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  • Sunday Dog, Maddox – Making New Friends!

    CHE_2662 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Maddox has only just landed in Boston and is already making new friends! Our Poppy introduced us after these two did their get-to-know-you sniffs! Click on Photos to Enlarge!

      CHE_2650 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 
    CHE_2641 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 
    CHE_2645 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Although both 11-months-old, Poppy has most likely had a bit more experience adapting to all the cold, white stuff than her Atlanta pal. But, it didn’t take Maddox long to begin exploring all those frozen flakes.

    CHE_2667 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    So This Is Snow!

    The idea is to stay as close to the ground as possible, that way you can make a split-second decision to roll, romp, or chomp!

    CHE_2658 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Well, it’s obvious to us that our new neighbor has found a fun, new toy – and it’s free! Too bad spring will spoil all the fun (uh-h-h … eventually).

    CHE_2664 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Maddox, you’re gonna love Boston and make lots of new friends. Thanks for being our Sunday Dog!

    Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

    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!

     Details:

    Details:
    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny Cherubino     

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Sunday Dog, Maddox – Making New Friends!

    CHE_2662 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Maddox has only just landed in Boston and is already making new friends! Our Poppy introduced us after these two did their get-to-know-you sniffs! Click on Photos to Enlarge!

      CHE_2650 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 
    CHE_2641 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 
    CHE_2645 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Although both 11-months-old, Poppy has most likely had a bit more experience adapting to all the cold, white stuff than her Atlanta pal. But, it didn’t take Maddox long to begin exploring all those frozen flakes.

    CHE_2667 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    So This Is Snow!

    The idea is to stay as close to the ground as possible, that way you can make a split-second decision to roll, romp, or chomp!

    CHE_2658 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Well, it’s obvious to us that our new neighbor has found a fun, new toy – and it’s free! Too bad spring will spoil all the fun (uh-h-h … eventually).

    CHE_2664 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Maddox, you’re gonna love Boston and make lots of new friends. Thanks for being our Sunday Dog!

    Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

    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!

     Details:

    Details:
    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny Cherubino     

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Sunday Dog, Maddox – Making New Friends!

    CHE_2662 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Maddox has only just landed in Boston and is already making new friends! Our Poppy introduced us after these two did their get-to-know-you sniffs! Click on Photos to Enlarge!

      CHE_2650 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 
    CHE_2641 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino 
    CHE_2645 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Although both 11-months-old, Poppy has most likely had a bit more experience adapting to all the cold, white stuff than her Atlanta pal. But, it didn’t take Maddox long to begin exploring all those frozen flakes.

    CHE_2667 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    So This Is Snow!

    The idea is to stay as close to the ground as possible, that way you can make a split-second decision to roll, romp, or chomp!

    CHE_2658 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Well, it’s obvious to us that our new neighbor has found a fun, new toy – and it’s free! Too bad spring will spoil all the fun (uh-h-h … eventually).

    CHE_2664 - Version 22013-03-10-poppy-westie-maddox-dogs-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    Maddox, you’re gonna love Boston and make lots of new friends. Thanks for being our Sunday Dog!

    Get to know all of our Sunday Dogs at Boston Dogs.

    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!

     Details:

    Details:
    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Penny Cherubino     

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Cool Hydrant Spray: Not Just for Heat Waves

    DSC_2775 - Version 22013-03-22-open-hydrant-flood-commonwealth-avenue-mall-∂© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    The icy cool water from this hydrant on Berkeley Street would be a little more welcome when the temperature rises about 50 degrees. Ed took photos of this gusher and the resulting flood on the Mall's walking path yesterday. He didn't see anyone ready to jump and play in the spray.

    DSC_2761 - Version 32013-03-22-open-hydrant-flood-commonwealth-avenue-mall-∂© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    No one took the opportunity to splash in the wading pool created on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall. Perhaps this was an effort to convince Mother Nature that we are ready for warmer weather.

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401539198f512970b-800wi

    Here's hoping that soon we'll be back photographing people enjoying the fountain at the Christian Science Center. 

    Think Warm, everyone!

    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!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Cool Hydrant Spray: Not Just for Heat Waves

    DSC_2775 - Version 22013-03-22-open-hydrant-flood-commonwealth-avenue-mall-∂© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    The icy cool water from this hydrant on Berkeley Street would be a little more welcome when the temperature rises about 50 degrees. Ed took photos of this gusher and the resulting flood on the Mall's walking path yesterday. He didn't see anyone ready to jump and play in the spray.

    DSC_2761 - Version 32013-03-22-open-hydrant-flood-commonwealth-avenue-mall-∂© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    No one took the opportunity to splash in the wading pool created on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall. Perhaps this was an effort to convince Mother Nature that we are ready for warmer weather.

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401539198f512970b-800wi

    Here's hoping that soon we'll be back photographing people enjoying the fountain at the Christian Science Center. 

    Think Warm, everyone!

    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!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • Cool Hydrant Spray: Not Just for Heat Waves

    DSC_2775 - Version 22013-03-22-open-hydrant-flood-commonwealth-avenue-mall-∂© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    The icy cool water from this hydrant on Berkeley Street would be a little more welcome when the temperature rises about 50 degrees. Ed took photos of this gusher and the resulting flood on the Mall's walking path yesterday. He didn't see anyone ready to jump and play in the spray.

    DSC_2761 - Version 32013-03-22-open-hydrant-flood-commonwealth-avenue-mall-∂© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    No one took the opportunity to splash in the wading pool created on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall. Perhaps this was an effort to convince Mother Nature that we are ready for warmer weather.

    6a00e54fc42bb8883401539198f512970b-800wi

    Here's hoping that soon we'll be back photographing people enjoying the fountain at the Christian Science Center. 

    Think Warm, everyone!

    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!

     Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2013 Ed Cherubino  

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • theKitchn’s Weekend Meditation Is Our Friday Link

    I scan the lastest posts on theKitchn a couple of times a day, but on Sundays I sit and savor Weekend Meditation by Dana Velden. 

    Kitchn Weekend meditation

    These are delicious essays that speak to the heart and soul of those of us who love to cook, eat, and think about life's connections. 

    Last week's, "Don't Wait" is so in keeping with my desire to enjoy each day as it comes along and not save things, treats, or time with the people (and critters) I care about for someday.

    Here's a link to the collection of Weekend Meditations. Let me know what you think. And, if one hits a favorite high note with you, add a comment over there so Dana will know the work is appreciated. 

    Thank you, Dana for all the moments on Sundays when I sit quietly and digest your words.

    What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photos: ©2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino Screenshot coutresy of www.theKitchn.com

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • theKitchn’s Weekend Meditation Is Our Friday Link

    I scan the lastest posts on theKitchn a couple of times a day, but on Sundays I sit and savor Weekend Meditation by Dana Velden. 

    Kitchn Weekend meditation

    These are delicious essays that speak to the heart and soul of those of us who love to cook, eat, and think about life's connections. 

    Last week's, "Don't Wait" is so in keeping with my desire to enjoy each day as it comes along and not save things, treats, or time with the people (and critters) I care about for someday.

    Here's a link to the collection of Weekend Meditations. Let me know what you think. And, if one hits a favorite high note with you, add a comment over there so Dana will know the work is appreciated. 

    Thank you, Dana for all the moments on Sundays when I sit quietly and digest your words.

    What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photos: ©2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino Screenshot coutresy of www.theKitchn.com

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • theKitchn’s Weekend Meditation Is Our Friday Link

    I scan the lastest posts on theKitchn a couple of times a day, but on Sundays I sit and savor Weekend Meditation by Dana Velden. 

    Kitchn Weekend meditation

    These are delicious essays that speak to the heart and soul of those of us who love to cook, eat, and think about life's connections. 

    Last week's, "Don't Wait" is so in keeping with my desire to enjoy each day as it comes along and not save things, treats, or time with the people (and critters) I care about for someday.

    Here's a link to the collection of Weekend Meditations. Let me know what you think. And, if one hits a favorite high note with you, add a comment over there so Dana will know the work is appreciated. 

    Thank you, Dana for all the moments on Sundays when I sit quietly and digest your words.

    What's on your Food Lover's Shopping List? Shop Amazon for all your kitchen & dining needs and support this site!

    Details:

    Words: Penny Cherubino
    Photos: ©2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino Screenshot coutresy of www.theKitchn.com

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.

  • How to Use Your Observational Skills in a Boston Real Estate Search

    This week, we met a very nice couple out on the hunt for a Boston condo. I hope they were out walking around after this week's snow storm. Observing how promptly and how well a building deals with snow removal can be an indicator of the management's concern for good maintenance.

    IMG_1164 - Version 22013-03-19-snow-storm-real-estate-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    If the owners of one of the buildings you're considering have someone get out early and often to shovel a wide path and de-ice their sidewalk, it's likely they have a responsible attitude towards complying with city codes and maintaining the property.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834010536b41783970c-800wi

    You don't want to face icy stairs when you leave your home. Nor, do you want to own part of a building that is the bane of the neighborhood and reported to the city on Citizens Connect after every storm. 

    You could use this map to delete a scofflaw property from your list. Download the Citizens Connect App and look at all of the reports for the area you're considering.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834016764d73e87970b-800wi

    How Does the Garden Grow?

    In the warmer months, you should take a look at the condition of the fencing, stairway, and garden in front of a property. Of course, not all Boston properties have front yards or gardens. But, many condo associations add a bit of color with a potted plant or wreath on the door.

    CHE_2985 - Version 22013-03-17-dead-plants-real-estate-© 2011 Penny Cherubino

    However, if the spring real estate market is on and a pot of dead Christmas decorations is still in place, proceed with caution.

    6a00e54fc42bb88834010535b6409f970b

    Check All Public Views

    In some neighborhoods, public alleys let you check the rear of a property. Not all buildings will have a beautiful rear view like the one above. But, a nicely maintained rear facade is another sign of attention to detail and good neighborliness. And, in some cases, the alley will be the view from your home.

    Stop, Look, Sniff, and Listen

    Once you have a short list of finalists, visit each property a few times on different days and hours. Will the smell of garlic from a nearby restaurant keep your windows closed? Will the sounds of a playgound disturb your peaceful enjoyment? Will parties from a building full of students next door disrupt your sleep?

    In addtion to all the financial checks and due dilligence you should be doing before you buy a Boston condominium, use all your senses to scan the sights, sounds, and smells that might impact your property value or make you want to move a year from now. 

    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!

    Details:

    Words: Penny & Ed Cherubino
    Photography: © 2008-2013 Penny & Ed Cherubino

    Note on Comments: We monitor comments constantly and anything that is pure spam, inappropriate, or nasty is swept away. In addition to readers' comments, we welcome hearing from the people, places, and services we cover. Often, those add great insights for our readers. As long as it doesn’t become a pure ad, we’d love to hear from you. We do reserve the right to edit ads and links out of comments.