It takes two to make things go right...It takes two to make it outtta sight.

When MC Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock coined these ridiculously insightful lyrics back in 1988, in addition to partying, wanting to rock right now, and wanting to get down (even if you're not internationally known), I have a feeling they didn't realize how perfectly they also apply to DIY couples. Nearly 10 years ago Wendy and I decided to take on our renovation, and through each step, we have been there to help and support the each other. Though always aware of the assistance we offer in our partnership, I am never more reminded of how important my partner in crime is to progress on our house (and life in general) than when she's out of town for a little while.

Wendy's been out of town for work since last Friday morning and I've been manning the ship since then. As much as I miss her while she's gone, this isn't a new thing around these parts. Wendy's job periodically takes her out of town a few times a year for a couple of days each time, and at least once a year for one full week. Last year it occurred in mid August, which is when I had a series of blog entries that I called the "Week of Alex." These posts all centered around the mundane life I lead while Wendy is out of town and I'm basking in struggling through single life. Looking back on last year I realized that it was actually a pretty eventful week. A baseball game, vestibule progress, a major earthquake, and some new shoes, man, I was busy. 

I feel like this year is a little different than last. Beyond normal house chores and upkeep, my DIY to-do list seems like it's a mile long, I'm working endlessly on a major year long project for work that wraps up in the next week, and the Nationals are in first place and I feel obligated as a super fan to watch every night! Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining in the least bit about any of these things (especially because they primarily mean things are going really well), I'm just running down the list of everything I've got on my plate and wondering aloud how I might have time for it all. I'm also well aware this isn't half as much as many/most people have going on at any given time, and many never have the support of a partner in their endeavors, married or not.

When Wendy is home, life is so much easier. We make a great team and we each have our strengths that make the wheels go round. Cooking, cleaning, chores, errands, housework, we each have responsibilities and we each assist the other. If I need to work on the house more than usual, Wendy will often pick up a task or two so I can do what needs to be done without worry about the other stuff. Or if Wendy is working on a DIY project and I need to help out or take care of a few extra things, no problem. But when I'm home and am acting as a single parent to our four legged kids, I'm a one man show, and there's just about as much to do as when Wendy is around.

Well, there's no rest for the wicked, so Lulu, Mel, and I kicked off our solo Saturday with a little celebration. July 21 was Lulu's 3rd birthday, and I know Wendy was very sad she wouldn't be able to celebrate with us, but it just meant I had to do the celebrating for the both of us. 

I kicked off the day with a nice rendition of "Happy Birthday" and then I took advantage of the cool weather and break in rain to go for a short little run with my wrinkle faced friend. After our run, Lulu had some of here favorite things for breakfast...lettuce and blueberries (along with her normal food). She has some weird tastes for a dog, but I really like that about her.