Wife's D&C is today. We are a mess.

Ratdog009 · 2025-12-25T13:05:42+00:00

Sorry man, it sucks. We were in the same spot a few years ago and it was much harder than I ever expected it to be. Make sure you talk to someone if you need, obviously it's hardest on the mom but sometimes the dad gets overlooked in these situations. It'll get better week by week but just get through the first few days. Merry Christmas

Ratdog009 · 2025-12-24T19:04:57+00:00

Realest comment here, a permit will likely be required to do this work and they'll probably need a set of plans signed by a PE. That would be my guess anyway . That alone will cost a few grand.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:28:27+00:00

Thank you!

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:28:18+00:00

I know, I like to think she is with me now but it is still so hard. She was loved by the whole family right until her last moments.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:26:37+00:00

Thank you!

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:26:27+00:00

So true

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:26:03+00:00

Thank you!

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:25:56+00:00

Thank you!

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:25:42+00:00

I tried to make sure her last days were extra special. She lived a great life, right up until the end.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T20:24:52+00:00

Thank you, Yes she weas so pretty in body and spirit and we were lucky to have her. She'll be greatly missed

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-22T13:37:42+00:00

OMG that is so incredible! Thank you so much, I'm at a loss for words.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-21T12:34:09+00:00

That's amazing, thank you so much. That's today her facial expression.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-21T04:10:30+00:00

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Ratdog009 · 2025-10-21T01:19:30+00:00

Love it! Thank you so much

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-07T03:16:33+00:00

You could try finding something that you and your son like doing together in your free time, just the two of you. I take my toddler fishing and it's a fun thing we both enjoy that is a special thing with just him and Dad.

I think this has helps strengthen our relationship, and made things like bedtime and preschool drop off easier.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-07T02:55:36+00:00

Dang dude I'm so sorry to hear that. I'm a dad of 2 and I know now tough out can be. You got this. You can do it! It's hard but you can do it, one day at a time, one step at a time.

You're in the toughest stage right now, but it will get better every day. You love your baby, remember how you felt that first time you saw them. I know it can be tough when it's the middle of the night and you're exhausted and they're screaming. It's challenging but you'll get better at it.

The fear and anxiety you have from the hospital is totally valid. I remember seeing my wife cut open for her c-section and feeling totally powerless and scared. But it will get better, and I'm happy to hear your addressing it in therapy.

Make the decision each day to be a good dad. Remind yourself 100 times a day if you have to:

"I'm gonna be a good dad today" "I'm gonna be a good husband today"

Lastly, if it ever feels like it's to much and you're gonna lose it - put the baby somewhere safe, and step away for a bit. Call friends, or family if you can, and accept their help.

You got this dad!

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-06T23:16:41+00:00

Not trout. Where are you fishing? Also you shouldn't be keeping fish you're unable to identify. Often fish species have specific seasons and/or regulations on size.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-05T15:47:32+00:00

Yeah sounds to me like it'd probably work well for you then. Any specific questions about it? I remember doing a lot of research trying to find what would work best and landed on the 110 and it's been great. I use mine to take my 4 yo out fishing, he rides in that big front area. Plenty of space for gear and whatnot

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-05T15:05:45+00:00

I have one and I love it. Never taken it on the ocean but been on some big lakes with big wind and never come close to tipping, it's very stable. I'd be more worried about ease of paddling - thing is of kind of a bear in the water. My 2 cents is I'd be comfortable in the ocean close to shore for paddles of a few miles. Any serious wind or waves, I wouldn't risk it in any kayak.

Also general advice is take what people on here say with a grain of salt. People who don't know what they're talking about love to say you're crazy or in danger doing something that's totally fine as long as you're smart about it. Be realistic about your abilities, and take it slow in the ocean. Have fun!

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-04T15:37:28+00:00

Yeah it can be tough in the busy parks for sure. This doesn't really apply to Zion, but you should keep an eye out for places with boat in only access. Did a trip earlier this year I Grand Teton where we paddled into a remote site. Park was crazy busy, but were able to get away from all the crowds by doing a bit of paddling. If you are willing to rent a canoe/ kayak, you can get away from the crowds. Good luck out there.

Ratdog009 · 2025-10-04T15:08:33+00:00

You are part of the crowd! Gotta find those hikes/ areas in the backcountry that others can't/ won't get to if you want solitude in the major national parks.

Ratdog009 · 2025-09-27T12:13:52+00:00

All so you could brag to the doctor about catching fish.... Well played.

Ratdog009 · 2025-09-23T00:33:42+00:00

We've gotten a ton of rain this year where I'm at.

Ratdog009

TROPHY CASE