Friday Things
1. Today would have been my dad’s 60th birthday. The photo above was taken when he was only 43, about two-and-a-half years before he passed away. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think about him, but he’s especially on my mind today. I love you Dad, and miss you. (Hope you liked your birthday cake! :))
2. Yesterday, my Chief Culinary Consultant and I went down to enjoy the Frozen Four festivities at Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh. If your’e not familiar, the Frozen Four is the hockey equivalent to basketball’s Final Four – it’s the NCAA’s championship tournament and Pittsburgh is the host city this year. We got to watch the semifinals yesterday and will be going back tomorrow night for the championship game. I was pretty indifferent about who I was rooting for until I found out a kid from Pittsburgh plays for Yale… since they won yesterday and are heading to the final, I’ll be rooting for them!
3. Last weekend, I decided to significantly cut down on my Diet Coke consumption. I’ve been reading way too many articles recently on the harmful effects of aspartame to ignore them any longer. After the first couple of days, I wasn’t really craving it any longer and I found that I was sleeping a lot better without the caffeine. I’m not saying that I’ll never have it again, but eliminating it from my everyday diet is a huge step.
4. This past week was our first round of spring thunderstorms. While they also delivered some crazy hail, I totally relished the rumbling thunder. I’ve missed spring and summer storms!
5. Have you heard of PieBox? The company crafts pie boxes made of raw pine that are perfect for transporting homemade pies. I love their rustic look! I’m definitely planning on purchasing at least one of these.
6. There are currently three sets of bald eagles that have nested in areas around Pittsburgh. One is only about 10 minutes from where I live; my Chief Culinary Consultant and I tried to scope out the nest in the hopes of seeing some soaring eagles, but unfortunately the eagles were MIA that day. I did snap a photo of their enormous nest with my zoom lens; hopefully on an upcoming sunny day we’ll catch a glimpse!
7. Do any of you ladies use a Clarisonic? I’ve seen them mentioned in so many places and I’m wondering if I should add one to my “beauty” arsenal. Thoughts?
8. My Chief Culinary Consultant and I have given some thought to getting Einstein a baby sibling (a furry sibling) once we’re settled into our house. Two is better than one, right?! We were hoping to maybe get a puppy from the same breeder where I got Einstein, but I found out that they are no longer breeding. If any of you in the Pittsburgh area (or surrounding areas) and have a recommendation, feel free to pass it along!
9. Speaking of Einstein, he’s a big fan of the sunshine we’ve been enjoying this week. He loves his sun spots!
10. TGIF! I hope you get to enjoy some sun this weekend!
On behalf of the Calorie Control Council and with experience as a Registered Dietitian, there is no evidence that the consumption of aspartame cause any negative health concerns. The amino acids that comprise aspartame are abundant in our diets, occurring naturally in fruits and vegetables and their juices. It is important to recognize the value of adding calorie free sweeteners, including aspartame. As obesity continues to rise, the use of aspartame in our food supply may provide more lower calorie beverage and food options. http://bit.ly/XqBLwP
Two furry siblings are definitely better than one! We have two German Shepherds and they are best friends. They keep each other company when we can’t. We purchased both of our dogs from breeders. Knowing what I know now, I wish I would have adopted. Good luck!
Can I just tell you that I love your weekly Friday things post. I come here every week. and PieBox is now on my list as a gluten free baker what a lovely idea!
happy blogging
the gluten free chef
Great job on the Diet Coke! Pop is one of the only foods I never allow myself to have because it’s so bad. Keep up the good work! I do have a Clarisonic and love it. It was one of those things I bought and was afraid it would sit collecting dust but I use it every day and can’t imagine not using it. It easily plows through all my makeup without tons or really any scrubbing. I highly recommend it!
Michelle, my heart goes out to you for the loss and (still) grief that you bear…I lost my mom the week before Thanksgiving, and my grandmother before Christmas… their birthdays, the holidays, and their “home-going” days are still very difficult. Cherish the memories in the midst of your tears, sweet one.
In regards to giving up diet beverages, that’s wonderful, but you need to take it a few steps farther. I was sick for years and on several medications when, in 2009, I found out about the effects of being over-acidic. Soft drinks, sports drinks, smart water, energy drinks…they’re all loaded with such high levels of acidity that our health is suffering, and we aren’t being told why by doctors or mainstream media. I’m off of five daily medications just because I stopped drinking all those things, and changed the water I drink to one that is alkaline and super-hydrating.
I wish you wellness and happiness and sweet memories!
Birthdays for a parent who left too soon are always hard. You have my sympathies and kind thoughts.
The pie box looks swell. I might just have to start baking pies just so I can own one!
As for Einstein and a possible sibling: I would encourage you to look at Golden Rescue organizations in your area. We have had 6 Goldens in a span of a 25 year marriage. They all came from rescue organizations or situations. Many dogs are given up for lots of reasons other than ‘behaviour problems’. Divorce, economic problems, new baby allergies, death in the family, etc. Rescue organizations usually know the personalities of their particular dogs quite well–they are usually in foster care so they are acclimated. Goldens are such sweet, sweet spirits. There is a reason they make such good therapy dogs! You wouldn’t regret getting a dog this way, believe me. We have two at the moment and got both when they were less than a year old from a Golden rescue here in Colorado. Two Goldens are always better than one!
I gave up Diet Coke for Lent in the hopes that would help me kick the habit. Maybe one every once in a while but not everyday. I had one with lunch today for the first time since before Lent and have to admit, it didn’t do much for me – it just didn’t taste nearly as good as it used to. Hoping I’ve finally gotten myself off the stuff!
I’ve had a Clarisonic for several years and use it everyday. It’s one of the best things I’ve spent money on.
Happy Birthday to your Dad! He sound like an awesome guy!
I have never heard of a pie box, but seriously! WOW, how cool. I want one!
My Dog Shoeburt loves his sun spots too! He must have an internal clock..every day around 11:00am he will sit by the door and bark. You think he wants to go out side…NOOO he wants that door open because there will be a HUGE sun spot…can you say spoiled!!! Shoeburt is a shitzu/yorkie mix!
The best beauty budget money I’ve ever spent was on my clarisonic… UN-BE-LIEV-ABLE!!! My skin has never been in better shape as it has since using it. I keep mine in the shower and use it several times a week… only have to charge it every couple of months. Word to the wise, though… take the head off and rinse it well after EVERY use!
Wow, first peanut butter for Lent and now soda! You are brave!! One of my good friends is trying to kick her Diet Dr. Pepper habit for similar reasons. I’m a Diet Pepsi girl…I just don’t see giving it up at this point though.
A kid from our town plays hockey for St. Cloud State (http://www.scsuhuskies.com/roster.aspx?rp_id=96), so you probably saw him play! My hubby works with his dad.
Love my Clarisonic!! I have a Mia2 and it has completely changed my skin. It’s definitely not perfect, but it is brighter, pores are noticeably smaller, less dry patches, & fewer random blemishes. Also, my face just feels so much better. I pair mine with Philosophy’s Purity, and I can’t recommend it enough!
I have the Clarisonic MIA and it’s a godsend! Great little tool for your beauty arsenal. Another furry friend for Einstein sounds like a great idea! I have to jump on the wagon of folks against breeders though. We got the most loving, smart, sweet pup from a shelter last summer and it was a great feeling to help an animal in need. Just give it some thought! ;)
You got to watch my alma mater play in their first ever Frozen Four – jealous! I went to college at St. Cloud State and it’s where I learned about hockey. Sadly they lost, but it’s awesome they made it that far!
I’ve been thinking about getting a Clarisonic for awhile now too. I just can’t seem to make up my mind! I’m nervous about my sensitive skin and they’re not super cheap, but I’ve read so many great comments I might have to go get one now!
You should definitely try it… even with sensitive skin. Just be sure to use the “Sensitive” head and start slow. Start with a minute once a week and work up from there. If it doesn’t work for you, return it. Love money back guarantees!
New commenter here — I couldn’t help but comment after seeing all of your Pittsburgh references in this post :) I run along the riverfront trail with the eagle nests and have still yet to see them… I’m on the lookout too! My husband and I moved to Pittsburgh a year ago with our golden furbaby — I’ve been casually dreaming of getting another golden pup recently as well… perhaps when we actually have a lawn/backyard! One 85-pound bundle of (crazy shedding) love is enough for an apartment, me thinks :)
Get the cheaper clarisonic “mia”. I love mine and have had it for a couple of years. i
I love my Mia 2 – highly recommend it. I started out with the Olay ProX scrubber first (which worked great) then upgraded to the Mia 2 after a few months. You can get some pretty good deals on Mia 1 and 2 on Amazon.
We rescued a second, younger, dog after having our first rescue for a few years. She bonded more with our first dog than with us at first, but after a few weeks she warmed up to us as well. Both are females and we’ve never had any issues. The younger dog totally defers to the older one and they both get along great. Even now that they are 11 and 14 years old. I highly recommend a second but take your time and make sure Einstein is fully involved in the adoption/rescue process :)
Good luck!
Hi! Love the blog and Happy Birthday to your Dad! I hope today is filled with happy memories of the times you spent together.
I second everyone else’s opinion on where to get the dog if you do choose to get another one but before getting one I would strongly consider the reasons you want one and how Einstein will feel about it. As a dog walker, I’ve seen a lot of situations where for whatever reason people choose to add a second dog to their already well-established one dog household and it doesn’t go over all that well. It can really change the dynamic in the relationship you and the existing dog have. I’m sure you wouldn’t be considering it if you thought Einstein would hate it but I would just urge you to really take time to think it through and consider what you want out of a second dog that you couldn’t get from the one you already have. Some two dog situations work out great, I’d just say to think it through first from all angles.
Two dogs are definitely better than one. We debated about getting a second dog for several months, but now we are so glad we did! However, please check your local shelters first! Yes, sometimes shelter dogs can be a bit more difficult, but it’s so worth it! Einstein will get a friend, a sweet, deserving pup will get a forever home, and you’ll be saving a life!
I stopped drinking diet soda two years ago. I do still have 1 a week or so. But that’s way better than the 3 or 4 a day I was used to. Now when I have one it tastes really good at first but after a few sips I don’t enjoy it as much. I feel better too. I used to get heartburn a lot. I don’t get it as often now.
I bought a Clarisonic in January after looking at them for over a year. I was really worried about the price. What if I spent all that money and didn’t like it. I have seen a difference. I think it’s a slow process though. But if I miss a night I notice it the next day. So I do think it was worth getting. I do think they are overpriced though.
I love seeing Einstein. He is so sweet. I’ve never had more than one dog but I think it would be great. Can’t wait to see the new puppy.
I lost my own dad at 55, it was far too soon for both yours and mine, and yours was a doll! My sympathies, no matter how long ago, it’s still your dad and still a terrible loss!
I cut out Diet Coke (and Diet Cherry Coke, which I loved) almost five years ago… it was hard at first but I don’t miss them at all today, and feel I’ve been better off for doing so. I still enjoy a drink of something when “out” but only rarely.
I’m all for shelter dogs, we’ve had five!
Please adopt a shelter dog. All they want and need is a loving, forever home.
Congratualations on stopping diet coke….i just did the same thing in November…it was tough but i have been drinking unsweetened tea and bubbly water. Also, i have lost at least 5 lbs…without changing anything else.
So i agree, i have read all of the bad things as well, and finally made the choice! Good luck!!!
I kicked the Diet Coke habit about 4 years ago, I don’t miss it at all during the week and I don’t keep any in the house. Instead, I might have one on occasion when we go out to eat. Way to go!
YES, the Clarisonic is great. You can keep it in the shower and the battery lasts a long time. I love my Mia!!
I totally agree on getting a rescue or shelter dog. We adopted ours 4 years ago and she is absolutely amazing. We saved her and gave the shelter room to take another dog, there is no better feeling. Too many dogs are still killed, it’s heartbreaking. Petfinder.com is a great place to start as well as breed specific rescue groups. Happy Friday!
I cut Diet Coke out of my diet over Christmas this year. I do still allow myself 1 regular Coke with my lunch each day. I figure the full calories also stop me from drinking as much pop in general as I would when it was “diet”
Way to go with the diet coke!
And I am all for an Einstein sibling! Maybe go for a rescue…they have so much love to give!
Love those pie boxes! Now I need to find the “perfect” pie recipe!!
I love how you honor and remember your dad every year, it is really sweet!
xoxo M
I’d love to see a Frozen Four game one day. It would be pretty cool to see some hockey stars before they’re famous.
The Clarisonic is a beauty must! But be warned – breakouts are common for the first month of use! Totally worth it in the end though!
Your dad left this world far too young…I’m sorry. Have a great time celebrating his birthday and remembering him even more today! The pie boxes look so delicious and rustic, as you said. I’d love to try one! I never heard of the Frozen Four….probably because I’ve never been into hockey that much. Thanks for enlightening me!
Long time reader, first time commenter – just had to chime in and say the Clarisonic is amazing! I’m 35, so I want to take good care of my skin as I get older – the Clarisonic (along with daily sunscreen) are my go-to items.
Einstein is a handsome boy! Multiple pets are definitely fun. I’ve taken in 3 stray cats over the past couple of years and they (mostly) get a along and each have different personalites. It’s fun to wach them play and interact. Hopefuly it will work out for Einstein to have a little brother or sister. :-)
I love my Clarisonic. I started to break out once I hit 30 and tried so many skin products with very little luck until I got a Clarisonic. It took a few months but my skin is now back to normal. Best money I have ever spent!
We also have two dogs and I think it’s great since they occupy each other’s time and keep each other company when we’re not home.
Sooooo, can we call him the FIANCE’ now instead of CCC <3 ;) I mean… it's endearing AND less words LOL
We used to watch some eagles in our area and usually you can catch a glimpse of them returning every evening at dusk soaring across a lake, sometimes with fish in their talons. They go out and hunt during the day so you might not see them very early in the day. Very exciting watching that huge wing span skim the water.
Einstein looks like a terrific golden, I can see why you would want a relative of his. My golden came from a bad breeder and had many problems. She was a really good dog, but died too young from her complications. Have fun searching for your new family member!
I think getting Einstein a furry friend is a great idea! I have two golden boys and they are best friends! It took our older boy a bit to get used to sharing his toys and the attention but when I go to work I like that he has his brother to play with. I know everyone who has previously commented has said to adopt but there is a lot to be said about getting a new puppy. I got my second golden from Joygin Kennel in the Somerset, PA area. She usually only breeds once or twice a year and I have not regretted my purchase. Also her prices are very reasonable.
Also beware two golden retrievers results in copious amounts of fur everywhere!!!!!!!
You CAN adopt a brand new puppy from a rescue. Many rescues have puppies as young as 8 weeks old up for adoption from pregnant mothers they have taken in.
Agreed! We adopted our puppy at 8 weeks and have not looked back…just something to look into with rescue organizations in your area :)
Agreed! Do not purchase a dog from a breeder, this has to stop so shelters and rescues can find some relief!
Sweet tribute to your dad! I know how you feel — I miss mine too!
YES get another dog. We got 2 dogs a while back, now I will always have 2 dogs. Happy Birthday to your dad. I lost my dad recently, I never thought to bake him a cake. What a nice tribute. I will be doing this when his birthday comes around.
There are several Golden Retriever Rescues in PA. Many times the Golden rescue organizatons have puppies that are full breed Goldens. I at one time considered bringing a full bred Golden puppy into our family but when I began reading about how many abandoned puppies and dogs there are in the US, I was horrified. I began researching on http://www.petfinders.com and we found a perfect 1/2 Golden / 1/2 Lab from a N. CA rescue organization. He is now a trained Therapy Dog, working to put a smile on VA, hospice and hospital patients faces. He has been a perfect baby for us! Below is a list of Golden Retriever Rescue organizations in PA.
PENNSYLVANIA
Autumn Valley Golden Retriever Rescue
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue, Inc. (DVGRR)
Golden Retriever Adoptions, Placement and Education (GRAPE)
Golden Retriever Rescue of Central Pennsylvania, Inc. (GRRCP)
With A Golden Spirit (WAGS)
GRREAT, Inc
I have a pie box and it’s really awesome! I was always complaining about how hard pies are to transport and my husband surprised me with one. Scoutmob sells them for a little less and I have a free shipping code somewhere that will save you even more. http://scoutmob.com/chicago/piebox/piebox
1. Please adopt a dog! There are so many amazing shelters and rescues that can help you find the right fit for you, CCC and Einstein.
2. My Clarisonic changed my skin. It’s not perfect, but I no longer have issues with dry, flaky skin (so gross!). My moisturizer is absorbed better, and I have fewer break outs. Plus, it removes any last makeup that my makeup removers misses. I would go with the Mia or basic model, FYI. I was sold the one that also can do the body, and I don’t use that feature often.
Good morning, I have had a clarisonic for years and love it. I too have pretty sensitive skin (I have psorasis) but it works well. I got it because when I exercise I used to get those little zit bumps on my forehead and the clarisonic really seemed to help clear those up. I think it prevents big bores too.
I too will encourage you to go to a rescue site. Many even have puppys since people think how great a puppy will be but then don’t have the time, energy or patience to train them and give up a month or three into it. Every furry creature should get a good chance at a loving home and from following your site for a while it looks like you would provide an amazing option for a poor little furry boy or girl. Good luck with the adoption. What a wonderful way to grow a furry family.
I just love seeing pictures of your little guy. As has already been said by many, please do consider adopting a rescue. I promise you will not be sorry, as these dogs are eternally grateful for a second chance and you’ll feel so good about yourself for giving them that chance. Totally a win-win.
Happy Birthday to your dad. I just know he’s watching over you and pleased as can be about his cake.
I’m sorry about for your loss of your Dad, no matter how many years it has been, it’s always so hard. Happy Birthday to him!!!
Awesome job for kicking the Diet Coke habit!! I was a HUGE Diet Coke drinker for years and about 4 years ago I stopped cold turkey. I replaced it with 0 calorie tea, then switched to water! I feel so much better about myself now!
Einstein is simply adorable! Now that your getting a new home, you can get Einstein a friend!
Please, as some others have said adopt a dog! You can find breed specific rescues in every state! One of my friends runs a rescue that she started 3 years ago and they have already saved over 800 dogs. They have rescued some from very bad conditions, abd without people adopting, they run out of room to save more! Its so important to adopt. There are great dogs out there!
Please don’t go to a breeder! The link I’m posting is to find golden retriever rescue groups in your area. Please peruse it.
http://adopt-a-golden-retriever.adoptapet.com/
It is so obvious to see that your dad was a beautiful soul…
I know he must be smiling down on you everyday.
Ditto the other ladies on the Clarisonic!! I held off purchasing
because of the price tag, but they are worth every penny. Do get
the full size with the body brush attachment. I also have sensitive skin so I
use mine every other day.
Love your blog… Keep up the great work!
Please adopt from a shelter, you could save a life :)
Loving that sweet boy :)
Happy birthday to your dad :)
I’ve had a Clarisonic for a couple years now and have never used it because I have sensitive skin and am scared! I need to just do it (maybe tonight since I have 3 days off, just in case…) because i’ve heard awesome things! Including the comments on this post!
Sues, I have super sensitive skin but I adore my Clarisonic! If you’re worried, start with the head that they make for sensitive skin – its bristles are gentler than the others. It might take a few tries to get used to, but it’s totally worth it!
What a wonderful tribute to your dad. I am certain he did love his birthday cake, and is smiling everyday at the talented and successful daughter you are!
I ditto Mary! Get a Clairsonic yesterday! I have had one for years and would hate to have to give it up. I have even given them as gifts. My only regret is that it is a little bulky to pack for longer trips. I keep mine in the shower and use it everyday. It is like a getting a facial daily and you will love the look and feel of your skin. You will never regret it!
1. so sorry about your dad. I ,too lost my dad at an early age. only a year after losing my mom. life is never the same. I understand your loss.
2. soda should be reserved only for special occasions, if at all. it is a horrible beverage, especially for women. the components can leach calcium out of our bones leading to osteoporosis. drink carbonated water, flavored water, lemon water or tea instead!! I have no idea why the osteoporosis link is not addressed in the mainstream media. I guess osteoporosis is not a health issue confronting the nation ,yet.
3. run, do not walk to get a clarisonic!! my only regret is buying the mia and not the full blown version with a body handle!! it will take a week or so to get used to it. I use mine everyday. love it!!
PLEASE DON’T BUY DOGS FROM BREEDERS! There are so many rescue groups in the Pittsburgh area (and all over the country) that rescue purebred dogs! Over 10,000 animals are killed in animal shelters across the US EVERY DAY. Please don’t be the person who supports people making a profit from “purebred” dogs while puppies, dogs, kittens, and cats (including purebreds) are killed every day. I can connect you with a rescue group for whatever kind of dog you’d like to get!
I was going to post almost the exact same thing!
Please don’t buy a dog when thousands are getting killed. I’ll research rescues and shelters in your area for you if you want!
AMEN!
I have never commented before, but came here to post the exact same thing!! Even small, family breeders are not okay! You can get practically ANY dog you want (breed, age, color) from a rescue organization! Especially if you are looking for a lab or golden.
Please consider adopting a dog and not purchasing one from a breeder. I’m happy to hear that Einstein’s breeders are no longer in business– we need to work hard to stop breeding and start rescuing.
Can’t believe I forgot to mention Craigslist! We got our purebred German Shepherd off of the Pets section for free. The people who had her just wanted her to go to a good home!
This. So many times this! I was going to post the same thing. Please look into rescues! Also, you don’t have to look just in your area. Check Petfinder for dogs across the country. There are many transport organizations full of people who volunteer their time and gas to get adopted dogs to their new and perfect forever homes. Kindred Hearts Transport Connection is one of those. Just to keep your options open! :)
Not that it hasn’t been said, but there are so. many. dogs. to. adopt. We adopted our golden retriever/black lab as a pup and he has been a fantastic dog. When our golden/black lab started to get old and our work schedules changed, we adopted a pug/beagle to keep our old man company. I won’t lie, it was an adjustment to have two dogs with such wickedly different personalities. But now they are a bonded pair and we couldn’t imagine our life without them both – I imagine, they enjoy their lives together as well. I think we will try to always have some form of black lab/golden retriever dog in our home so I get that part they are GREAT dogs, but if you can adopt. . . it feels really good to do so. We adopted an older dog (the pug/beagle) and there is that moment where they look at you and you know that they finally fully trust you and have decided that they are home. Our adopted dog now does a FULL BODY waggle when we come home – more than a tail wag. It melts your heart, just like a puppy does.
Piebox. That is awesome. Last week in my Fri Things I posted about a retro-chic pie carrier that I’m swooning over. And now the pie box. As if I make that many pies…or transport them. lol
Congrats on the Diet Coke situation. I recently did a 3 day juice cleanse and the coffee withdrawals were epic. But since then…I’ve hardly had any coffee and overall, feel sooo much better being off it!