and beautiful hills surrounding the lake. The waterfront beach is not huge so a better option if you have a boat or other water vehicles. Don’t make the mistake of packing too much food because they’re waterfront food stand is 10/10 (mocha milkshakes, fries, and even biscuits and gravy for breakfast).

The view of Sun Lakes Resort from above.

4. Skokomish Park – Hoodsport, WA
We stumbled upon this park last summer and wished we had stayed longer. Great sites and a quick walk to Lake Cushman which was beautiful and quiet, especially with an amazing set of mountains surrounding. The boys loved jumping off the cliffs and I really appreciated quiet mornings on the paddle board!

Lake Cushman – a 3 second walk from our campsite.

5. Concrete KOA – Concrete, WA
The most family friendly park around. Great options for kiddos like a heated pool, jumping pillow and mini golf course. I also appreciate how close to home this park is and a quick drive anywhere you need to go.

6. Crescent Beach RV Park – Port Angeles, WA
This park was a pleasant surprise – you are parked right across from a sandy beach and it’s beautiful from sunrise to sunset, even in rainy PNW weather. There are also some great hiking trails close by with amazing views.

Wading through the bay at Crescent Beach.

Heading east –
7. Ravenwood RV Park (Silverwood) – Athol, ID
We have stayed at Silverwood campground before (and it was great and so convenient to the park) but happened on Ravenwood two summers ago and really appreciated the large pool. We weren’t going to Silverwood but there is a free shuttle which is a plus.

8. Missoula KOA – Missoula, MT
We stopped over just for one night here but it was one of the best KOA’s we’ve seen in our trailer days. Has a fun pool and two hot tubs, plus some fun motor vehicles to rent and drive around the park. This KOA had a variety of sites for any type of camping – the cabins and tent sites looked amazing. They also had an indoor pool and some other great group camping spaces and gathering places.

9. Fairmont RV Resort – Anaconda, MT
We stayed at the Fairmont resort two summers ago and fell in love with the hot springs pools, amazing hot tub, huge water slide for the kiddos and indoor pools when the weather wasn’t great. When we made our reservation, we had no idea there was an RV park right down the road that gave you free admittance to the pools when you stayed there! We plan on heading here for Spring Break and we’re excited!

View of the pool, hot tub, and massive water slide at Fairmont.

On the butterfly and her cocoon

Posted on January 31, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

The new movie, Encanto, has the most beautiful soundtrack….I have loved reading about the meaning behind the songs that are sung entirely in Spanish. This one and its meaning struck me in a big way so I thought I would share the lyrics along with a picture of my current grief.

And as I was listening to this song during a Peloton ride, the instructor said, “the butterfly never holds on to the cocoon – no matter how long it kept it safe and warm.” Breathe in……let go…..accept what is…..repeat.

Dos Oruguitas
Two little caterpillars in love
They spend their nights and early mornings
Full of hunger
They keep walking and navigating a world
That changes and keeps changing
Navigating a world
That changes and keeps changing

Two little caterpillars stop the wind
As they hold each other with warmth and consent
They keep growing, but they don’t know when
To look for a corner shelter
The time keeps changing
They are inseperable
And the time keeps changing

Oh little caterpillars, don’t hold on each other anymore
You have to grow apart and come back
That’s the way forward
Miracles are coming, chrysalises are coming
You have to leave and build your own future

Two little caterpillars feeling disoriented
In two cocoons all bundled up
With new dreams they’re already lacking
All you have to do is do what is necessary
In the world that keeps changing
Knocking down its walls

And then our miracle is coming
Our miracle
Our miracle
Our miracle

Oh, butterflies, don’t hold on each other anymore
You have to grow apart and come back
That’s the way forward

You are already finding miracles, breaking chrysalises
You have to fly, and you have to find
Your own future

Oh, butterflies, don’t hold on each other anymore
You have to grow apart and come back
That’s the way forward

You are already finding miracles, breaking chrysalises
You have to fly, and you have to find
Your own future

Oh, butterflies, don’t hold on each other anymore
You have to grow apart and come back
That’s the way forward

You are already finding miracles, breaking chrysalises
You have to fly, and you have to find
Your own future

On our visit to Atlanta

Posted on January 17, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

Last July, we went along on a work trip with Scott to Atlanta – WonderBOY and I got to explore and swim during the days while he was at his conference. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day today, I thought I would share some pictures and experiences from the very birthplace of such an important leader in our history.

My most memorable moment(s) of the 3-day trip was taking WB to the National Center for Civil and Human Rights – many recommended it to me but also noted “but it’s probably pretty boring for a teenager.”

But WB was SOOOOO engaged the entire time. He took over 100 photos on his camera, asked a million questions, read almost every display and talked about the experience with Dad forever at dinner that night.

Reading about children who died during this time – this boy was only 13, the same age as WonderBOY.

Some quotes and questions I don’t want to forget him saying and asking:
“I know if I look more native (he’s a registered member of Choctaw nation but presents as very Caucasian), I might get treated differently and that’s not okay.”
“I don’t understand why we don’t learn more of THIS information in school.”
“Are there any jobs after high school I can do to keep this work going?”

We also participated in a simulation of a diner “sit-in” protest with the Freedom Riders – with headphones on and sitting at the diner counter, we had sounds of horrific abuse in our ears as our chair and counter rumbled beneath us. It was only 40 seconds of the experience (and I did not know what we were getting into when stepping in line) and because of WonderBOY’s history, I was worried about trauma triggers during the whole thing…..but he was so moved by it, rightfully angered by it, and had so many questions – I knew it was worth it.

Just this week, he watched a movie in class about Dr. MLK Jr. and the Freedom Riders and I know he was 100% more engaged and curious, because he had this experience in his realm of knowledge in a variety of forms (music, physical touch, vision, physical, etc.).

WB loved this image so much, we bought a canvas for his room to always remember this visit.

So, long story short….if you’re ever in Atlanta, GA, I would HIGHLY recommend this tour. Even if you have children, even if they are “hard to please” teens and even if other tours or tourist attractions seem more flashy. It will be time WELL SPENT.

On our 3rd annual Team HB meeting

Posted on January 2, 2022 by Patti Hoelzle

Two years ago, we started this tradition of sitting down together as a family to review our year and have a casual conversation about what the next year had in store for us. This year, we reconvened our meeting and much to my surprise, there was minimal resistance from the Wonders and my husband.

Listing 22 things we wanted to accomplish year. It was fun to compare mine with Scott’s to see the overlap.

Per usual, the kiddos worked on some worksheets from Big Life Journal (I also like to use these at work with students and still on sale) to capture some of their thoughts.

Although this practice seems a little corny and REALLY feeds into the January “new year new me” hype that I’m not a big fan of, our family has been through some weird transitions this past year so this type of coming together and circling back up together was quite comforting to my Mama heart. Plus, it’s really fun to look back on past years’ work and see how much everyone has grown and changed.

And just because I like to be real and honest here, we also reviewed our family goals from last year and really sucked at all of them except for 8 family hikes….so we live, we learn – and maybe we needed more than just one year to get some of those things checked off our family bucket list.

On my favorite “gives”

Posted on December 26, 2021 by Patti Hoelzle

I love giving gifts that mean something to the receiver and honoring something from that particular point in time. I don’t always knock it out of the park and sometimes I just run out of time, but I was excited about a few things this particular Christmas.

Honoring a lost loved one:
The Wonders’ biological mother passed away a few years ago which resulted in some complicated grief for both of them in their own ways. I wanted to honor her memory in a way that both of them could access when desired and for years to come. We had saved letters that she had written to the kiddos when they were in foster care and she was working on getting them back. Although the entirety of the letter is not her handwriting, I knew the signature was and had that made into special bracelets for them.

The box included the bracelet, the original letter, and a laminated picture of her signature to keep all in one special spot.

Honoring a hard year(s):
Each year, our family members write letters to each other and those are the first things we open Christmas morning. I combined my love of photos with my new favorite song/anthem of the year (from my favorite new podcast of the year). Each time I heard this song, I would imagine what it would be like for each of my family members to TRULY believe the words and live their truth and best, healed lives moving forward and it got me each time. If you ever saw me singing in my car, it was most likely to this song at a high volume (or a 90’s hip hop playlist). Their “letters” included a special picture from this year, a card explaining the lyrics and a special laminated (can you tell I got a laminator for Christmas?) picture with the lyrics overplayed for them to display somewhere they might need it.

Stay tuned for another blog post with one more special present I gifted this year. What was your favorite that you watched someone unwrap with love this year?

On 9 years

Posted on August 11, 2021 by Patti Hoelzle

Getting married in our late 20s meant we had some stuff to work out in our early relationship. Some past patterns and hurts that showed up early and threatened our relationship in big ways….I am so glad those hurts stretched us, made us vulnerable, and got us into therapy because it built two individual humans strong enough to endure what was to come.

The last two years have included some dark and hard tunnels. And I respect and love this man for blindly walking through them with me hand in hand….without knowing when the light will come.