A New Bird in the Nest

      If you’ve been around this blog for a while, you might remember “Mr. Chickadee” ~ my nickname for my now ex-husband, back when this space was mostly about little feet, diy, and homeschooling chaos.

      Well, time has flown, and my life looks a little different now. I’ve remarried to someone who stepped into this beautifully chaotic life of ours with an open heart and a solid sense of humor.

      And because this blog has always had a bit of a bird theme, it only felt right to give him a nickname too.

      So let me introduce you to: The Nighthawk

      Chickadees and nighthawks don’t usually share the same skies… they live by different rhythms. Chickadees are social and talkative, while nighthawks are quiet observers, most comfortable when the world slows down.

      But somehow, in our little flock, the contrast works. The chickadees and I flutter and chirp through the day, full of motion, chatter, and laughter… and then, after the last kid is finally tucked in, there’s this beautiful sliver of quiet we share. Just the two of us, exhaling in the stillness. Then, as I start to fade into the pile of pillows and blankets, The Nighthawk comes alive… editing photos, recording audiobooks, and settling into the hush of night where his creativity flourishes.

      He’s a photographer. A Mustang enthusiast. A father to a wonderful daughter of his own, who is very much the definition of a chickadee herself. And recently, he’s added voice actor to his list of talents… narrating audiobooks with a voice that makes you feel like you’re about to be swept into an epic fantasy.

      And here’s the kicker… when I told him about the nickname, he said his very first motorcycle was a Nighthawk. I had to chuckle… what are the chances? Feels like a little nudge from destiny, confirming that the name fits him just right.

      So from now on, when you see me mention The Nighthawk, you’ll know who I’m talking about: the guy learning to fly with a flock this size, who occasionally looks around like “how did I end up in a bird sanctuary,” but shows up with heart, grit, and love anyway… the man who chose a life with me and my seven chickadees… feathers, flurry, and all.

      From our noisy, love-filled flock,