September 19 Run or Walk: Meet at Commonplace Coffee at 6736 Reynolds St. in Pt. Breeze

We were going to have a run starting at the Abbey in Lawrenceville (an old favorite), but it no longer opens at 8 sadly, so we'll make do with Commonplace in Pt. Breeze, which has a big backyard to sit in and the espresso comes with seltzer and a cute little biscuit.  Exploration from there can head to Mellon Park and beyond. Remember Pam's run some years ago when we invaded various cul-de-sacs of the 1% on Beechwood and Shady?  Maybe we can do this sporting versions of AOC's wild "Tax The Rich" outfit at the Met Gala.

Last week we visited sites of Homestead and then lounged outside the Waterfront Starbucks.  As usual, the Lt. Gov. and his family were nearby, and as they were leaving, 2nd Lady of PA Gisele waved to us and said "Hi there running club!" A friend in high places.

Endorsements:

• Onetime RG member and teacher extraordinaire Jan Waldeck has received the 2021 Yale Educator Award - many congrats to you Jan!! 
• Speaking of the Fettermans, you can check out the Twitter feed of their dog, Levi.
• Watch:  Freaky Friday the original movie from 1976, Only Murders in the Building TV series with Steve Martin, Impeachment: American Crime Story, produced by Monica Lewinsky!
• Read: the NYT The Hunt - choosing apartments in the stratosphere
• Hut to hut hiking in Switzerland, or all-inclusive biking tours (umm Death Valley?)
• Under consideration:  flash mobs at weddings. 
• Fit watches Garmin or the lowest level Apple one.
• Yet another shoutout to Roland the King of Line Dancing!  This post is a MUST see.  The summer events are done but there is a promise of winter line dancing to come.
• The Great Race is back!  Pam has invited anyone running the Great Race next week (the 26th) to stop at her house (2200 Beechwood, near the starting point) ahead of the race to hang out, hit the bathroom, etc.

P.S. Last week's message was on the blog but didn't get mailed - sorry, everyone! This may be because I am resistant to any attempt to comprehend our mailing system, Google Groups.  If you'd like to read it, though, it's here - and I'll just hope against hope that this one reaches you.

September 12 Run or Walk: Meet outside the Waterfront Starbucks

Forecast for a beautiful day Sunday! We'll meet outside the Starbucks at the Waterfront, maybe check out what's new in Homestead, and hope to salute our Lieutenant Gov.

Last week we had 2 outings - Sunday dahntahn and Monday at 61C - both delightful, and btw, perfectly free of rain. Once more, oh ye of little faith! Walkers paid homage to our national pastime.  On comparing the double espresso at the Market Square Starbucks with the one at the C: latter, a nice buzz; former, brain on fire.  Does Starbucks inject extra caffeine? And is that a conspiracy theory?  Going to try Panera instead this week.

A few endorsements: 

• Watch:  5 Flights Up with Morgan Freeman and Diane Keaton; On Golden Pond; Grace and Frankie, revealing our demographic.
• Today's cat litter: "better life through chemistry," also revealing our demographic.
• Trying to break free of Amazon.
• High school musicals - may they return in the Spring!

September 5 Run or Walk: Meet at Market Square Downtown

 Reporting from Lainy:

Next Sunday run meet at market Square for a three rivers run/walk. And a holiday run on Labor Day at 7:30 at the 61C

Where have all the walkers gone? There were no walkers at today’s run/walk, but Tom showed up for coffee

August 29 Run or Walk: Meet at our old friend 61C Cafe in Squirrel Hill for a nostalgia run

Meet-up on Sunday will be at the old favorite, 61C cafe in Squirrel Hill, where the outdoor seating is ample, the cute little birds come right up to the table, and the Sunday Morning farmer's market is a block away. I won't be there so don't forget to find someone to write this next week.

Last week we were all over Wilkinsburg, Frick Park, Regent Square, etc.  We are so wise to get out early these steamy days.  We are so wise, period.  Much talk about travel:

• Deckers Creek Trail, in Morgantown - really not that far
• Rehoboth Beach - further but something for everyone
• Columbia River Gorge in Oregon - really far but gorgeous 
• Much loved and not far at all:  Cupples Stadium on the South Side
• Air travel - NOT - the mask situation is insane
• E-bikes and paddleboarding are better ways to get around but admittedly limited.  Also what's up with those Spin scooters?  
• The genius coach that got our lazy kids to play sports:  Mr. Picc at Frick
• Listen to podcast Heavyweight
• Watch Pittsburgh-based Sweet Girl (maybe?) but definitely The Chair
• Watch Paris-based Call My Agent, Dublin-based What If, and Hawaii-based The White Lotus

August 22 Run or Walk: Meet at Biddle's Escape, corner of Trenton and Biddle Aves.

Next time we can explore Frick Park, Wilkinsburg, Point Breeze - many options - starting at Biddle's Escape, corner of Trenton and Biddle Aves., which has outdoor seating with umbrellas, bathrooms, and they are currently highlighting their ginger peach scones.  What's not to like? Be there at 7 am as usual.  (That's for the new folks on the list - hi there!)

Last week, while we missed many of you out traveling the world, a hardy few of us traversed the South Side, finding tons of wildflowers lining the trail, and checking out the Pittsburgh Highline, OK, it's not like NY but there aren't a million people breathing on you, and it's right on the Mon! Also, several thumbs up for Cup-Ka-Joe's, nice urban chic alternative to the Big Dog down the street.

Endorsed:

• Cedar Creek Park, much to do there, not far and right on the Great Allegheny Passage trail
• Fabulous show at the Frick Museum of Women's Sporting Costumes (way better than it sounds - you have to see these up close) and if you go on Th - Sun. midday, the Cafe is open.
• Relaxing things to do:  swimming and grouting
• Keeping out undesirables:  Ace Locksmith on Baum Blvd.
• Finding local professionals:  Thumbtack - evidently most popular in Pgh now are electrical wiring repair and wedding officiants
• Watch on Apple TV (free for one week and then $4.99 a month): Ted Lasso, and The Morning Show.

August 15 Run or Walk: Meet at corner of Sarah St. and 27th St. on the South Side

We'll meet at the corner of Sarah St. and 27th St. on the South Side, and then decide where to have coffee: Cup-Ka-Joe's or Big Dog.  Cup-Ka's has more outdoor seating, but the Dog is a favorite.  We'll vote - democracy! And we'll run or walk somewhere too.

Last week we took a tour of East Liberty's charms, including the Borland Garden and a block of Historic District row houses (pictured) that I cannot now locate on any map (Brigadoon? Hogwarts Express?)  And where did you go, runners?  Are we entering another dimension?

Back on earth we reviewed:

Ohio:  home of Metroparks and Warblers

Yoga: Monday at noon and Saturday at 10 in Schenley Plaza

The Detective Building renovation

Don't ever go:  Chuck E. Cheese, apparently kosher? 

Draw: with Posca acrylic markers (David Coulson's favorite)

Read: Squeeze Me by Carl Hiassen

Love art in the Hudson Valley: Dia Beacon, and many more

Name your kid:  Hadassah

August 8 Run or Walk: Meet at Redstart Roasters Coffee, 224 N. Euclid St. in East Liberty

We'll begin and end at Redstart Roasters, a new-ish coffee place at the Detective Building in East Liberty - 224 N. Euclid St.  Interestingly, it was "originally formed in 2017 as the intersection of a considerable coffee habit and an affinity for birds."  I'm excited to see how this manifests itself.  Cappuccino with feathers?  Nest seating?  Maybe on the run/walk, we can ID some feathered friends with our new Merlin Bird Sound app.  There have been local sightings of a Dickcissel and a Brown Thrasher!  

Last week we trekked through Frick Park from the Blue Slide side and affirmed that it is still blue. It is strangely reassuring that we can still get lost in there.  Lucky for us, Pam and Chris invited us all for a cheery coffee in their aerie-like porch right across the street, complete with adorable grandkids Maya and Nuri.  

Endorsements - so many! 

• The plural of octopus is NOT octopi because it's Greek. It's octopuses.  Good luck with that.  However, DO read The Soul of an Octopus, watch My Octopus Teacher and listen to podcast How Octopuses Upend What We Know About Ourselves and you will be transformed.
• Now trees:  Read and watch The Hidden Life of Trees, and read The Overstory.  
• Now composting: you can do it yourself, or get a service.  
• Now politics (sorry!): Jonathan Chait's column in New York Magazine.
• Now thrifting AND politics: Gisele Fetterman and one of our favorite stores, Thriftique
• Eat: at the new 40 North Restaurant at City of Asylum
• Listen: Buffalo Rose (Gretchen's daughter's band) concerts coming up at Hartwood Acres on 8/15 and Kingfly Spirits on 8/27
• More listening: Podcasts Heavyweight (funny) and Suave (inspiring) and Aack-cast (quirky)
• Biking:  does anyone want a free registration to PedalPGH, coming up last week in August?  If so, email Virginia at virginiaclinn@gmail.com.

August 1 Run or Walk: Meet at Pam and Chris's house at 2200 Beechwood Blvd.

Pam and multiple offspring (some small and adorable!) will be in town this weekend and she is going to lead the run and have everyone over for coffee afterwards.  So on Sunday we'll meet at 2200 Beechwood Blvd. at our usual 7 am time.

Last Sunday morning was spent in one of our comfort zones: neighborly Squirrel Hill, shiny vintage cars to look at, temp in the 70's, Sharon's shady backyard, delish homemade coffeecake, and sparkling talk which vanished into thin air as I was too lazy to write anything down.  I do recall an extended convo re Cleveland which was astoundingly civilized considering it took place in Pittsburgh.  

Some interim endorsements:

• The famous Roland, King of Line Dancing, on Thursdays at 7 pm at Schenley Plaza and Sundays at 7 pm at the entrance to Highland Park (preceded by a jazz concert from 5-7.)
• The even more famous Wendy, Queen of Zumba, on Friday evenings at 5:30 also at the entrance to Highland Park.
• The Root Slayer shovel for any digging or slaying you have in mind.

For lack of a photo from last week, here's one that I missed from the week before:

P.S. If anyone knows of a nice 2-bedroom apartment for rent in a not-brand-new building - I have a friend in search of one - please let me know.

July 25 Run/Walk: Meet at Sharon's (5612 Woodmont) and we'll revisit the vintage autos in Schenley Park

So what'd I miss?  (referring to Hamilton of course.) Not the American Revolution, though another one may scarily be underway.  Many thanks to Aimee for keeping track of RG lore so we don't miss anything.

On Sunday we'll meet at Sharon's house - 5612 Woodmont - where we'll come back to her lovely backyard space for post-run coffee and clatch.  We'll return to our annual viewing of fancy cars at the Vintage Grand Prix - happening in person!

Last Sunday we also found ourselves back with old favorites, the Strip, La Prima, and Colangelo's almond meles (meles are mentioned in this blog over 35 times - I did a search - this is embarrassing.) 

2 weeks of endorsements:

• FINALLY, after years of waiting, the Wednesday/Friday runs from the Squirrel Hill library will no longer start at the ungodly 5:45 am, but at 6:15.  
• Reminder:  Open Streets is returning this Sunday - this time in Hazelwood.
• Audrey came back to visit! Next time we'll set up a Mah Jongg game too.
• Where to get party dresses for women of a certain age (J. Jill, Boden, can't recall other) - and go to a tailor to make them fit perfectly, i.e. Distilo Tailoring at Shady and Forward.  
• Maybe watch first:  "What Not to Wear" 
• Listen: No Place Like Home on Ruby Slippers, Dolly Parton's America, Smartless esp the one with George Clooney.
• How to recycle in Pittsburgh (but why is it so hard??)
• Fruit:  Costco
• Chicken:  there's a lot of poultry history in Squirrel Hill, ask Max!
• Meat (not):  Beyond Meat better than Impossible Foods?
• No-gift wedding events (if they really mean it)
• Linda Meacci's August yoga retreat now only a drive away, and there are tipis!
• Also this TikTok sent by Tom and Kay with another outlook:

(It is quite impressive that Tom and Kay are familiar with TikTok.)

July 11 Run or Walk: Meet at Starbucks at the Waterfront

On Sunday let's return to an old favorite, the Waterfront.

Last week, Virginia led us on a great route through the South Side Slopes that took us up many, many, many steps until we couldn't go higher.  The higher we got, the better the view.  

Here is the route if anyone who missed it wants to check it out: http://www.southsideslopes.org/steptrek/church-route/

The mosaic steps were stunning.  I skipped coffee so I missed out on endorsements, but Elaine sent me these wonderful photos.  

July 4 Run: Meet at Big Dog Coffee- 2717 Sarah Street for a South Side Run or Walk

This is what we would mostly follow on Sunday for the South Side Church Walk:

From Big Dog Coffee (2717 Sarah) we'll be entering the slopes from 27th Street (instead of 15th Street as indicated on the map) so we can go up the Mosaic steps, but will loop around back to 18th Street and then run back to Big Dog Coffee. 

http://www.southsideslopes.org/steptrek/church-route/

Last week, I didn't write down any endorsements as we were enjoying breakfast/coffee at The Lot at Edgewater as what could be described as a "Caribbean vacation" compared to the week. It was a really enjoyable route through Oakmont, and was the first time we've ever met as a group there. Virginia showed us a house that is listed for $1.1 million in the development closest to the river:https://www.post-gazette.com/life/Buying-Here/2021/06/25/Oakmont-homes-houses-for-sale-real-estate-Pittsburgh-2021-Edgewater-at-Oakmont-2nd-St-Allegheny-River-Buying-Here/stories/202106270014

But now could spend 1/3 of that for an updated older house on the other side of Allegheny River Boulevard.  A bit of a frenzied housing market we have on our hands here!

June 27 Run/Walk: Oakmont green space at 201 2nd St., Oakmont, PA 15139

There really were no new endorsements from last Sunday; mostly more discussion on "Mare of Easttown," and "Luca."

This coming Sunday's run will be around the new riverfront development in Oakmont. Meet at the green space on College Avenue in the complex (put 201 2nd St., Oakmont, PA 15139 in your GPS and you'll come right to the green space.)

From Allegheny River Boulevard, it will be your first left on College Avenue once you enter Oakmont. Go three blocks to the corner of 2nd and College. You'll see a big flat green field with plenty of parking around it.

We could do coffee at either The Lot at Edgewater (which opens at 8 a.m. and is two blocks away) or drive up to the Oakmont Bakery, which opens at 6 a.m.

June 20 Run or Walk: Meet at 61C Cafe

Father’s Day run or walk: Meet at 61C Cafe 

Walkers and runners enjoyed the charming streets of Aspinwall and Virginia found her street sign! (see photo)

Endorsements included:

-Cobra Korean bbq karaoke Bloomfield 

-"In the Heights" movie-- see it on the IMAX screen at the Waterfront!

-"Luca," Jesse Andrews wrote the screenplay!!  It's a coming of age, animated movie that is released Friday June 18 on Disney+

-Mandalorian Disney+

-"Mare of Eastown" on HBO Max but even better the SNL sketch is great (but ruins it for watching rest of series) 

-Janet's kids created a podcast for Mother’s Day 

-Paint porch ceiling "haint blue" to protect against evil spirits.  Common in New Orleans and Savannah.

-Massage kale

-Fifth season brand of salad greens (greenhouse grown locally in Braddock)

June 13 Run/Walk: Meet at the Aspinwall Riverfront Park parking lot

We're going back to Aspinwall because the river is glorious and the gardens are even cuter now, and also if you are a frequenter of yard sales, there is a town-wide one starting at 9 am.  Coffee takeout is available nearby, and there are seats on the riverfront.  Let's hope the weather gods oblige.

We had a Squirrel Hill comfort-zone treat on Sunday - the familiar combo of Schenley Park plus the 61C.  Much was discussed and there was also some running/walking.  RG medical personnel dispensed the best advice as always, especially about gardening, pastry and shoes. 

Endorsed:

• birdwatching in 61C patio - we were THIS CLOSE to a mom feeding her chick - too cute!  also Merlin Bird ID.  You can also ask Chris about their respiratory systems, apparently unique to birds and crocodiles.
  
• Prantl's new location in Squirrel Hill and the mini-almond torte
• Three Rivers Arts Festival - who cares if you've never heard of any of the groups - there is an actual festival happening, people!
• Duolingo app - 36 languages, including Klingon, Navajo, and Yiddish - you can waste time on your phone now without really wasting time.
• UPS has notaries but you need to call first.
• Jewish youth organizations (sometimes): BBG, CRUSY and NFTYNEL (not to be confused with NFL)

June 6 Run/Walk: Meet at the Wendy Bennett Trailhead, Overlook Dr. at Greenfield Ave. in Schenley Park

We'll start at our favorite Trailhead, that of Wendy Bennett (map), and explore Schenley Park for a change.  Then head to 61C for a schmoozefest.  

Last Sunday's excursion, designed by Beth (Lainy's daughter,) was spectacular, traversing the Mexican War Streets and then climbing up the Fineview Fitness Trail to a seemingly endless series of those very fine views.  Coffee and convo were at the adorable park outside of Commonplace Coffee, where our escort, Weasley the dog, was finally able to relax (see photo.)  It was a long wait to get coffee at the cafe, and, more urgently, impossible to use the bathroom.  But Wendy and I discovered that the officers at the local police station were kind to Grandma-types in distress. 

Endorsements:

• Randyland, with a sad news alert: poor Randy was subject to a ransomware attack the day after we visited!
• Long ago running group trip to Braddock and coffee at the Fettermans, about which there is documentary evidence (where is it?) - see the 2014 entry for details.
• Watch:  Circus of Books documentary, Wylie Ave. Days documentary, Lupin (oo-la-la)
• Read: The Four Winds
• Dancing in Squirrel Hill on Nov. 7
• Alaska 5-1-1 Liquid Fish Fertilizer
• Atlas Obscura - finds weird and curious places to visit wherever you are, i.e. Randyland

• 
  

 

May 30 Run/Walk: Meet at Commonplace Coffee on the North Side - 1501 Buena Vista St.

We'll start at Commonplace Coffee at the corner of Buena Vista and Jacksonia on the Northside, and traipse through the Mexican War Streets. Apparently the last time we were there was June of 2019, when we discovered afterwards that Gertrude Stein was born a few blocks away, so we can investigate. We'll also head up to Fineview, home of the mystically named corner of Compromise and Hemlock.  Bring a chair in case we sit in the cute park outside Commonplace. 

Last Sunday we neglectfully forgot to take photos, but we did some Squirrel Hill/Shadyside meandering, followed by a delightful comfy coffee klatch in Wendy's blooming garden. Blessed normalcy!

I can barely read my handwriting due to temporary right hand malfunction (typing here is SLOW), but I think we agreed that these are fun to watch:

• Halston - the perfume episode (#3)
• Good Girls, or its Swedish version The Simple Heist
• Occupied
• Thelma & Louise
• Fatal Attraction (note shoulder pads)
• Mary Tyler Moore Show Chuckles Bites the Dust episode - when you need to laugh out loud

Fun travel:

• NYC - Little Island
• North Shore - The Cruisin' Tiki - first launch is at 8 am!

Let's not forget the idea to bring back happy hour at Over Eden

Another idea: pick one of 100 Burgh staircases for another run

May 23 Run: Meet at Beechwood and Wilkins Avenue

May 23 Run: Meet at Beechwood and Wilkins Avenue.  Wendy wants to host coffee in her back patio after the run and walk.

This past Sunday, we enjoyed a nice South Oakland/Schenley Park run and enjoyed our Dunkin at Schenley Plaza.  Endorsements include Thumbtack for finding contractors/professionals/experts, OnePass as a way to organize passwords, and Microsoft Lens app which is a scanner on your phone!

Have a great weekend, everyone.  Hope to see you Sunday!

May 16 Run: Meet at Schenley Plaza

Hi everyone-- subbing for Roye so another short note with meeting location for Sunday.

Runners and walkers meet at Schenley Plaza for what looks like beautiful warmer weather!

Bring your own coffee or get from Dunkin.  There's a Starbucks too, but I'm not sure about Sunday am hours.

Last Sunday was Mother's Day and due to the threat of rain, it was a small group.   But look at those beautiful faces!

May 9 Run: Meet at Frick Environmental Center, 2005 Beechwood Blvd

A quick note with the meet-up place only, as I'm temporarily subbing for Roye.

On Sunday, meet at the Frick Park Environmental Center at 2005 Beechwood Boulevard for our Mother's Day Run.  

Bring coffee!  There should be enough seating areas there so you may not need your chairs.

May 2nd Run/Walk: Like last week, meet at Biddle's Escape in Wilkinsburg

Last week we sat outside Madeleine's bakery and it was delightful, so the vote is for a repeat, and this time it won't be so chilly.  Coffee is better from Biddle's so let's park and start from there: 401 Biddle Ave.  We'll choose our own adventure.

Not sure where runners went last Sunday but walkers found yet another winding path through Frick Park and later smelled the gorgeous lilacs, and visited some masked monkeys who evidently hadn't heard the latest liberating rules from the CDC.  Are we going to comply, be performative, join the culture war?  What will we do with our enormous mask wardrobe?  As always, stay tuned.

Last week we mulled over the several thousand candidates for the upcoming judicial, etc. elections - it's a baffling ordeal.  We decided not to come up with recommendations - just find your best election guru and listen up.  

But we are recommending:

Watch:  Brittany runs a marathon, The Crown (I think this is in here for the 4th time)

Upholstery:  

Grimes Interiors

Betty's Upholstery (no website, a sort of recommendation in itself, but at 415 Butler St, Etna, PA.) 

Shoes:  Mojo Running and Multisport, in Cranberry

Read: Confessions of a Wall Street Shoeshine Boy

Listen: Stooping turns trash to treasure 

More treasure: Antique mall in Verona

April 25th Run/Walk: Meet at Biddle's Escape in Wilkinsburg - and bring blankets

It might be just warm enough to sit outside at Biddle's - we'll try.  The run/walk will start from there - to who knows where - it's at 401 Biddle Ave.  If the line at Madeleine's isn't too long, we might be able to grab some of their outrageously caloric kouign amanns.  Better make that a long run.

Last week was kind of perfect - so much to examine and critique that's being built on the strip, a spooky gorgeous mist over the river, an actual table in the sun at La Prima - almost normal!   

Endorsements:

• For judge (there will be more of these to come I'm sure) Jill Beck, Sabrina Korbel, Lisa Middleman.
• Houses in the news: Garfield tiny house v. Fox Chapel monster house.
• Quantum Theater's next project: a musical called the Current War about Westinghouse and Edison, which will take place at Westinghouse park. By the screenwriter of the movie of the same name.  His name is Mitnick.  Tesla's in it too.

• 412 Food Rescue! Rescuing people too during the pandemic.
• Arcade Comedy Theater - with outdoor shows starting that night.
• A future return to RG Happy Hour - maybe at the Over Eden rooftop in Lawrenceville - they say "no food, just drinks" - should be fine!

April 18 Run/Walk: Meet at the Strip - Penn and 21st Street - should be enough street parking

This week we'll explore everything that's been happening on the Strip in the last year - a lot!  Meet at Penn and 21st, park on the street.  Coffee either at La Prima if we're feeling yinzer or Atelier de Fer (200 Smallman) if we're feeling chichi.  Bring a chair - who knows where we can sit.  Though it looks like it will be a bit, ah, chilly - maybe bring blankets.

Normality is creeping back!  On Sunday we had a real run, walk, coffee and kibitzing.  We wore shorts and ate pastries.  We climbed a new overlook and found a new cafe (cutesy but not overly Beans 'N Cream!)  Beth, resident scientist, explained the unusual water infrastructure.  There was some bouncing. 

Endorsements:

• Also discovered in Aspinwall: Farmer x Baker, farm to table (now takeout) restaurant in a shipping container on the riverfront.
• Airbnb's where you don't have to deal with the owners.  
• Vintage nut crushers
• La Fermiere yogurt at the co-op - could be dessert and comes with adorable ceramic cups, especially the red ones in February.
• Swimming with the fishes - at lakes in Keystone and Moraine State Parks

April 11 Run/Walk: Aspinwall Riverfront Park, 285 Riverview Ave., along the Allegheny River

Let's meet at the Aspinwall Riverfront Park, 285 River Ave., and get acquainted again with that adorable district. Why a sudden change in our location, which we agreed would be spring-infused Frick Park again?  This is why. Thanks to an alert from our roving correspondent Aimee, I figured we should probably avoid a run-in with a very large snake identified by the Pittsburgh Zoo as a Black Rat Snake, and also described as "massive." Even if they catch it - what if it had babies?  And let's hope that bear hightails it out of Mt. Washington.  

Also I checked with this coffee place that is a few blocks from the park and they will be open at 7:30 am on Sunday.  We can get takeout from there, or maybe they have outdoor seating.  At any rate, there should be a place to kibitz at the park.  Maybe bring a chair.

Last week we were worry-free about scary fauna as we navigated the Riverside Trail and are pretty sure that we sighted the faraway windmills of the Laurel Highlands.  We got a little lost which was delightful. 

In non-threatening-wildlife news:

• Shout-out to Erika!
• Prantl’s bakery is coming to Squirrel Hill on Forbes Ave in the building next to the Dollar Bank.  (Who else thinks that the almond torte is seriously overrated?)
• We recalled this awesome article about Max’s Dad at 101.
• Inspiration for Sunday's location - future trails from Aspinwall up to the East End and down to Verona.
• Galit sends this, from a PA doctor (actually this is about threatening wildlife):  If anyone is looking for a covid vaccine(Pfizer), call the Heritage Valley Health System at 724-770-7555.  They have a TON of openings starting next week, and the call center said they are being instructed to be very flexible in their scheduling as to not waste vaccines.  So even if you are not 1A, I recommend you call and ask!  The clinics are in Robinson and Monaca.

April 4 Run/Walk: Trying again: Blue Slide Park entrance (Beechwood at Nicholson in Squirrel Hill)

Repeat due to the rain last week (that actually disappeared from 7-8) - we'll investigate whether one really can see the Laurel Highlands windmills from the Riverview Trail in Frick Park.  We'll start at the Blue Slide itself.  And it will be Easter, and the last day of Passover, and springtime, so just think about that.  Can we breathe yet?

Zoom will follow more or less at 8:15 and the link is  https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon.

Last zoom was a needed pickup on a dismal morning with discussions of:

• Iranian New Year virtual group flower arranging
• Dancing on Friday evening in Highland Park has begun!  Besides Wendy and Sky's 6:30 Zumba, check out Bhangra, African, all kinds - how can this not be fun?
• Watch:  Shtisel returns to the small screen, and the group insists that it gets better and better.  I just need to get beyond that cuisine.  
• More on vaccines - evidently a profuse supply at the ACMH Hospital in Kitanning
• New rules on greeting long-missed grandchildren: dry hugging but no slobbering.

March 28 Run/Walk: Meet at Blue Slide Park entrance (Beechwood at Nicholson)

In our last outing, there was serious skepticism expressed about the vaunted claim that you can see the Laurel Highlands windmills from the Riverview Trail.  OK, we are going to investigate.  We'll meet at Blue Slide Park, get on the trail to check it out, and absorb some Frick Park forest bathing in the process. 

Zoom will follow more or less at 8:15 and the link is  https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon.

Last Sunday we had the thrill of 9 of us finally together IN PERSON (though still masked, outside, distanced) in Highland Park and witnessing this sunrise happen the whole time.

And, made it back in time for a nice convo on the zoom.  Many endorsements:

• There's a Facebook group that my daughter says has excellent tips for finding vaccines.  If you're  currently boycotting FB (with reason) you might want to temporarily get back just for this. You have to join the group to see the info.
• Sharon also reports that ACHD (Allegheny County Health Department) has LOTS of vaccines for 1A people.
• If you're not 1A, and you have a day to non-medically volunteer at a vaccine site, you can register at the Allegheny County Medical Reserve Corps and they will literally give you a shot and a promise of #2. (No guarantees though - but you'll still have done a mitzvah.)
• Speaking of a mitzvah, Gretchen is running the half marathon to raise funds for the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank - every dollar buys 5 meals - support it here!
• Sacroiliac sufferers (turns out we have several including me) (OMG this is pathetic) the Serola Belt is recommended.  So is ousting the Trump administration.  But if you weren't on the call, you missed that story.  
• Need a good clean bathroom right off the PA highways?  Sheetz!
• Listen: NPR Throughline podcast on the history of facemasks, with attention to bras, which were famously put to this use by Lainy in the pandemic early days.  Please send photo.
• Read:  The Rose Code by Kate Quinn; The Pull of the Stars by Emma Donaghue
• Airplane travel now:  Fly Delta which still limits the number of people on the plane - double mask, don't touch things or eat, get off and on fast.  This does not sound like a vacation.
• But, if you have endured all that and arrived in Massachusetts - visit the Blue Hills Trailside Museum.

P.S. Can anyone recommend a good upholsterer that doesn't cost a fortune?  

March 21 Run/Walk: Meet at Highland Park entrance - and zoom in at 8:15 this time

It looks like it will be frigid again on Sunday morning, but because we're tough, and it will be the 2nd day of Spring, and we are really sick & tired of staying inside - how about if we meet at the entrance to Highland Park on Sunday at 7 - to see the sunrise over the reservoir and other neighborhood treats we have been missing.  Plenty of room to space out, and plenty of reasons to space out too.

Then zoom in at 8:15 this time (to give people time to get back to warm kitchens.)  Link:  https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

From last week there's really no run/walk news, but it was great to see Billie again on zoom (remember, expats, you can join any Sunday!)  Endorsements:

• ZUMBA with Wendy and her nephew Sky!  Highland Park Entrance, tomorrow: Friday, March 13, 5:30 pm. 
• You can see the Laurel Highlands and its windmills from a bench on the Riverview Trail in Frick Park - to be verified on a run soon.
• Gretchen's choir is singing again, masked.
• Bird watching outside the Environmental Center in Frick Park - they have posters with photos for people like me who can only identify robins.
• Jane Fonda - and OMG do you remember this (watch the trailer). Who else did it hundreds of times? Now she's 84 and getting arrested for climate protests. (Also: a shameless plug for my daughter Eve's interview with her last week.)
• Evidently you can rent the whole Penn Hills Cinema for $25 and invite your nearest and dearest and vaccinated.
• Watch:  Will Smith's Amend: the Fight for America
• Read: A Gentleman in Moscow
• Drink:  Lagavulin whiskey, delish! But if it's not available, any whiskey.

March 7 Run/Walk/Schmooze: We're heading out! Meet at Frick Environmental Center Parking Lot

Let's show some love to Frick Park!  It should be OK to run or walk on the trails on Sunday - nighttimes will be below freezing so there is no mud, but all the ice is gone, the light is returning, the paths are solid.  Right now the park has an otherworldly look, with miles of visibility through the naked trees. Atmospheric!  Also many, many birds.  So let's meet at the Frick Environmental Center parking lot and wander around.  Then we'll return to zoom at 8 from home, and reminisce about discovering the big fire at that spot long ago.

Here's the link:  https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

Last week at 6:45 it was pouring and I thought, no way anyone is going to venture out, and went back to bed, but as usual I was wrong - the rain stopped at exactly at 7 and brave Lainy and Janet were out there. The rest of us just logged on as usual.  

Endorsements:

• The Squirrel Hill Market - I didn't even know it was there!
• The Panda Supermarket, also in Squirrel Hill - evidently no need to go to the strip for your miso.
• Making no real change in behavior after your vaccine until the coast is clear - advice from Dr. Sharon which should always be followed.  Really, Texas should just secede.
• Listen:  Barack and Bruce, "archetypally boomer" says the New Yorker. Also Rashida Jones and Bill Gates 
• Watch:  The Sapphires (Netflix), Behind Her Eyes (also Netflix), Little America (Apple TV?)
• Read: James McBride anything.  
• Libby app from Carnegie Library:  audiobooks and e-books. Stop wasting time with that online garbage (note to self.)

Feb. 28 Run/Walk: We'll try Forbes and Murray, that old favorite, at 7, masked of course. And/or see you on zoom at 8

Hi everyone - I wasn't there so no story or endorsements this week.  For Sunday, Lainy suggests a real-life meetup!  Forbes and Murray at 7 if you feel like it.  If not, we'll meet at any rate on zoom at 8.

Here's the link:  https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

Maybe we're on the upswing!                                

Feb. 21 Run/Walk/Do Down Dog: Breathe deeply and meet at 8 on zoom

On Sunday I'm afraid I'll be out again - getting my 2nd vaccine! and prepared to be knocked out for a day or so.  One of you is elected to be next week's chronicler.  No pressure.  

Here's the link for Sunday at 8:  https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

Last week we were planning to venture out finally, but were foiled by icy sheets everywhere - and those of us who recall that fateful ice-covered excursion years ago, when we crawled across Forbes Ave. on hands and knees, were grateful to see Aimee safe at home.

Two weeks of endorsements:

• 
  Frick Park, Winter Wonderland:  
  
• Millvale - on the wish list for whenever we run outside together again.
• Women organizing to get COVID vaccine appointments for others as an act of love.  Women, of course!
• Watch:  
• The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, featuring the late, great Cicely Tyson
• Call My Agent! on Netflix - Ooh la la! - also Firefly Lane
• Little America - only on Apple TV but they have a free 7-day trial
• Peter Pan, the original with Mary Martin
• Hamilton and Moana (together?)- on Disney
• Listen:  Two great Moth sessions - Amanda Gorman and Mary-Claire King
• Support:  Girty’s Woods Benefit Concert, March 17, 7-9 pm.  Live stream from Mr. Smalls  - will benefit the acquisition and permanent preservation of Girty’s Woods, a 155-acre green space in Reserve Township adjacent to Millvale and Shaler.  Buy tickets here.
• Laurel Ridge cross country skiing
• The Moscow Mule - makes me think:  is it time for Bloody Mary's on a Sunday am?  I mean, Smoothies are great but...

Feb. 14 Run/Walk/Eat Bonbons: just share the love on Sunday at 8 a.m.

Sorry, everyone - I'm on obsessive impeachment watch, so here's the link for Sunday:

https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

and we'll report more next week!

Feb. 7 Run/Walk/Meditate: find your bliss and then come back to zoom at 8

Does anyone else experience an entire week that seems to last only 2 days?  Shouldn't pandemic-time be the opposite of that?  Let's at least get a good hour in on Sunday at 8.  Here's the link:

https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

Eleven days into a Normal and Benign Presidential Administration, we are back to discussing tights that "stay on and make your butt look good."  It's heavenly.   Endorsements:

• Those tights - Zyia, especially the ones that glow in the dark.
• Cross-country skiing - there is snow! - at Kooser State Park and Laurel Ridge.  
• 
  David's hand-lettered puzzles (photo).  Also Zig Clean Color Real Brushes which are essential.
• Lainy found this:  vaccinatepa.org - best way so far to find a COVID vaccine near you.
• Gmundner one-of-a-kind pottery
• All that fancy old china you may have stuck in cabinets - bring it out and use it.  Throw it in the dishwasher!  YOLO.
• Amateur recipe books. Viz. recipe from the Three Rivers Cookbook I for "Burger Bundles":  1 lb. ground beef, 1/3 can evaporated milk, 1 cp. Pepperidge Farm stuffing, 1 can golden mushroom soup. Mix milk with ground beef.  Mold meat around stuffing to form balls.  Place in an 8x8" pan, add soup, and bake for one hour.  The Three Rivers Cookbook II is for sale for $902.81.
• Fetterman for Senate!  Even though "he has an expression like he just murdered someone."
• Return of Tom!  Even though he looks like Rumpelstiltskin now. We still love him.
• Listen: The Ezra Klein Show podcast
  
• Read: The Education of an Idealist by Samantha Power
• And now a word from our sponsor (me) - there is a Town Hall on Feb. 17 (4 pm) about the new pro-Republican gerrymandering effort about to ramp up in the PA legislature - it's from Fair Districts PA, which has been a valiant warrior on this issue for years. If interested, more info and an RSVP here.

Jan. 31 Run/Walk/Lie around: We're still on pandemic watch: just get on the zoom at 8 and we'll hang out

Here's the link for zooming at 8 on Sunday:   https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

I missed last week's virtual klatch to brave the wilds of Peters Township to get my 65+ vaccine, so there's not much more to tell - you'll just have to join on Sunday for more news!  

Though there is this (more hope)

January 24 Run/Walk/Dance: Do your thing and then join the zoom at 8

Before anything else,  THE RELIEF, THE JOY!!!

And now about Sunday:  wherever you come from, join the zoom at 8!  Here's the link:

https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

(But I'll miss you all because I have a VACCINE appt. (never was I so glad to be an old person) at 8:45 am for which I have to drive to Peters Township, where I have never been, but what the hell - I'll go wherever!)

Zoom lends itself to so many endorsements:

• Joanne, true badass that she is, having delivered the election, is now taking on vaccine distribution in Allegheny County.  In her spare time she is training for her Nth triathlon.  Wonder Woman!
• Meanwhile, Dr. Sharon is giving a seminar in "Development of Vaccines for COVID-19"
• There is a map which shows where vaccines are available in PA (scroll down), which you have to expand until you can see the dots in our area, and then click on the green ones, and then call every one.  Lainy explained it all.  If you do get an appt., dress warmly and bring mittens for the line.
• Smoothies!  Janet and Wendy suggest any frozen or fresh fruit, greek yogurt, some kind of milk or juice, hempseed, kale, coconut water, and/or protein powder.  A glass straw is very desirable, as is a Vitamix.  
• We learned that evolutionary biology - involving some kind of blood barrier - protects the scrotum but not the ovaries - what's up with that?!  Quoted: "Men love their sperm."  
• Podcast Chameleon deserves another mention because it's addictive 
• Peanut butter whiskey - may also be addictive
• Watch movies:  Soul and One Night in Miami 
• Play: the Spelling Bee Crossword
• Make: more mittens from this pattern (this is the one we use) especially now that Bernie has made them famous!

Jan. 17 Run/Walk/Stay-in-bed: But please join the zoom at 8 - link in the message:

It might be snowy, but we can still be out there at 7 on Sunday.  Or not.  

Either way, please check in at 8 right here:

https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

Much valuable information is exchanged in this heady forum!  For instance:

• Another endorsement for Harvie Farms CSA.  Aimee found it, and now I'm a fan too.  They work with all the good farms we buy from at the farmer's markets in the summer.
• Speaking of CSA's, Aimee also found this moving story about how the Kretschmann farm is shutting down after being a major presence in local organic farming since 1979.  I remember Don and Becky at the first farmer's markets I went to in Pittsburgh, just a few years after that.  Oy, does this mean I have to re-subscribe to the PG after the 3rd time I quit in disgust?
• Our pal the Lieut. Gov may be Senator some day
• Watch: video about Fifth Season farm in Braddock, which features Gisele Fetterman and is also one of the farms that Harvie works with so brings this entire segment together.  Ah, Pittsburgh!
• Read 
• historical fiction:  Alice Network and The Huntress by Kate Quinn, Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate, All the Light we Cannot See by Anthony Doerr.
• mystery series writers Louise Penny and Jacqueline Winspear.
• A Promised Land by Barack Obama, also read by him in audiobook, where you can hear the voice of reason and humanity.
• A Most Beautiful Thing by Arshay Cooper about an all-Black rowing team
• Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo
• Born a Crime by Trevor Noah
• Listen to: The Daily: How They Stormed Congress, Chameleon: Hollywood Con Queen, Reply All: Man of the People

Jan. 10 Run/Walk: like Groundhog Day: Your Choice at 7, zoom at 8 - link in message

For Sunday - it's like Groundhog Day:  Your Choice at 7, zoom at 8 - and here's the link: https://pitt.zoom.us/j/97642356094?from=addon

But last week we actually had a real New Year's Day walk! A tonic to clear the mind and heart after a toxic year.  Despite predictions of a scary ice storm, all was clear and Wendy, Gretchen, Max and I had a picturesque speed walk through two cemeteries (2020 is dead to us) visiting the Mellons, Fricks, and other robber barons.

And from the Sunday zoom, multiple endorsements:

• Much needed sustenance from a G&T made from Monkey 47 Gin and Fever Tree Tonic. Will determine where to get them this week.  If this hasn't been a week for getting plastered I don't know one - much to discuss.
• Also a Bourbon Old Fashioned will do
• This comfy bra which you can get at Costco.
• Costco will also deliver (?) 50 roses for $39.99.
  
• Photo of Joanne in Washington Post - from November but more relevant than ever!
  
• Watch:  Return from ISIS, Nailed It documentary about nail salons, Quincy Jones biopic, 40-year-old Version
• Listen: Reply All podcast
• Do all of this while sewing cashmere mittens and using a magnetic pincushion.
• The old clothing stores on Forbes:  Marvin's, London Dock, Newman's.  Now it's all about noodles.