Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

Let me lead with the highlight of my week: the spin bike that I ordered a couple of weeks ago arrived today – hooray! Yes, you guessed it, I also jumped on the bandwagon and bought a spin bike during the pandemic. No, unfortunately, it’s not a Peloton, but I think I’ll be very happy with the one I ordered nonetheless.

If you recall, I had started regular spin classes at my gym in the spring of 2019 and really, really loved it. When the pandemic hit in March and the gyms were closed down, access to that class disappeared. I got through the summer by running outdoors and doing home workouts, but now that we’re moving into fall and winter and the days are getting longer, a spin bike for home use seemed like the perfect solution for my early morning workouts. And the best part: Jon is excited to use it, too! 

*  *  *

I’m happy to report that the air quality here in the Central Valley has significantly improved over the last few days. The fires are still burning, but the biggest fire close to us, the LNU Lightning Complex is 87% contained at this point. Yesterday morning was the first day since the fires started that we had a good air quality index reading. It’s been a relief!

*  *  *

I am currently reading Mary Trump’s book. I am not sure if it’s a waste of my precious time or a must-read (I guess, I’ll determine it after I finish), but I definitely was intrigued to hear her perspective on her uncle. Have you read or are you planning to read the book?

*  *  *

Speaking of Trump, have you heard of the ‘deferred payroll tax‘ nonsense?  He signed an executive order in August that allows employers to delay the collection of the 6.2% Social Security tax from employees who earn less than $104k annually. Isn’t that the perfect executive order by a president shortly before the election to “boost” his standings with unsuspecting supporters? Some extra money in your pocket sounds great, right? 

Well no, not if it means that your employer will start withholding the deferred amount from your paycheck again early next year. It means you’ll get a slight pay bump in pay this fall, but a significant decrease in pay for the first few months of 2021, because you still owe this money on tax day. So, this whole thing MAKES NO SENSE. People who still have a job don’t need this money right now, I’d argue, and if they do, they’ll for sure not be able to repay it in a few short months. What are we supposed to do? Hold the money in a savings account (that doesn’t even pay interest, ha!) until it’s being recollected again? Not to mention the bureaucratic lift for payroll offices to implement this temporary change in withholdings! 

*  *  *

I’ve been tending to my garden for the last few weeks/months, but nothing is growing. I am not sure why. I think I did see some bees around, but I am not sure if the plants just weren’t pollinated sufficiently? The cucumber plant has a ton of blossoms, but many have shriveled up without producing fruit. The zucchini plants have blossomed, but I also don’t see any beginnings of a zucchini fruit yet. My tomato plant might have given up altogether. It’s a bit of a mystery. Any gardeners with advice? 

TGIF, friends! Enjoy the long weekend!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

It’s been a while since I’ve done a Five Things Friday Check-in, mainly because not much happens week after week. I was saying on Instagram, how I couldn’t believe that we’re already in August. I mean, I know last week was July and after July comes August, but damn, how in the world are we almost 3/4 through this year? Wasn’t it just March a few days ago? 

Have you noticed this week that the days are getting shorter again? I know, we’re still in the middle of summer, but I’m already dreading the darker months of the year. I’ve been really thriving on the early morning runs and long evenings during this pandemic. 

*  *  *

Here’s a little garden update: nothing is happening yet. Well, that’s not true…. when I say nothing is happening yet, I mean, there are no fruits yet. I’ve seen blossoms on both the cucumber and tomato plant and the zucchini plant is also growing. I know I am impatient, and I “only” planted in the middle of June. I guess it’s just that I want the satisfaction of harvesting something because I’ve seen some of your bounties already! 

*  *  *

I’ve been on a smoothie kick lately. Every summer, for a few weeks, I get into smoothies. They’re quick, filling, healthy and nutritious and just a great breakfast option. I can also put my supplements in there. I’ve been sharing my smoothie blends on IG stories lately if you want to check out what goes into mine right now. 

*  *  *

On my grocery run this morning, I picked up Rae Vegan Collagen Boost Powder at Target and the reviews seem pretty good. I used Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides before and I wanted to start taking them again, but I thought I’d give this vegan option a try. Not because I am going vegan, but because I had a (digital) coupon, and that’s always a good excuse to try out new products. Have you used it (or any other item from the brand) before?

*  *  *

I am sure you’ve heard about the devastating explosion in Beirut earlier this week. One of my dear friends is from Lebanon and it breaks my heart to know that she has friends and family there that have been impacted. Please, if you can – and would like to – help, check out this link.

TGIF!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

It’s been so hot here this week. We scratched the triple digits more than once and it’s really too early for this. I’m ready (who am I kidding, I am never ready) for those kinds of temperatures in July and August, but not in May. We usually run our air conditioning for a few hours in the evenings, but the nights are still pretty hot, even with the window open. My best trick is to use a fan and wet washcloth to keep cool at night.

*  *  *

I am sad and angry this week. You’ve surely heard about another killing of an unarmed black man, George Floyd, by police in Minneapolis and you probably also heard the story of a white woman calling the cops on an black man in Central Park (for no other reason than feeling superior), claiming that he was threatening her life when he was simply telling her to leash her dog (as it’s mandatory in the park). What is wrong with people? I am so appalled that these kinds of things keep happening. I mean, really, when is enough enough in this country?

You’re as angry and outraged as I am? Good, because you should be, but let’s not stop at being outraged. Let’s try to actually do something about it. I suggest we start here: 75 things white people can do for racial justice.

*  *  *

This quarantine running thing is the best thing that could have happened to me (silver-lining, anyone?). Since my virtual half marathon a month ago, I haven’t followed a training plan and have just run for fun (and sanity) and I’ve seen some pretty fast paces (for me) when I didn’t even try that hard. Feeling comfortable with paces, that a short while ago I couldn’t even dream of, is a really sweet reward for keeping at it.

*  *  * 

I am very thankful to live where I live right now, as it was reported that the Sacramento metropolitan area has the lowest SARS-CoV-2 infection rate among the 50 largest metros in the USA. That is pretty reassuring that we’re taking the physical distancing seriously over here, but as things are slowly reopening, that doesn’t mean we should start acting carelessly. 

*  *  * 

I’ve recently went to a skin checkup appointment that I had put off for a while. Both my Mom and sister recently had moles removed (out of precaution and none of them turned out to be pre-cancerous, thank goodness), but it definitely pushed me to finally get a checkup again myself. It’s a weird thing to go to the doctor in Corona times, but since they encouraged to keep the appointment, I am really glad I went. I am also happy to report that all my moles (and I have quite a few) look just fine and that none of them needs to be monitored or removed at this time. Phew, what a relief.

The only advice the doctor gave me: since you’re very light-skinned (you don’t say!),  you should wear SPF 30+ at all times (using SPF 50, always!). 

TGIF!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

Okay, friends, I am trying to pick up a somewhat more regular blogging schedule, because this Corona thing is not going away fast and I just miss writing and connecting with you and I don’t just want to post these biweekly (or whenever I can muster the energy) updates and talk about the Corona Life (That sounds way fancier than it actually is, am I right?)

So, Friday check-in posts like this one are a good place to start, IMHO.

My friend Tanja was supposed to be here today and I bummed that our girl weekend got canceled by Corona. We’d be hanging out and having a good time right about now. It’s okay to be disappointed and mope a little about plans that fell through, but I look forward to the time where traveling and hanging out with friends feels normal again.

*  *  *

I got some happy mail in the mail this week: 25 lbs of rye flour. Apparently, rye flour is not as popular as other flour here in the US, because it was still available. If you had told me a few weeks ago that I would get excited about a bulk delivery of basic grocery items (like flour) that have become hot commodities, I would have called you crazy, but here we are.

And, it’s not just me. My Mom, sister have also entered into the realm of bread baking (which, if you live in Germany with access to ALL THE BAKERIES, seems somewhat ridiculous, I’d agree). But, we’re having lively discussions on WhatsApp and VideoCall about how to maintain our sourdough starters, which recipes to try, the best way to bake, and trials and tribulations of baking different things. It’s quite entertaining, but also more often than not ends with delicious things, like this rye bread (hence the big rye flour delivery).

*  *  *

Have you gotten your relief check yet? I was surprised, but we actually had a deposit in our bank accounts last week. While I am thankful for the financial help, I fear that people who really need the help (people who lost their jobs, missed a few paychecks, or work reduced hours) didn’t get anything (or not enough) to get by. I mean, if we’re honest, for most people, the check doesn’t even cover the bare necessities for a month (at least not here in California), but of course, it’s better than nothing. 

*  *  *

Summer is here! Well, maybe not summer, but summer temperatures. I can’t believe it hit 90F/33C here today. I am not quite ready for the heat in April, tbh. Although it has been nice to get out shorts and tank tops and spend time in the backyard. Of course, it’s hard for people to stay home when the weather is nice like this. I hope those of us who can will still stay away from beaches and parks.  How’s the weather where you are?

*  *  *

I finally had to retire my favorite pair of running shoes (I totally wore out the sole), but luckily, I already got a new pair (same shoe, different color) for my birthday, so the farewell won’t hurt too bad. I started breaking them in this week and love them. What do you think? 

TGIF!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

Is everybody freaking out about the Corona Virus yet? I must admit, I am getting a little anxious and I am usually not the anxious kind. While I am not immediately concerned for my health, I do feel though that some drastic measures are in order to #flattenthecurve and make sure that our healthcare system can handle what’s coming, and I am glad to see that a lot of organisations are already taking things seriously (while the administration is still fumbling its way through this pandemic. No words!). NBA season canceled, MLB spring training/season postponed, Pearl Jam concert in April postponed. The campus (where our office is) is still open, but is transitioning its courses online. We haven’t been officially sent home to telework yet, but we’re preparing for it and lots of people are already teleworking. I just heard from my sister that schools in my home state (NRW) and elsewhere in Germany will be closed until Easter.
How are things where you are? Are you concerned? Stockpiling toiletpaper (?) and water? I have to say a lot more about the topic, but maybe in a separate post.

*  *  *

The presidential primary coverage has almost faded into the background with all the Corona Virus news lately. It’s kind of amazing to see how the news cycle shifts in light of more pressing issues, but it’s all the more imperative for people to see how Trump handles this national crisis with regard to the upcoming election. Don’t you wish right about now that somebody else was in charge? Someone who isn’t so self-absorbed that even a pandemic doesn’t trump his ego? 

*  *  *

On a more positive note, I currently live for each and every act of calm, consideration, and  kindness, like this one shared on Twitter.

 *  *  * 

We already got our tax return this week. That was fast, but I guess the sooner you file, the sooner you get your return. I am not mad about it. Since our tax situation is fairly simple, there was no reason to wait. 

*  *  *

Last but not least, thanks for all the birthday wishes earlier this week. I haven’t gotten around to responding to everyone directly, but I wanted to let you know that I appreciated every single message. I took the day off from work (because spending the day with Jon seemed like a better idea than being in the office for 10+ hours) and I had a fun day, but that means that I am working today (on my regular day off) and I am only one of a handful of people at the office.

 

TGIF!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

I had high hopes of getting some more blog posts out this week, but alas, life got in the way. Work got busy, I had some long days, and just didn’t have the time to write. Maybe this weekend. So for now, you get another little update Five Things Friday-style. (I actually quite enjoy this post format on other blogs, so I hope you do, too.)

*  *  *

Did you watch the Democratic debate on Wednesday night? Man, that was one fired up debate. I must say that I hadn’t been vocal about my front runner, but I loved Elizabeth Warren from the start. Looking at her record, it’s just obvious that she’s a fighter, and I’d love to finally have a woman president.
I was pretty bummed that she didn’t do better in the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary, because I really felt that she was one of the two front runners (where did Mayor Pete get his momentum from?). Social Media was all over her the next day! Of course, some people criticized her for being “too mean” or “too angry”, once again showing how women are perceived and judged differently than men. Nobody would say that about any of the male candidates. But honestly, if you haven’t been angry the last 4 years, you probably don’t have a pulse. I really think the debate on Wednesday gave a her huge boost, she had an amazing fundraising effort over night, and I really hope she’ll continue to soar.

*  *  *

Have you started on your taxes yet? I am trying to get ours done this weekend (because why wait, if I have all my tax documents in hand?) and from my first run-through, it looks like we’re getting a refund. Yay! Our tax situation is fairly simple, so I do my own taxes. I also try to re-assess our tax withholdings every year to make sure we’re not paying too much and ‘lending’ money to the government interest-free, but of course, it is nice to get a little bit of money back instead of owing anything when tax day comes around. 

 *  *  * 

I bought some new running tights on clearance this week and I am in love. They’re so pretty.  It’s true what they say (at least for me): pretty workout clothes really boost your motivation. 

*  *  *

I started half marathon training again this week. I am excited about it because I love having a workout plan to follow. It takes the guess work out of your training and I just have to wake up and show up. I am up to 6 workout days per week, which is high for me (I used to do 3-4 days), but I have to take advantage of my current motivation to cross-train more and the need to up my mileage.

TGIF!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

Excuse the absence, friends. My host server was undergoing a migration to a new server (which hopefully will finally solve some of my page’s loading problems, because I don’t think the problem was on my end), but I couldn’t really update my blog while the migration was in progress (I think I already lost some comments in the process, because I thought there were some more comments on my recent book post, but they disappeared. If it was yours, I am sorry.) 

*  *  *

I made this delicious 1-pot Tuscan-style Beef & Lentil Stew this week and you should definitely consider making it sometime before the cold(er) season is over. The combination of ground beef, lentils and kale might seem a little odd, but I promise you, it totally works! Jon has been requesting it again already. 

*  *  * 

I attended an author training class at work last week. At my work-place, publications are everything (well, not everything, but pretty important and I’ve only been co-author on some publications so far.) In all honesty, I should have taken this class a long time ago. I can’t believe I have been here so long and nobody ever suggested I take this class. Just one more thing I missed out on when I was a contractor, I guess, but I am really glad I was finally able to take it. So much valuable information.

*  *  *

You know what the trick is to get 5 miles in on the treadmill before you go to work? Getting to the gym early enough, which means not hitting the snooze button and actually getting out the door and to the gym by 5:15 a.m. at the lastest, so you have time to run and shower and make it to work on time. Mind-blowingly simple, am I right? I’ve been shifting around my workout routine a bit and now have time to run 5 miles before work (on Thursdays) and I like it. 

*  *  * 

Highlight of my week: On Tuesday, I had the pleasure to finally meet a long-time IG and blog friend in person. Kathrin lives in the Bay Area with her family and we’ve been following each other online for quite a while. She was on her way to Tahoe on Tuesday and so she asked if I would be able to meet up for a coffee around lunch time. Of course, I said yes! We took a walk around the park and chatted away for about an hour before she drove on to Tahoe and I went back to work. It was really great to finally meet her in person! #URLtoIRL

TGIF!

P.S. In case you noticed: I didn’t mention Valentine’s Day. We don’t really celebrate it around here, but if you do, have a great Valentine’s Day!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

Well, I thought about posting a lot this week, but the writing part didn’t happen, so I am pledging to write some more over the weekend and finally get a few more “new year’s posts” up next week before January is already over.

*  *  *

I skipped the gym yesterday morning because I either slept through my alarm or turned it off and instantly fell back asleep (probably the later), but I don’t have any recollection of it. Does that ever happen to you? This rarely happens to me and I am surprised, because I was in bed by 9 pm. I guess, my body needed the sleep. I woke up at 6:30 am, startled by the garbage truck outside, and only had time to jump out of bed, get ready and head to work. 

*  *  *

One of our favorite restaurants has a “50 cent wing Monday” and it’s really hard not to go there every Monday for wings. Haha. It’s such a good deal and the wings are delicious! We got a gift card for Christmas, so that gave us an easy excuse to go last week!

*  *  *

I am happy to report that I am actually busy again at work. This week flew by (granted, it was a short week for me with Monday being a holiday) and at the end of the day, I often felt like I needed an extra few hours to get a few more things done. I prefer that over twiddling my thumbs hoping for the clock to hit 6 pm.

*  *  *

Highlight of my week: I scored tickets for the Pearl Jam Tour this spring. Hell yeah! If you know me, you know that I am a huge Pearl Jam fan (name that song in my blog title!) and if you know Pearl Jam, then you know they rarely go on tour and the tickets are always sold within minutes! 

TGIF!

Five Things Friday: just five things I’m thinking about or things that made my week, or things that I otherwise feel like sharing.

You guys, I don’t know why I haven’t thought about this earlier, but if you have some cloves in your spice cabinet, put some in a little bowl on your living room table and enjoy the beautiful Christmassy smell. It’s so lovely.

*  *  *

I have exactly three work days left in 2019. I was already planning to take off the 26th (as this is an official second Christmas holiday in Germany and I insist to have the day off as well), and then on Wednesday, on Impeachment Day, Trump gave all federal employees a day off on Christmas Eve. This might be the only good thing he’s ever done for me. Haha. Since I am planning to facetime with my family on Christmas Eve (when they’re all gathered at my sister’s house), this just makes things a lot easier for me (and I don’t have to find a quiet place during my lunch break to do it). 

*  *  *

I haven’t baked any Christmas cookies yet and will remedy this asap. I am baking Vanillekipferl tomorrow. What’s your favorite Christmas cookie?

*  *  *

I saw my dear friend Susi again last Sunday for the last girl time of this year. We hung out, had tea and even took a dip into the hot tub. Oh, don’t mind if we do!  Just the right thing to do to relax and catch up before the holiday craziness (well, it’s not going to be so crazy around here, actually, but you know what I mean)!

*  *  *

Today is ‘reveal day’ for the Secret Santa Mug Swap 2019. I was hoping to share with you all mugs that have been exchanged this year, but I’ll have to postpone the blog post, as sadly, not all participants have received their packages yet or have posted their mugs. But rest assured, I’ll share as soon as everyone has received their swap packages. In the meantime, go check out the hashtag #secretsantamugswap2019 on Instagram for some sneak peeks! 

TGIF!