Back in 2011, we showed you our system for drying dog boots. Today we bring you an alternative system that you can purchase, if you don't feel like putting together our hack.
This is billed as aPlastic Bag & Bottle Dryer over on Amazon and it get great reviews for that purpose. We immediately saw it as a place to dry up to eight dog boots. It can hang or sit on a table or counter and can fold to be stored with the boots when winter is over.
We Still Love Our Hacked System
Our Westie Poppy's Pawz Dog Boots are still drying on chopsticks. Over the years, we improved on the container we're using to store them between trips outside.
Now the chopsticks holding the wet boots are secured at a good angle by a daisy Mason jar lid. This lid was designed for scented candles or for drinking with a straw. But we think it's perfect for our purpose. You can even find them in colors to match the boots – if your dog is fashion forward.
We have lots of mason jars on hand because we use them to store everything from paper clips to flour. And we have an extra large container with an assortment of mason jar tops that serve many purposes. That makes this hack a natural for us.
You can use our system for gloves or mittens with wood dowel rods and a larger jar with some sand or beans added to weigh down and stabilize the system.
I still remember a conversation I had years ago on a Beacon Hill corner when a shivering young woman asked, "How do you stand this cold?" She was from Alabama, here caring for a hospitalized family member.
January 2018: Since many readers are finding this archive post on Google we thought we would update it a bit with a few new items and feature it.
Tip #1 Silk or Wicking Long Underwear
My quick answer was, "Silk Long Johns and layers of cashmere." When the traffic light changed and we parted ways, I realized just how true that quip was and what a difference those items have made in my cold weather walks.
Unless you are oblivious to the cold (like the guy in the photo above), you will likely feel Boston's sudden changes in temperature.
Silk or Merino wool long underwear (or one of the wicking fabrics, if you are exercising) is a great first layer for a personal insulation system. Not only will it help when you're outside, but it also will allow you to drop your thermostat a few degrees at home.
It keeps you warm, but also breathes, so it's not uncomfortable when you're in a warm place. There are dozens of types with shorter lengths that work for dresses and skirts as well as slacks.
Tip #2 Cashmere
Gilda Radner once said, "I base my fashion taste on what doesn't itch." I like that thought and I like cashmere because it doesn't itch. What's more, layers of cashmere seem to keep me warmer than the bulk of other fabrics.
Years ago, I bought a cashmere, zippered cardigan for Ed. He raved about it as a warm layer. Looking for something like that for myself, I found a black cashmere hoodie. I've added to my cashmere collection over the years. Those sweaters are a treasured part of my winter defense. I wear hoodies over cashmere turtlenecks and zip or unzip to suit my needs throughout the day. On a very cold day, I'll pull up the hoodie and put a hat over it.
Tip #3 Hats, Scarfs, and Gloves
I also had a warm hat on the day I spoke to the shivering woman. She didn't. I wear hats so often that one neighbor said he almost didn't recognize me without one. If my hat doesn't cover my ears, (here's a style that can) I wear a pair of 180s as well. (They even make 180s with headphones built in.)
My cashmere wardrobe continues with thin cashmere gloves that not only are perfect for early season days, but also will fit under mittens when the weather becomes totally unreasonable. And my coat collar is held in place with a cashmere scarf that I can pull up over my face if needed.
Yes, cashmere can be expensive, but I shop sales and take care of the items I buy. What's more, I don't have the time or space to deal with a big wardrobe. I prefer having a few good, classic items to having the latest clothing fad.
Tip #4 Waterproof Boots
My choice for early morning walks is Merrell Waterproof Hiking Boots. You may have your own favorite brand that fits your feet and makes them happy.
In 2017 we both added boots with Vibram Arctic Grip on the soles to avoid slipping on wet ice. We have tested them on some icy days and feel they are worth the investment if they prevent a fall. We both choose Merrell boots but this sole is available on a number of brands.
Tip #5 Wool Socks
Inside those waterproof boots, I wear warm wool socks. My choice is 30 Below Thermal Winter Socks made of merino wool.
Tip #6 Handwarmers
See the well-dressed-for-the-cold gentleman with the dogs in the photo above? That's Dan, and he's a dogwalker in Boston. I interviewed him to get his best tips for walking dogs in the cold.
While the stick won't keep you warm in and of itself, it may help you stay upright, dry, and moving at a better pace – and that will keep you warmer. Here's a post we did on that topic, Do You Use a Walking Stick in Boston When It's Icy?
Naturally, you can use what you already have to layer and choose warm footwear to keep from taking a cold fall. If we missed your favorite tip, add it in the comments below.
From NOAH here is how to layer.
Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!
I still remember a conversation I had years ago on a Beacon Hill corner when a shivering young woman asked, "How do you stand this cold?" She was from Alabama, here caring for a hospitalized family member.
January 2018: Since many readers are finding this archive post on Google we thought we would update it a bit with a few new items and feature it.
Tip #1 Silk or Wicking Long Underwear
My quick answer was, "Silk Long Johns and layers of cashmere." When the traffic light changed and we parted ways, I realized just how true that quip was and what a difference those items have made in my cold weather walks.
Unless you are oblivious to the cold (like the guy in the photo above), you will likely feel Boston's sudden changes in temperature.
Silk or Merino wool long underwear (or one of the wicking fabrics, if you are exercising) is a great first layer for a personal insulation system. Not only will it help when you're outside, but it also will allow you to drop your thermostat a few degrees at home.
It keeps you warm, but also breathes, so it's not uncomfortable when you're in a warm place. There are dozens of types with shorter lengths that work for dresses and skirts as well as slacks.
Tip #2 Cashmere
Gilda Radner once said, "I base my fashion taste on what doesn't itch." I like that thought and I like cashmere because it doesn't itch. What's more, layers of cashmere seem to keep me warmer than the bulk of other fabrics.
Years ago, I bought a cashmere, zippered cardigan for Ed. He raved about it as a warm layer. Looking for something like that for myself, I found a black cashmere hoodie. I've added to my cashmere collection over the years. Those sweaters are a treasured part of my winter defense. I wear hoodies over cashmere turtlenecks and zip or unzip to suit my needs throughout the day. On a very cold day, I'll pull up the hoodie and put a hat over it.
Tip #3 Hats, Scarfs, and Gloves
I also had a warm hat on the day I spoke to the shivering woman. She didn't. I wear hats so often that one neighbor said he almost didn't recognize me without one. If my hat doesn't cover my ears, (here's a style that can) I wear a pair of 180s as well. (They even make 180s with headphones built in.)
My cashmere wardrobe continues with thin cashmere gloves that not only are perfect for early season days, but also will fit under mittens when the weather becomes totally unreasonable. And my coat collar is held in place with a cashmere scarf that I can pull up over my face if needed.
Yes, cashmere can be expensive, but I shop sales and take care of the items I buy. What's more, I don't have the time or space to deal with a big wardrobe. I prefer having a few good, classic items to having the latest clothing fad.
Tip #4 Waterproof Boots
My choice for early morning walks is Merrell Waterproof Hiking Boots. You may have your own favorite brand that fits your feet and makes them happy.
In 2017 we both added boots with Vibram Arctic Grip on the soles to avoid slipping on wet ice. We have tested them on some icy days and feel they are worth the investment if they prevent a fall. We both choose Merrell boots but this sole is available on a number of brands.
Tip #5 Wool Socks
Inside those waterproof boots, I wear warm wool socks. My choice is 30 Below Thermal Winter Socks made of merino wool.
Tip #6 Handwarmers
See the well-dressed-for-the-cold gentleman with the dogs in the photo above? That's Dan, and he's a dogwalker in Boston. I interviewed him to get his best tips for walking dogs in the cold.
While the stick won't keep you warm in and of itself, it may help you stay upright, dry, and moving at a better pace – and that will keep you warmer. Here's a post we did on that topic, Do You Use a Walking Stick in Boston When It's Icy?
Naturally, you can use what you already have to layer and choose warm footwear to keep from taking a cold fall. If we missed your favorite tip, add it in the comments below.
From NOAH here is how to layer.
Do you have an Amazon Gift Certificate to use? Or do you need to buy one for a gift? Remember to click over to Amazon from here to support this site!
As a test run for my new Instant Pot, I decided to make this recipe from The Kitchn for Chicken Tikka Masala. Like many recipes that use tomato paste to add depth of flavor, it calls for 2 tablespoons out of the can.
When this happens in our kitchen, we freeze the rest and have one tablespoon dollops ready for the next recipe where it is needed. Here's how Penny does it.
As a test run for my new Instant Pot, I decided to make this recipe from The Kitchn for Chicken Tikka Masala. Like many recipes that use tomato paste to add depth of flavor, it calls for 2 tablespoons out of the can.
When this happens in our kitchen, we freeze the rest and have one tablespoon dollops ready for the next recipe where it is needed. Here's how Penny does it.
Those left over bits of chopped red onion that were pickled add zip to a simple plate of roast chicken with tomato and avocado. If we inspired you to pickle a red onion, consider putting this condiment on the table when you are serving a quick supper and try it with a bunch of food.
Penny also made a very quick guacamole for our lunch on another day adding a bit of lime and a spoonful of these few pickled onions.
Pickling red onions began for me with a red onion that was too big for the recipe I was making. I looked at the half that was leftover, grabbed a mason jar to put it in the refrigerator, and remembered how many times I've tossed out half an onion after it sat for a week or more. Inspired by all my reading on fermentation and pickling, I decided to give that route a try.
I already had a knife in my hand and the onion on a cutting board. I chose to chop the onion, scoop it into a mason jar, and cover it with seasoned rice vinegar to turn that onion half into a super-quick super-easy pickle.
Most of the recipes I found online call for a pickling mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. Those three things are already in the seasoned rice vinegar and since it's Ed's favorite acidic component for salads, I always have it on hand.
The next day, when making tuna salad for lunch, I tossed in some of the onions, cut back on the lemon I was adding for acidity, and loved the result.
In fact, I loved the onion's zesty flavor so much that I topped my serving with an extra spoonful.
A Few Suggested Uses
It is more common to see pickled onions cut into thin slices. You can certainly do that and chop them later if you want to use them mixed into a dish the way I did. Or you can put them on a cheese and salumi tray, sprinkle them on top of tacos, add them to a condiment selection, tuck them into a sandwich, add zest to a burger or brat, or sprinkle them over the sour cream on your baked potato.
Pickling red onions began for me with a red onion that was too big for the recipe I was making. I looked at the half that was leftover, grabbed a mason jar to put it in the refrigerator, and remembered how many times I've tossed out half an onion after it sat for a week or more. Inspired by all my reading on fermentation and pickling, I decided to give that route a try.
I already had a knife in my hand and the onion on a cutting board. I chose to chop the onion, scoop it into a mason jar, and cover it with seasoned rice vinegar to turn that onion half into a super-quick super-easy pickle.
Most of the recipes I found online call for a pickling mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. Those three things are already in the seasoned rice vinegar and since it's Ed's favorite acidic component for salads, I always have it on hand.
The next day, when making tuna salad for lunch, I tossed in some of the onions, cut back on the lemon I was adding for acidity, and loved the result.
In fact, I loved the onion's zesty flavor so much that I topped my serving with an extra spoonful.
A Few Suggested Uses
It is more common to see pickled onions cut into thin slices. You can certainly do that and chop them later if you want to use them mixed into a dish the way I did. Or you can put them on a cheese and salumi tray, sprinkle them on top of tacos, add them to a condiment selection, tuck them into a sandwich, add zest to a burger or brat, or sprinkle them over the sour cream on your baked potato.
For the third time in 6 months, I’ve been part of three different groups that have managed to capture a loose dog on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall. In two cases, no one was with the dog. In the third, the dog had broken free from a prong collar.
Off Leash and Alone
Despite the number of dogs I see off leash in our parks, I still look around to see if I can determine if there is a scofflaw with the dog or if the dog is an escapee.
In the case of a pretty Bichon Frise, a group effort caught her and this mesh water bottle holder and its strap became a temporary leash. A call to the phone number on her tag revealed that her person did not know she was missing. He surmised she must have slipped out when a guest left the house.
My most recent stray was a small, mixed breed. A gentleman called the dog to him and gained control of the collar. The pooch had a license but no owner ID, so a call was placed to Animal Control. I managed to get a length of cable from a passing landscaper and quickly attached it as a makeshift leash.
A neighbor said he would wait with the dog. I went on my way and alerted dog walkers of the pup’s location in case they saw someone searching for a lost animal. When I saw the man again, he reported that the family came to claim the pup.
Poorly Secured, Aggressive Dog
In the third instance, another neighbor was trying to catch a rather aggressive, large, mixed breed. This dog had broken free from a prong collar. I took control of the dog that belonged to my neighbor so he would have two hands to work with and so his dog would be safe from the growling, snapping escapee.
With no hope of getting the pinch collar back on the pooch, we turned the dog's leash into a noose and tried to lasso the animal. We offered treats to tempt the dog, but nothing was working. I had an appointment and had to leave before animal control arrived. Later I learned a young man had joined the fray and was able to hold the dog by its ruff long enough to get the leash around its neck.
Preparation and Prevention!
None of us is a perfect guardian and we’ve all had scary near-escape moments. But there are things you can do to help prevent these situations and to be prepared when you encounter one.
With an anxious dog like our Poppy, extra safety is a priority when we're outside. In addition to her Freedom No-Pull Dog Training Harness (in the photo above) we have a strap connecting her collar to a leash.
With the vast number of off leash dogs I see each day, I now carry an inexpensive slip leash with the pickup bags that are always in my pocket.
Leash or confine your dog when people are coming and going from your home. Especially if a door leading to outdoors is available.
Training is essential. I've been watching puppy Howie (above) grow up and seen how training is paying off. See how nicely he sits and waits when asked. And notice the gentle foot on his leash helping him obey and earn, "Good Boy" praise.
Finally, keep your dog on a short, strong leash with a secure collar or harness. If you have a dog with aggression or fear issues, add a second safety connection.
Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.
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We do a constant rotation of our egg supply. New eggs come in and the older ones are hard boiled. We find that hard boiled eggs are used up quickly around here. In fact, when we are facing a busy week, we may boil a dozen eggs to be sure we have material for quick meals.
We follow all of Jacque's directions if we are going to use the eggs right way. But, most of the time, we stop the cooking by replacing the boiling water with ice water and putting the whole, unpeeled eggs back into the pot.
Then we put them back into their carton marked as "hard boiled."
, I decided to make this recipe from 
by covering it in a double layer of 
and readies a 
to hold the final product.
as her tool of choice and places them on the parchment.
to put it in the refrigerator, and remembered how many times I've tossed out half an onion after it sat for a week or more. Inspired by all my reading on fermentation and pickling, I decided to give that route a try. 
to turn that onion half into a super-quick super-easy pickle. 
.