This and That

Well, after 8 long days of single dog-parenting, Mike is home! He got back from France late last night and one little lady stole all the attention!

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz......

This little girl was making 100% sure that she got enough space to spread out her long legs and snuggle up with her Papa. In other words... leave us alone, Mama.  I found myself teetering on the edge of the mattress with my side wedged in between the space where the mattress pad ends and the mattress continues slightly. Add the occasional large paw-to-face smack by a dreaming dog and you've got one rough night's sleep.  Alas, we're both glad the Papa is home and looking forward to hearing all about France later today.  Until that time, I'll put $ on finding them in this exact position when I get home (at 4pm!).

Lately I've found myself having so many fleeting ideas about blogging. I'll think of something that strikes me funny and make a mental note, supposedly, and then I sit down at my computer and poooof... it's gone.  Sigh.

Right now I have a running stream of consciousness that I need to unload. Ready?  Here goes... in bullet format:

• Lately I'm really into brewing my coffee at home with the new Starbucks Blonde Veranda and then making one to-go cup and filling my awesome thermos from EMS with another cup.  Can you believe this thermos keeps my coffee warm, sometimes, until later that night. EMS rocks.
• I'm so over hearing all of the negative campaign mumbo-jumbo on the news and NPR every day.  If we could put half as much energy into working together, we'd be back on top as the world's super power.  This morning I actually heard someone likening Obama to Hitler and Stalin. Seriously!?!?  Statements like that are unbelievable to me and I think they are tearing us further apart rather than rallying anyone around any time of change.
• I picked 6 ticks off of my dog in one day this week.  After that, I make her walk on the sidewalk because ticks freak me out.  Poor Darcy.
• I have a strong desire lately to organize things in buckets and bins.  I actually spent a few minutes last night sitting on the kitchen floor fantasizing about what type of organizer I could buy at IKEA for our Tupperware/baggies/foil/saran wrap in the cabinet.
• I cleaned the refrigerator out... it felt good. 
• A lot of times when I'm shopping, say at Target, or TJ Max, or wherever, I see so many things I want to buy and send to my friends. Things that either remind me of them or might be something they've mentioned liking or needing. Friends- I do wish I could send you all of the things I imaginarily purchse for you when I'm shopping.
• I'm getting a new cell phone... yep. It's time. I'm thinking Samsung Galaxy... what are you thoughts/reviews?  I'm not an i-anything kind of person, so iPhone is o-u-t.  I even talked sweet Susie Q (that's my Mama) into getting a new fancy phone too.
• I need to get the Farmer's Market back in my life.
• I'm going back on Paleo as close to 100% as I can while still having my weekly cupcake from Taste and See. 

Ok. That was satisfying.  I hope you have a wonderful weekend! 

Much love,
Whitney

Taking matters into my own hands

Happy Spring (again!),

I keep waiting for the official 60+ weather to stay around but it's like a teasing, taunting trick with it's coming and going the last few weeks.  I'm over jacket season and ready for sun dresses, people.

Last weekend, in an effort to fully take advantage of Good Friday and the Easter weekend, Mike and I took Darcy the wonder pup up the the Appalachian Trail in NW Connecticut for a day of hiking and playtime.  She loved it, and despite my worries, Mike let Darcy off the leash and she did fine... until the horses came. And then she did NOT do fine. She went ballistic and tried to go after a horse, which thankfully was very well trained and did not rear up nor throw it's rider. Whew! I was sweatin' that one out.  But none of that is why I'm writing.

Following the hike and near dog-on-horse bar fight, Mike and I treated ourselves to some food and drinks at the GW Tavern http://www.gwtavern.com/. Yes, all of our adventures now revolve around the singular historical thing we can do while we're there- wherever there is. Sigh. I don't *heart* history that much.

Still not the reason for my story though.  Upon doing a quick change and tick check in the truck, in the GW Tavern parking lot, I noticed something. Something bad. Something unexpected and previously unseen.  It snuck up on me out of nowhere. I was blindsided...

A HUGE patch of grey hair had sprouted on my head overnight without me knowing. (Yes, I believe it was overnight because otherwise I could have handled it sooner).  How had this happened? Maybe while gardening I accidentally ingested some of the miracle grow myself, causing rapid growth of grey hair patches... you know, like flower patches or cabbage patches?

On the way home from the trip I made Mike take me to Target so that I could take matters into my own hands. *Disclaimer to all of my stylist friends... I'm sorry for what you're about to read*  I bought John Frieda box hair color and I immediately went home to color my own hair.  There it is. I said it.  I box colored my own hair a nice shade of brown and if I'm honest, I really like it.  And, it's kind of fun being a brunette and mixing it up with colors I don't usually wear with my lighter colored hair. 

So that's it!  That's my story. And I don't feel bad about it... at least for now since my hair is still OK and attached to my head. I will issue a full apology to said stylist friends if my hair meets with disaster in the near future. I promise.

Happy Wednesday, peoples.

xo,
whit

Guilty Pleasure...

It's treat yourself, Tuesday!  I've got to keep it short and sweet today.  I've been thinking alot lately about small things I do to treat myself, and other guilty pleasures or treats I can do without. 

I think it's really important to give back to yourself on occasion and to be sure you're taking time out to recharge and refresh.  Otherwise life becomes mundane and you lose a little of the sparkle.

So for me, as corny as it sounds, (and Mike judges me for it always) I really enjoy Saturday morning and Sunday evenings watching The Real Housewives of (insert city name here) and The Shahs of Sunset on BRAVO Channel.  I know. How unathletic and sad that I'm so entertained and refreshed by a TV show(s), but I have to tell you, when I can't possibly think any more, or solve another problem, or have one more converstion, I tune in to channel #44 and watch the trainwreck that is reality tv. 

My favorite is Real Housewives of Orange County, followed by RHWO Beverly Hills, and then Shahs of Sunset.  Bravo plays episodes back-to-back-to-back on Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoon/evenings before the new ones come out.  If Mike is still sleeping, I sneak downstairs, brew some coffee, and giddily watch until he wakes up and resumes control of the remote to watch the History channel (Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz).

I can live without evening TV during the week. I'd rather be cooking or reading or walking the dog.  I can also live without Easter candy, potato chips, and full sugar ginger ale, too.  But, BRAVO?  Nope, it's a must have guilty pleasure.

What's your guilty pleasure?

*oh yea, and how cute is this face:

yours in RHW love,
whit

Nice little Saturday planned...

"Well, um, actually a pretty nice little Saturday, we're going to go to Home Depot. Yeah, buy some wallpaper, maybe get some flooring, stuff like that. Maybe Bed, Bath, & Beyond, I don't know, I don't know if we'll have enough time." (Old School, 2003)
*****************************************************************************
I feel like I've been lost in a land of uncreative thinking the last few weeks. I haven't had much time to blog or do anything for me.  But, that's-a-changing this weekend, friends! 

Now that the CrossFit Opens are finished, I can start back to weekends of relaxation and fun.  It's not that the games weren't fun, but they were also nerve wracking and I put a lot of pressure on myself. 


Credit: Aaron Poach Photography, LLC (or something like that)


I even won myself a foot injury which I'm now nursing and dealing with.  Sigh.  That's not what this post is about, though.

This weekend, namely tomorrow, is going to be awesome!  And, when we wake up and start the day, I'm hoping Mike will still want to do these things...

Kicking if off with the 9am WOD at www.crossfitnewhaven.com with my gym homies



Then... home to grab Mike and Darcy the wonder pup for.... drumrollllll.....

The PEZ Visitor's Center (I know it's dorky, but I really want to see them making the Pez's and learn more about this hidden CT gem whose candies I love)  www.pez.com/visit_us or http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/12/prweb9058886.htm for some awesome pics

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/12/prweb9058886.htm

Then....  it's Westport for some Lululemon, dog walking, and

Shake Shack www.shakeshack.com for some good old fashioned burgers and fries.  And, the best part is that they actually have a dog menu, here, so that the little Goat Dog can get some grub too. Look at the bottom for the pup treats. 

Photo: Paul Schott / Westport News

And then, I'm going to be it will be nap time.  And then, then, if all goes well, a pajama-jammy-jam in New Haven with some wonderful and talented ladies.

What are you doing this weekend???????

yours in reclaiming the fun,
whit

Spring Sprang

Spring Sprang... see for yourself:

I sure hope she stays a while.

yours in spring fever,
whit

A new spin on some old faves

For the past two weeks, I've had the privilege of being part of an elite group of women chefs who spend one evening a week training a new chef in the ways of paleo cooking.  All the while, swapping recipes, taste testing our specialties, and laughing at ourselves.  Yep, I'm part of the CFNH (Crossfit New Haven) Cooking WOD group. 

And, last night we had a ball!  Our team leader and Mama Bear, Barb, created this site, http://cfnhcookingwod.tumblr.com/, to help us keep track of our recipes for each week.  Last night the theme was Cauliflower (and other things).  I'll bet you never knew you could make such healthy versions of some of your old favorites.  Check it out:

A new spin on PIZZA


Paleo/GlutenFree Cauliflower Pizza Crust



Primal/GlutenFree Pizza on the crust! (Primal due to cheese)



  



The newly named 'CFNH SisterWives' or 'Chefs'


A healthy Fried 'Rice'


Cauliflower Fried Rice- totally paleo and gluten free! (no actual rice necessary)

 And my favorite recipe of the night, Zucchini Latkes


Zucchini latkes (pancakes) in coconut oil

 


Because it helps if you dance to the latkes to get them to brown faster

 



Finished product... so good!


So check out our site and follow along as we try out new recipes and teach our sweet peach how to cook!

***Apologies for the formatting issues... not sure what happened here.

Yours in a food coma (in the best way),
whit

Treat Yourself... you should go Blonde!

Happy Treat Yourself, Tuesday! 

Now I've never been Starbucks #1 fan.  In a pinch, or with a group of 'Starbs Lovers' I'll stop in for a coffee or a latte, but it's never been my first choice.  Me, I'm a fan of my locals. You remember my beloved Nica's coffee line incident, right?  So when I have the choice, I'd rather go to my local coffee shop or deli and mix my coffee getting with a little neighborhood social interaction.

BUT, times, they are a changing. Starbucks (conveniently located next to my spinning gym) has introduced the Blonde Roast.  Burnt, smelly, bitter brunette coffee beware! The Blondes are moving in!  There are two versions of the Blonde roast- the Veranda and the Willow.  I have a slight preference for Veranda over Willow, but I drink coffee with a touch of cream so I'm not sure if Willow might be better as a black coffee. 

Either way, these two roasts blow the old Pike's Place and other Starbs blends out of the water.  I always, always find the other blends to taste burnt, old, and extremely bitter, whereas the Blondes are both really smooth, fresh tasting. 

Check them out here: http://www.starbucks.com/coffee/blonde 



We now buy a pound of this blend each week to brew at home... but have no fear, favorite locals; I still come to you for my additional cups each day!

happy tasting,
whit

SERIOUSLY?!?!?

I have one little paleo cooking party, we produce a moderate amount of garbage, we give doggy treats for good behavior, and this is what the Goat Dog does to show appreciation while we're at work all day...

Someone's in T-R-O-U-B-L-E!

Poor Mike had to come home to this today instead of a peaceful, sleeping pup. I think Darcy is definitely in the doghouse!

sigh.

Goat Dog strikes back!

Happy Monday!

Last week, Darcy, the Goat Dog, struck again, again. She ate my favorite LL Bean furry flip flop (just one!), a Victoria's Secret bra (destroyed!!!), my M.A.C foundation brush ($35!), more pizza, a bag of brussel sprouts (I don't like to refrigerate fresh produce), and she made attempts on many more items!  Why my stuff?  Do you think she even sniffed twice at Mike's stuff?  Nope!  But, alas, I knew this was a possibility and so I have learned my lesson. All doors locked during day, make-up put away in back of drawer, no food on counters, and pray for everything to be in one piece when I get home.

But, after a challenging week of chewing, Darcy had a wonderful day with some new friends during a long hike up West Rock in New Haven. 



Tanna (left), Darcy, and Scooter (right) on the run (Thanks Ashley for the pic)


It was awesome to see Darcy follow the lead of Tanna and Scooter as we let her off the leash for the first time. The other dogs trained her (mostly) in terms of how far she could wander, and what appropriate play is. Mike and I were so happy to see her have so much fun and finally connect with other dogs without being intimidated or aggressive. And Tanna and Scooter... well, they're just awesome pups and so well behaved. It gives me hope that Darcy will eventually be fully trained.  *And would you get a load of those ears?!?!

Following the hike, the pups each had their very own pupcake from Taste&See in Milford.  They loved it!

Dad, can I please have my pupcake?

Look who's sitting nicely and who needs a little more work :)

With all of the terrible storms and damage that struck much of the country this weekend, I am thankful for a lovely day of play and the blessings of a sweet girl who loves us despite her hound dog sensibilities.

How was your weekend?

Keeping it simple... keeping it real

Hello Friends!

Today, I'm going to write with my 'Southern' hat on.  I experienced something this weekend when we were dining in Newport that I can't shake.  So naturally, I need to write about it to get it out of my head and into yours.

To begin, I need to make a few sweeping general statements:
1) We live in the United States (by 'we' I mean me and most of you)
2) I come from the Gulf Coast of Florida, raised by fine Southern folk, so I know thing or two about what's going to be shared.
3)  I am not impressed by restaurants or people who attempt to fancify (is that a word?) southern cooking into something it isn't. 

So let's get to it... Shrimp and Grits are THE SAME THING as Prawns and Polenta.  I'm not talking about dishes, I'm talking about actual little shrimps and actual corn grits.  We do not live in Australia or Spain, and unless a restaurant or cuisine is specifically themed so, I feel that the more commonly used words here in the old U. S. of A are shrimp and grits.

I did a simple Google Images search and got the following:

GRITS

POLENTA

SHRIMP

PRAWNS

I'd love to know if you can spot any noticeable differences in the above pictures that would help you determine one from the other.  I'm guessing NO.

Now for my Low Country friends, you know a thing or two about a proper bowl of Shrimp n' Grits... this just isn't two random ingredients thrown together hap hazzardly.  This is an amazing combination of flavors and texture that comes together as an explosion of goodness in your mouth.  It's also a very commonly understood phrase in the South.  You'll see Shrimp n' Grits on many a menu or in many a Mema's or Nana's kitchen.  This dish is a staple for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

That said, I feel that in other regions of the country, folks try to turn this low country (if you don't know what low country means, click here) favorite into some high class, over priced, fine-dining entree by calling the shrimp "Prawns" and the grits "Polenta".  Now I know that in Spain, it's really called polenta and that there is actually a slight difference in the particular corn grain used between grits and polenta.  BUT- these names shouldn't be swapped out just to sound more sophisticated or worldly.

You can imagine my dismay when I sat at a restaurant in Newport this weekend, one we LOVE and visit often, and as I scanned the menu I saw "Shrimp and Polenta."  What the... seriously?  Don't try to church it up by substituting polenta for grits.  If you want to try your hand at a southern dish... you darn well better keep the Southern in it!

OK. I feel better now. I have a feeling that some proper shrimp n' grits will be happening in my home in the very near future.

Yours in southern pride,
Whitney

Hear ye, hear ye... I have excellent news!

It's official... I can finally spill the beans and share my excitement! It's been so hard to keep this one quiet.

I'm going to be an AUNT!!!!!

My brother and his lovely wife will be welcoming a sweet baby into their lives, and into ours as well, in October.  I couldn't be happier for them as they begin this most wonderful next step in their life together.

And, I can not wait to be an Aunt to the new little bambino, whom I will spoil and splurge on simply because I can.  I will probably buy shirts and bibs that have tacky sayings about Aunts on them, and I will demand (gently of course) to have Auntie/Baby skype sessions where I can read stories and make funny noises.  I will send care packages of singing baby toys and squeeky things that will annoy Mom and Dad (sorry!) but baby will swoon over.

But, most of all, I can't wait to see my little brother (who is really not so little) be a Dad.  Evan and Alexis make such a great team that I can only imagine how that will translate into being parents.  It will be so sweet to watch them love and teach a new little person, and to grow as a family.

Yours in baby love,
Aunt Whitney

Today is the day

Friends,

Today is the day I both long for and dread all year.  Today, the CrossFit Opens Competition begins.  It's a five week global competition in which CrossFit athletes compete each week as they work toward an invitation to the Regional competition in their state/country.

Tonight at 8pm the first WOD of the competition will be announced and I'm nervous.  Like a combination of butterflies in your stomach before a first date and the gut wrenching feeling of desperation and despair.  Lovely, right?

But before that, I am asking you all to watch this video of my gym, CrossFit New Haven, as we participated in a competition called Barbells for Boobs last October.  The competition was to raise awareness and access for early breast cancer detection and mammograms.  Our gym raised over $6,000 and had a BLAST!  PS- it's my absolute favorite crossfit workout.  On the video you'll get to see our gym, my friends, and even me! talking about this great community of people. 

When you click the link, read the article if you choose, but definitely click the best format for you to the right and watch.  It's about 6 minutes, but I'd love it if you took the time to check out something so important to me.

Happy Wednesday, everyone!

Cheers,
Whitney

Fat Tuesday

Happy Mardi Gras/Fat Tuesday, friends!  When I came downstairs this morning, Darcy had already prepared herself for a day of treats and celebration.  When Mike takes her to the vet this morning, do you think they'll judge her for the beads?   

I hope you all treat yourselves to some good, rich food and drink tonight.  Tomorrow brings Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent and forty days of fasting and repentance before Easter.  You'd better live it up tonight!

My idea of a treat tonight is sweatpants, sweatshirt, a glass of white wine and some trashy reality TV.  What are you doing?

-whitney

Happy Valentine's Day... kitten!

Hello Gang,

Hope you're all off to a great start to the week.  I thought we (I) could use a little pick-me-up today.  It's hard to get excited about Valentine's Day, even if I have a 'valentine' because, to me, it seems so put on.  So much pressure.  There's build up, let down, high prices, dead flowers... need I go on?

So instead, I thought we could watch a few sweet little videos that make me laugh out loud.  Even if you've seen them before, it's always worth another viewing. 

This video, called Kittens inspired by Kittens, makes me laugh until I am crying and hyperventolating every time I watch it.

And this one is an oldie but a goodie! It also never gets old.  I wish this kid would stay this age and size and tell me funny stories every day.

Have a wonderful day, everyone!

xo,
whitney

Tales of the Goat Dog and 5 other things

Happy Friday, Homies!

I hope you all had a wonderful week.  It was tough to settle back in after 5 days of family time (despite a sad reason) and the Florida sunshine. I'm a sucker for green grass (or, make that grass), the potential for tan lines in February, and quality time with the people that know me better than anyone. 

Awaiting for me when I returned was this:

Yep, Darcy the goat dog officially moved into my spot on the bed, and Mike further solidified himself as #1 human in my absence.  I'm hoping to reclaim my spot and gain some points in the human ranking when Mike travels for a week in April. Sigh. The plus: this 40lb dog compacts herself into a steering wheel sized pretzel for sleepy time, so she doesn't take up the whole side. Just the top near my pillow and my boyfriend. :)

Her goat like tendancies have been dormant the last week+ as we've been more careful with leaving our things around.  Although, we've now come to realize that this leggy little sweetheart has a mean streak for squeeky toys and will stop at nothing to tear their squeakers, heart, stuffing, and anything else attached completely apart in one sitting.  I'm talking less than 10 minutes to terminal destruction, people. I'll provide photo, or perhaps video, evidence when she gets her next softsided victim. 

On to the Other Things...

I've contemplated 5 things over the past few days that seem to play on repeat in my mind.  I figured I'd share them with you too, so maybe they can become 'our' ponderances. 

1)  I HEART spinning.  Don't get me wrong... I'm CrossFit all the way, and that's my #1 fitness passion, but as a non-runner, I must admit, spinning is amazing.  I didnt' believe the folks who've tried to convince me in the past.  I'm thankful for taking up a friend's invitation to check it out back in November and I haven't looked back.  I think it's proof that you can have great cardio without having to feel guilty about hating running. Take that, runners!  And, to prove my love, I recently purchased spin shoes. Yep. I'm IN!

2)  I have such a cool kid sister.  Given the 1,300+ miles between us, I'm not a part of the day-to-day, but that doesn't mean I'm not blown away by her cool, talented, him almost-13-year-old-self!  Here she is at swim practice last week while I was home. 

She swims for my old swim team, with one small exception... she's incredible and so gets the benefit of being coached by Randy Reese!!!  If you're asking yourself who the heck he is, shame on you, and read more here.  This little lady is on her way to big things, and that makes a big sister so happy!

3)  I've come to realize that I'm slightly obsessed with NPR, but in the best way possible.  I'm enthralled and totally tuned in when I'm listening.  I listen in the car before work, immediately tune in at my desk online, and then my whole car ride home.  Occasionally, I will silence a phone call so that I can continue to listen to the rest of a story.  It's my barometer for news stories... not as roses and sunshine as NBC, but not as hellfire and brimstone as FOX.  NPR, I heart you!

4) I have a tendancy to rationalize stopping at 2 or more stores to complete a shopping list- whether it be groceries or household items- I simply can not do a one-stop-shop.  I find that I prefer certain Trader Joe's items, Target items, and Stop-and-Shop items.  Although all three stores carry everything I need (almost), I have a preference and find that I will completely convince myself that it's better to get certain things from all three than all from one.  Now, from this perch at my desk, I can see that this is crazy thinking, but once my wheels are set in motion and I'm ready to check the list off, I know in my mind that I will not be satisfied unless I can get those specific items from each store.  Some of it is quality driven, and some cost driven.  I guess I'm crazy.

5)  Pinterest- I don't know its real purpose, and I think I might have accidently harrassed all of my FB friends by inadvertantly sending a 'follow me' message (is that what happens?!), but I love that site.  For me, it's like makebelieve and dress up for adults.  I just click away on the things I like with wreckless abandon.  Likely, I will never make the recipes, I will never buy the clothes, I will fail at the hair and make-up attempts, I will never actually DIY anything, but I have SO MUCH FUN pretending like I will.

And, that is all.  Have a wonderful weekend.

-whitney

Treat yourself, Tuesday!

Hi Friends,

Going to keep this one short and sweet today.

We haven't had a treat yourself Tuesday in a while and boy are WE overdue!  Once again, Trader Joe's came through with a delicious new (or new to me anyway) treat that I can't get enough of.  Enter.... Sweet Potato Gnocchi!

This wonderful sweet potato goodness with its buttery sage sauce and easy cooking instructions had me at hello. As always, my sincere apologies to those without access to Trader Joe's.  You might want to consider relocating...I kid, I kid.

I happened upon this in the freezer section near the other gnocchi and frozen snack/side item stuff.  I'm a sucker for sweet potato of any kind, and this treat did not disappoint.  For $2.99 you've got a side item for 2-3 people, or lunch for yourself for a few days.  Add a piece of grilled or baked chicken into the mix and you're a goner.  Is that a word?  Goner.?!

Anyway, I highly recommend you check this out.  I've tried both the microwave instructions and stove top instructions and they're easy and wonderful.  If you're like me, you can also jazz it up with some red pepper flakes and a touch of black pepper for some kick.  AND....to top it off, this stuff is relatively low calorie, low fat, low bad stuff.  It's not paleo, but heck, you've got to live a little, right?

Run out and treat yourself tonight.  You won't be sorry.  And, you might thank me.

yours,
whitney

Take advantage and make the best

A mind dump of thoughts today:

Sometimes ignorance really is bliss, because getting lost in your thoughts can be the mirror in your face that you've been avoiding.

Take advantage of every chance you have to be with family; tell them you love them; forgive them of wrong doings; indulge the lengthy repeat story teller.  I think the same goes for friends.  We all know the cliche, life is short, but in reality, it is short.  We don't have forever, and we are missing out on things by not making the effort.

Some of us are blessed to live 30+ years without losing anyone, while others suffer loss beginning at a very early age.  For me, it's easy to get caught up in the day to day and to 'trust' that the people I love know I love them, despite my not calling or writing for some time.  Well, that's complacent and that's lazy.  It's easy for me to say that I can't fit it all in when I travel home and I'll try to see 'you' on my next trip.  That's also lazy and selfish. 

And then, when the time comes, that next trip is too late.  I've missed the baby birth, the birthday, the final days of a grandparent's life.  Considering the latter, will he know that I loved him, despite not being in touch for some time?  Was it enough to send my love through my Dad at holidays and birthdays, instead of calling myself?  Was I being spiteful because he didn't reach out to me for years?  These are tough questions.  And there are no good answers. 

My memories are faded and I feel sorry for that.  The stories I have to tell date back some 10+ years, because it's been that long since memories were made.

All I can do is the best I can, try a bit harder, and hope that others forgive my misgivings.

 I suppose the dark skies and rain are fitting for my mood today.
______________________________________________________________________________

On a lighter note, I'm happy to report the Darcy the goat-dog wonder pup has gone a full 3 days without eating anything she's not supposed to, and she is beginning to settle in a bit.  Now, of course, when I get home, this could be out the window, but as of this morning when I left, she was in this position... waiting for Mike to return home (that will be a long 8+hour wait) after he left for work.

Yep- she's pushed her crate over, climbed up, and is perched on the desk to see out.

 yours,
whitney

Near and Dear

 For 9 years of my adult life, I worked in different capacities for The Hole in the Wall Camps.  This is a charity that is near and dear to my heart, and the heart of many others.  If you aren't familiar, I recommend you check out their website, http://www.holeinthewallcamps.org/ to learn more.  This global family of camps for children with serious medical conditions provides traditional camping opportunities for these children and their families, free of charge.  That's right!  Children who are too sick to participate in the average summer or weekend camp experience are able to attend a Hole in the Wall Camp for free and have the experience of a lifetime, all while receiving their treatment and under full medical supervision.  What could be better, right?

Well, what's better is being able to help support this wonderful organization.  A friend and fellow CrossFitter, Leah Spector, is joining the ranks of those who are taking on the Boston Marathon this spring and raising funds and awareness of Hole in the Wall along the way.  I come to you today to help Leah spread the word of her fundraising efforts and ask for your consideration in supporting her.  You can learn more about her goals and make a donation here.  Can you imagine running 26.2 miles on purpose???  I can't, and I'm sure I won't ever be up for that challenge, which is why I felt so compelled to support Leah by contributing financially.  I know that when she's rounding out mile 18, and then 22, and then 26.0, she'll be thinking of the kids that she's running for.  She'll be proud of the work she's done and thankful for the support she's received. 

Carla and Leah at the fundraiser this past weekend

Last weekend our gym hosted a charity competition to raise money to support Leah. I'm proud to say that we raised over $700 for her in one morning.  While that is an incredible amount of money, Leah's goal is to send two campers to camp this summer, which means she's in need of more donations to support her. If you feel so compelled, please consider supporting Leah today, tomorrow, or next week.  She's undertaking a tremendous goal- training to run 26.2 miles despite injury and winter climates- this woman is dedicated and driven.

So what are you doing this spring?  If you aren't running Boston yourself, maybe you could participate vicariously this way.

Thanks for your consideration in supporting Leah, and in learning more about a charity that means so much to me.

With love,
Whitney

Blast from the past

A Thursday quickie

Last week I was in Target buying more dog stuff for the little miss and decided to grab a few grocery things too.  Our Target, and likely yours too, have these new lights near the freezer food that turn on as you approach and off as you walk away.  It's like a disco of freezer food if you move quickly.  Anyway, I was drawn in by the lights and ended up going home with a bag of tater tots.  After the stress of the new dog, new routine,and boat load of money I spent on her last week, I thought I'd treat us to a good old blast from the past... cafeteria style.

And, these babies are gluten free to boot!  I know white potatoes aren't paleo, but they are very good for bone density in women so I figure you win some you lose some.
Last night we finished the bag, which is surprisingly a lot of tots for the $.  They were as great as I'd remembered and I think we'll be set for another 10 years before we need to have them again.  It's funny how sometimes in your dark moments you revert back to your old comfort foods from childhood, or whenever.  But one bag is enough to remind me why we work hard to eat healthy and only indulge every now and again.


-whitney

Puppin' ain't easy

One week down and boy do we have some work to do!

Little Miss Darcy, aka Darcy Doodle (I know, I'm corny), has had quite the week of attempted adjustment and chaos.  From a whirlwind pick-up last week to instant crate training to a weekend in Vermont.  The little girl is both tuckered out and a bit manic about who she is, who she belongs to, and where she lives.

In general, Darcy is so sweet and loving.  She has mastered the art of puppy dog eyes. They are both heartbreaking when you're leaving and heartwarming when she's flashing them at you from the dog bed she settled herself into without being asked.

This past weekend in VT can be summed up in a two words: Sh*t Storm. Literally, a storm of doggy doodoo took over our lives and the lives of those who so graciously welcomed us into their home for the weekend.  Oh. My. Word. What did we do???  The poor girl got so stressed out (totally our fault for putting all this on her so soon) that she blew up the crate with poop and then proceeded to scratch and chew her way completely out of the crate.  She chewed through a zipper and canvas.  That's determination!

In her more calm moments, it was evident that she is a loving, sweet, mild mannered dog at heart.  We just need to help her bring that out and retrain the crazy out of her. 

We've started clicker training as recommended by a friend and in this book.  She's definitely a smart girl, and I know that with more time and some training both in home and professionally, she'll be a great dog.  When you're apologizing profusely for an entire weekend about the chaos your dog has created, it's difficult to remember that, but I do really believe she'll be OK.

And when you see her mugging for the camera, you're again reminded that there's a sweet, well behaved girl in there somewhere:

Thanks for your words of wisdom and encouragement last week and today.  We'll get there... but there is much work ahead of us!

*PS- What dog food works best for you?  She's between 1-2 years old, so adult food, but no need for the senior dog stuff.  We've got her on Beneful to put some weight on her, but I'm wondering if it's contributing to her poop issues. 

yours,
Whitney

Say it ain't so

Well, the day has come. A friend to some, a secret treat to others, and an enemy to even more is going into retirement.  This morning during my work commute, NPR reported that Hostess, maker of Twinkies, HoHo's, and Wonder Bread is going to be closing up shop.  They've filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy, according to this article: By by Twinkie

Tim Boyle/Getty Images

I remember hearing stories as a kid of people saying you could bury a twinkie for 20 years and dig it up and it'd be edible and in the same form... which is both alarming and fascinating.  I'd like to think that Hostess was doing away with these treats because they were interested in making healthier food for the masses.  It's certainly sad to see another US company that dates back to long before my 32 years failing and unable to meet it's commitments. 

Perhaps there will be some savior to swoop in and buy Hostess.  Perhaps Twinkies will live on and we will still have grilled cheese sandwiches on Wonder Bread... who knows.  This is a paleo eater's dream, and a second grader's nightmare.

Stay cool, Twinkie.  K.I.T. 

-wd

And then there were 3

Today is a wonderful day.  Not only because it's a Treat Yourself Tuesday, but because last night, Mike and I treated ourselves. Big time! 

Drum roll please..................

WE ADOPTED A DOG!!!!!

Yep. It's been a bit of a whirlwind the last few weeks as we've been looking at different pups in adoption shelters and foster homes online.  I would email one to Mike and he would email one to me... we both had mostly the same thing in mind with a few slight differences.  I was scheduled to have a phone interview with an adoption center last night when Mike emailed me a listing for this sweet face:

He really liked her, so I postponed the phone interview for the other pup and we drove to West Hartford to check out this little girl, Darcy.  She's a year+ old, a little skiddish, but gives lots of love. She aims to please and looks often for your affection and approval.  We spent about an hour with her at the shelter and told her foster Mom we'd think about it and call her today.

We no sooner got 1 mile down the road and wondered why we'd left her there and why we hadn't just taken her home with us.  We answered ourselves with: 1) We don't even have food at the house, 2) We don't have a crate, 3) We're going to VT this weekend, 4)???? we ran out of excuses.  And alas, on our left was a PetCo, with their blue and red light shining bright in our direction.

We pulled in, got the necessary goods, called foster Mom back, and asked if we could come take Darcy Dog home.  She said YES!  So, in a fit of excitement and a little fear of the unknown, we packed her up and headed home for Milford.

Like anything, this will take adjusting on all our parts.  We'll have to teach her and train her, and she'll have to train us too.  Within 5 minutes of walking in the door, she broke a candle holder accidentally because she tripped on an electrical cord that was not-so-delicately placed between the candles.  It's my fault, but it scared her pretty bad.  After that, we had some treats and cuddled on the floor under blankets to settle in.  I'd say night #1 went well considering 2 hours beforehand she was tucked into her own crate in West Hartford instead.  It's clear that she's never lived in a house nor been house trained.  She doesn't even know 'Sit.' Poor girl. We'll get her all learned up. :)

We're now accepting any and all dog training tips from getting her not to beg for food, to not inhaling her own food, to getting more comfortable on the leash/harness (Amanda... I'm looking to you on this one!).  Send your thoughts, suggestions, tips my way... we sure could use 'em.  Also, what shampoo, food, supplies do you love?

And now a few more pics from Miss Darcy (Kind of like Miss Daisy, except for no opposable thumbs and a tail).

checking out the kitchen... aka.. .where's my food, lady?

skinny girl

checking out the backyard

Mike assembling her 'crate' to spend her days in

afraid of the stairs. I swear it was her first time on them. Going up was easy-ish, coming down took about 3 minutes.

Harnessed and ready for a walk

So on that note, treat yourself to a puppy! 

yours in puppy love,

whitney