Off to College

Morning friends 🙂 How’s your day treating ya? Hope you’re having a beautiful Sunday.

flowers

(Sent from the Pilot! Le swoon)

After this morning’s interval workout, I was *supposed* to have a lil photo shoot. The hairstylist didn’t make it in time from traveling, so we re-scheduled and I resorted to plan B.

Taking out some cookbooks:

cookbook

planning eats for the week

and going food shopping 🙂

bags

I’ve been trying to do better about food budgeting… I tend to just throw things willy nilly into the cart, even when I have a list. I’m hoping to do a food budgeting post in the near future, because it’s definitely something I could improve at! Stoked to say the above stuff was only $57- love Trader Joe’s.

Some recent eats:

brown rice

Brown rice cakes with cashew butter and blueberries

cakes

Snacky plate:

snack plate

_____________________________________________________________________________________

So… today is a bitersweet day.

Viesa is going to live with her new family later this afternoon, who live in Phoenix.

vies

We’ve known that we’d need to find a new home for her for over a year, as she and Bella don’t always get along and last time they fought, Bella ended up badly injured with a trip to the pet hospital. It’s been very difficult making sure the dogs don’t fight and keeping them separated, but we’ve been casually looking for a new home for her because we wanted to be 100% sure she would be in the best possible situation.

Vies is the smartest, sweetest dog, but needs to be in a place where she’s the only pet.

vies

Today she’s going to live with her new family (my mom and I are calling it “going off to college” so it doesn’t feel as sad), and since they’re very good family friends, we’ll still get to see her often.

I’m heartbroken because I’m going to miss her so badly, but at the same time so happy that she’ll be living with an amazing couple who already love her like crazy.

vies (2)

So Viessy is on to be queen of the castle in a new home, with fun new adventures and all of the love and attention she needs.

I’m sure the couple who are taking her will send me pics (and I’ll go up to Phoenix to visit her), so I’ll be sure to share them with the bloggy.

Hope you have a great day and I’ll see ya later with a baking project <3

xoxo

Gina

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110 Comments

  1. Kristina @ spabettie on January 9, 2011 at 3:48 pm

    <3

  2. Sana on January 9, 2011 at 3:50 pm

    Have fun in college, Viesa!!!

  3. RunningOnCoffee on January 9, 2011 at 3:50 pm

    I love that last picture – our greyhound will lay like that too. It’s so great you were able to find a good home for her and that you’ll still be able to see her from time to time! I’m sure that doesn’t make it any easier to drive her off to college though 🙁 You’re doing what’s right for both of your pups though!

  4. Jessica on January 9, 2011 at 3:50 pm

    Aw. Sad panda. But she’s going to be with fam, so yay! Also, could you maybe expand on food budgeting? I have a hard time myself with sticking to a list.

    • Fitnessista on January 9, 2011 at 3:53 pm

      by food budgeting i mean planning out how much you’re going to spend and sticking to it… i never do that and think it would be a good habit to start

  5. Kara on January 9, 2011 at 3:50 pm

    Aw, that’s sad that you have to say goodbye, but I’m Viesa will be so happy being the center of attention. Do you think Bella will notice, or not really since you already have to keep them separate? Will get another dog now, since I seem to remember you said 2 dogs was your limit?

    • Fitnessista on January 9, 2011 at 3:52 pm

      i think bella will be ok- this whole time bella has been staying w me and my roomies and vies has been at my mom’s house

  6. Emma (Sweet Tooth Runner) on January 9, 2011 at 3:50 pm

    Oh no, that is sad! But it’s great that you’ve found a couple who will love her and keep you up to date, rather than putting her into a dogs home or something where there’s no guarantee of that.

    I’m sure she’ll grow to love college, don’t worry 🙂

  7. Ashley @ quasichick on January 9, 2011 at 3:51 pm

    Hugs to you <3

  8. Katelyn on January 9, 2011 at 3:51 pm

    I’m so sorry:( I know what it was like losing my dog, but at least you get to still get pictures and hopefully visit! Just remember you’re doing the right thing for Vies. I’m a strong believer in karma:)

    Slash I luuurve baking, it better include a recipe!

  9. Katie on January 9, 2011 at 3:52 pm

    Awwwwwwwww Im so glad though that you found her a wonderful home : ) that is a great feeling to know she will be the queen : ) and it’s great you can visit her too!

    Love the beautiful flowers! So sweet! Happy Sunday! xoxo

  10. Erin on January 9, 2011 at 3:52 pm

    Good Luck! I can’t imagine having to giveaway such a sweet pup, I would be so heartbroken! I’m sure she’ll be very happy at college =)

  11. Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat on January 9, 2011 at 3:53 pm

    Aww I’m sure Viesa has some very loving new owners. I can’t wait to see your food budgeting post because it’s one of my biggest goals this year and I’m determined to do it properly (I’ve already done some posts on it, but I need to take my own advice!!) Would love to hear some of your tips too. 🙂 Have a great evening Gina!

  12. Jess @moderngirlsguide on January 9, 2011 at 3:54 pm

    So sorry to hear about Viesa having to leave you. They are like your children so I know it must be hard but at least you know she is going to some fab peeps and will have loads of fun being queen of the castle. xx

  13. Kristy @ KristyRuns on January 9, 2011 at 3:54 pm

    Ooooh! She’s so precious! Reminds me a lot of my pup, the way she sleeps. 🙁

    That plate with hummus looks yummy!

  14. Kate @ Ordinary Girl, Extraordinary Journey on January 9, 2011 at 3:55 pm

    Awww I’m sure this is hard for you. I know how pets can really become like family members. But it’s what’s best for her and for Bella… It’s wonderful though that she’s going to live with friends so you can see her again!!

  15. Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete on January 9, 2011 at 3:57 pm

    I need to start budging when it comes to our grocery shopping too even though I have a list. I’m really good at spending 50 bucks on like 4 or 5 items. Bad!

  16. Hollie on January 9, 2011 at 3:58 pm

    I agree so much. I always just throw things into the cart no matter if I have a list. It’s a bad habit that I have for realz.

  17. Amanda on January 9, 2011 at 4:01 pm

    🙁 I’m so sorry – I can’t imagine what a difficult decision is, but it’s so wonderful that you were able to find her a loving home.

  18. Heather C on January 9, 2011 at 4:05 pm

    I hope Viesa does get at “college”, I love how you’re looking at it – those little things help, don’t they? I’m sorry it worked out that way, but I’ll say a prayer you have peace with it too!

    On another note, good job Pilot! and good job with the grocery shopping – it’s SO hard to stick to the budget!

  19. alexandra on January 9, 2011 at 4:06 pm

    I just went through the exact same thing few months ago, having to give up one of mine I had since he was a puppy (thankfully he went to family not too far away). It def can be hard having 2 dogs of the same gender (and breaking up fights can be kind of traumatizing) but its def. for the better. you’ll prob cry (I bawled like a baby haha) but you’re def doing the right thing. Im sure Viesa will love her new home! 🙂

  20. Kris | iheartwellness.com on January 9, 2011 at 4:15 pm

    oh doll, I am sorry to hear about Viesa is growing up and heading off to college…..

    I am all tearing up over here! I was thinking of getting Hudson a brother, but now I am not so sure.

    Smiles!

    xxoo

  21. Sara on January 9, 2011 at 4:16 pm

    This makes me sad…but it is the smart thing to do. <3

  22. Allison @ Food For Healing on January 9, 2011 at 4:18 pm

    aw i’ll miss viesa, but happy that she will most likely be spoiled by her new family, so glad you found a great home with people you know, and that we can still see that furry face now and again.

    i would love to hear your food budgeting tips! i’m definitely working on that, since i just start my exercise regime or 4-5days a week, which doesn’t leave me much time for shopping, plus i like to try and save money,who doesnt.

  23. Jessica (FitandClean) on January 9, 2011 at 4:22 pm

    Awwww! How sad for you! 🙁 I understand about the fighting, though. We wanted to adopt another dog from the animal shelter and we had to bring Biscuit in to see if she would get along with some of the dogs. She’s REALLY dominant so we had to find a dog that wasn’t. It was hard! My husband got bit on the hand in the process too! But we eventually found Tin Man and he’s a sweet dog, and they seem to get along well. 🙂

  24. Alayna @ Thyme Bombe on January 9, 2011 at 4:24 pm

    Aw, sorry to hear Viesa is moving out. I’m glad you found an ideal situation for her though, show’s you really love her. 🙂

  25. Rachel on January 9, 2011 at 4:26 pm

    I hope it works out well for Viesa. I had a similar situation a few years ago, my golden retriever had puppies and we decided to keep one, only she turned out to be the least friendly golden ever, she attacked her mom about once a month. We decided it was time to get her a new home and now she is the only dog in her new home, she lives just a few blocks away and we still get to see her.

  26. Averie (LoveVeggiesAndYoga) on January 9, 2011 at 4:27 pm

    Oh Gina, what a bittersweet day for you…knowing you are doing something you need to do with Viesa, but of course, this has got to be so hard for you. At least she is close in Phx, and you can go visit. But gosh, major hugs honey 🙂

    Food budgeting…after having a baby and for awhile being on one income in So Cal where nothing is cheap, food budgeting just HAD to happen. I have done a few posts on it and how I save at the groc store and can’t wait to hear your little tips and tricks!

    And sorry about the no-show hair girl. Nothing like getting all ready to go…and having someone else not make it.

    Good luck today, major hugs!!! 🙂

  27. Mandy (theamazonprincess) on January 9, 2011 at 4:27 pm

    What a little sweetie Viesa is! I’m sorry that you had to find her a new home, but everything will end up being okay I’m sure :).

    p.s. I finally started a blog after thinking about it for almost two years! So I will be commenting more often and not lurking in the shadows.

  28. rachelgab on January 9, 2011 at 4:34 pm

    I had to give up my doggie to another family after I had him for 7 years. It was the best thing for him and I found him a great home but it’s a year and half later and I still miss the guy. It’s really tough. Hang in there.

  29. Jen F. on January 9, 2011 at 4:39 pm

    Hugs to you and Viesa today!!! It will all work out! We follow a monthly budget which includes everything from weekly groceries to vehicle maintenance, annual vehicle tags down to hair products and dinners out so money can be set aside appropriately. Although it is frustrating to be disciplined sometimes, it’s worth it when our goals are met and you don’t have to come up with a wad of money when annual expenses come due! Eager to read your post!

  30. Faith @ lovelyascharged on January 9, 2011 at 4:46 pm

    Awww. She seems like such a sweetie. I miss having a dog!

  31. Ashley on January 9, 2011 at 4:46 pm

    Aw have fun at college Viesa!! At least you’ll get to see her often, and you know shes in good hands!

  32. Martha Lilian on January 9, 2011 at 4:50 pm

    Many hugs to you. I can only imagine how hard that must be! We have two pups now and I can’t even imagine having to give one of them up. Of course, it is wonderful that you found her a loving, caring home with people you know. I think that would be the only way I could do it too.

  33. Jenna @ Eating Green, Staying Lean on January 9, 2011 at 4:51 pm

    Aw she’s such a sweet little dog! I’m sure you found the best possible home for her because you obviously love her lots. It’s hard, especially since people like us love our animals so much, but I bet she’ll love freshman year 🙂

  34. Molly @ MollyRunsFresh on January 9, 2011 at 4:51 pm

    Yay! I can’t wait for your post on food budgeting. I think all foodies have a bit of a problem throwing willy nilly things into the cart! I’m sure it’s probably hard to see Viesa go, but that’s great that her new family already loves her and is ready to welcome her home! Have a great day Missy 🙂

  35. Erin @ The Grass Skirt on January 9, 2011 at 4:52 pm

    I’m so sorry about Viesa, but I am sure that she will have lots of fun at college! You’re a good mommy. 🙂

  36. Jessica @ Dairy Free Betty on January 9, 2011 at 4:58 pm

    Have fun at college Viesa, that’s amazing that you get to visit her!

  37. nicole on January 9, 2011 at 5:00 pm

    Aww, Viesa always looks so sweet, but it’s good to know she will be in a better place. She really is a gorgeous dog, it’s great that you have visitation rights.

  38. Rachel @ Grateful Girl Goes Gluten Free on January 9, 2011 at 5:00 pm

    I’m sorry to hear about your pup! Letting things go is so hard.

    I can’t wait to see your baking!

  39. Tamara on January 9, 2011 at 5:01 pm

    I knew this day was coming but…it sucks so bad. 🙁

    Going to go love on my puppies. Sorry G’izzle. This day must be very difficult.

  40. Namaste Gurl on January 9, 2011 at 5:01 pm

    I’m sorry about your pup leaving but how fun that you still get to visit her!
    Can’t wait to hear about your foreshadowed baking project 🙂

  41. Jessica @ Jessica Balances on January 9, 2011 at 5:04 pm

    I’m so sorry about Viesa… I can only imagine what you’re going through. I hope you are feeling okay about everything, especially since you are definitely doing the right thing. xoxo

  42. Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter on January 9, 2011 at 5:09 pm

    Sounds like you are sending Vies off to ASU to become a Sun Devil 😉

    I hope you and Viesa do well with the transition!

  43. lindsay on January 9, 2011 at 5:13 pm

    oh I wish I lived closer. I would have adopted her. Sweet girl. Hope you are doing okay. I know she is being loved in a good home.

  44. Kim on January 9, 2011 at 5:15 pm

    So happy you found Viesa a good home and that you can visit! I know you are sad, but you are doing a good thing!

    Such pretty flowers from the pilot!

  45. The Pilot on January 9, 2011 at 5:15 pm

    I’m going to miss that hound so much, honey. I know she’ll never forget the love we gave her – it made her a better pup, so she’ll be so happy at college. I can’t wait to visit her with you when I get back. Thank you for everything you did taking care of her while I’ve been here. You’re a great pup mom.

  46. Kelly on January 9, 2011 at 5:15 pm

    I think it’s so loving and responsible of you to find a new home for Viesa. She’ll be so happy to be the only dog with all the attention. As much as you love her, be assured that you’re doing the right thing.

    P.S. I’m so glad you posted how much you spend on groceries. I always feel guilty that I spend too much on groceries for my husband and I. But my weekly bill is about 2X yours so that makes sense, since I’m buying for two people. I can be cheap so it’s good for me to be reminded that healthy food takes a little extra spending, but it’s really not any more than other healthy people spend.

  47. Liz @ Tip Top Shape on January 9, 2011 at 5:16 pm

    Whenever I go to Trader Joes, I can’t believe how much food I am able to get and not spend an arm and a leg. Big difference from when I go to Whole Foods!

  48. Lauren on January 9, 2011 at 5:16 pm

    I am sorry about you having to part with your beautiful Viesa. I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you. It is nice that she is going with a family you know and trust. This will end up being a huge stress reliever for you since you don’t have to worry about the fighting.

    On another note, I am looking forward to seeing what you are baking!

    – Lauren

  49. CathyK on January 9, 2011 at 5:17 pm

    aw, thinking of you on this day of transition, gina…so glad you will still get to see *your* Viesa from time to time. I’m not a pet owner, but imagine it must be quite a lifestyle adjustment for you.
    “off to college” is a great way to look at it!

  50. Little Bookworm on January 9, 2011 at 5:32 pm

    Sorry about Viesa having to go to a different home. 🙁 Glad that you will still be able to see her though!

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