Meet my coworkers! One of the joys of working from home is getting to spend more time with my 2 pooches, Wanda (on the left) and Olive (right). I think they've become spoiled by it too! They don't provide much in the way of conversation, but it's nice to have them around on those days when I'm chained to my desk without a client meeting or  lunch with friends to break up the day!

I'm proud to say that both our pups were adopted! We came by Wanda about 6(!) years ago when we knew we wanted a dachshund, but didn't feel right about going to a breeder and DEFINITELY weren't about to purchase a pup from a pet store. So Sean and I connected with the Dachshund Rescue of North America (no joke, this is a thing). After filling out an online form, home visit, and reference check, I drove upstate, all by my lonesome (Sean had to work that day), and picked up the newest addition to our family. Wanda was 4 when we adopted her and was previously in an abusive situation. Despite her myriad issues, and trust problems, specifically with men, we're lucky to have her, and I'm pretty sure she's happy to be with us.

Olive was adopted 2 years later when the whole family trundled out to the North Shore Animal League to see about getting a dog for Wanda. Olive had just been dropped off at the shelter that day. Her name was Candy, and she had been purchased at a pet store, but proved too much to handle for the owner and was turned over, still a puppy, to the league. Olive was a bit crazy, but like any good big sister (just ask mine), Wanda put up with her antics and the two soon became fast friends. Cuddling on the couch and playing on the floor. It's so sweet how protective they are of each other and 

So last Wednesday was the opening night of Celebrate Brooklyn Concert Series, with non-other than my favorite, Janelle Monáe! Unfortunately my pics of the actual concert weren't coming out, so I decided to just put down the camera and enjoy the show. I did snap a shot of my view (before all the Gala attendees sat down), and my friend, Caroline, took a picture illustrating just how excited I was before Ms. Monáe's arrival onstage.

But just so everyone can get an idea of how fantastic the show was, below are some pics by Karsten Moran for NYT.

It was a beautiful day to wait in the park and everyone was in a great mood. And, of course, the concert was AMAZING!  Knowing how awesome it would be, even the de Blasios attended! (another shot by Karsten Moran for NYT.)

About a week ago my parents sold their house. They've lived there for almost 40 years! Needless to say this is the only house my sister and I ever knew growing up. It's been a bittersweet process. I'm so excited for my parents to move on and enjoy their retirement, but I will miss this place that has so many memories tied up with it.

The house is an old colonial built over 200 years ago (I believe that's what my dad told me, though he should feel free to correct me if I'm wrong!). It was wonderful growing up in a home with character while so many of my friends had new-builds and McMansions. I know every quirk of the home. I can tell which family member is coming up the stairs based on how the wooden boards are squeaking. I know if I throw the door open wide enough on the detached garage I have enough time to run from it to the house before it slams behind me. I know the marks in the living room were caused by our oversized Christmas trees scratching the ceiling.

I am happy to know it's a young family moving into the home and hope they enjoy it as much as we have for so many years.