Monday miscellany: it’s good to be home, but…

I’ve noticed that returning from a long trip often triggers a reassessment of my at-home routines and priorities. It’s been said that travel makes us see with fresh eyes, and that’s how I’m feeling now.

At-home outfits: jeans and sweaters

I’m still a bit weary from a vacation that extended beyond what we’d planned (by over a week). And I’m having a hard time jumping into some new projects on my “to do after this trip” list. I’m simultaneously feeling both the urge to simplify and declutter, and the desire to dial up my everyday style.

Before we left on our trip, I’d fallen into a bit of a style rut, getting dressed on autopilot. While I still dress for comfort and ease at home, since we’ve been back I’ve been craving color again. It’s energizing. And I’m enjoying the process of putting outfits together, even if just for myself.

It’s still “sweater weather” here, especially in the mornings and evenings. So my at-home outfits have been jeans-and-sweater-centric this week. I’m leaning into jewelry and accessories to feel more put-together.

Above: pink sweater worn previously HERE. It’s almost sold out; here’s one with a similar shape and color.

I’ve had these jeans for several seasons, just can’t seem to quit them. 😆 I purchased the sneakers last year in Milan. They’re incredibly comfortable and were definitely a splurge, but cost less than if I’d bought them here. (I’d originally planned to buy the Gucci bee sneakers while in Italy, but when I tried them on they felt like cardboard boxes on my feet.)

Here are a few more budget-friendly sneaker styles with fun details:

The sweater is one of my favorite styles from Me & Em. Here’s similar cropped sweater style that’s a bit less spendy, and one in a longer style.

We’re glad to be home but…

We’re also still processing some very sad news we received while we were away. About a week into our trip, we had a tearful phone call from our friends who were taking care of Gigi. She’d apparently escaped from their backyard where she was playing with their dogs, and had vanished. She’s stayed at their house several times before, is comfortable there and loves their dogs, and had never shown an inclination to try to escape. They said she’d only been in the yard a few minutes before she went missing, and must have squeezed herself under a gate.

Our friends did everything possible while we were away: posted notices and canvassed the neighborhood, checked local shelters, posted to online lost pet boards. There’s been no sign of her. The shelter staff told my friend that in that area, people tend to keep small dogs they find rather than turning them in. So at this point, I’m just hoping that she’s being cared for and loved as much as we love her. She’s microchipped, but unless someone turns her in to a shelter or takes her to a vet who checks for a chip, we may never know.

We’re very sad and really miss her. It was hard knowing we’d be coming home to an empty house. But I haven’t given up hope yet. I’m still checking shelter listings and online “found pets” in our area. If there’s any news, I’ll let you know.

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62 Comments

  1. here’s hoping you have good news to share about Gigi soon. what a distressing situation for all of you — I’m sure your friends feel terrible.

  2. I am so very, very sorry to hear the news about Gigi, and certainly hope she will return to you.

  3. I wish you all the luck in the world that your furry baby returns to you. I can only imagine what you are going through.

  4. Do another round of actual posters in the neighborhoods. Put your heartfelt description on them with a picture. Offer a reward. Put them where walkers and people waiting for school buses will see them. And put them in vets offices, schools (children are very observant), YMCAs and gyms, stores/shopping centers (especially places where people are going in spring, such as pool supply stores, Lowes, hardware stores, and the like); all the pet stores, pet grooming and daycare and boarding places. Also, most churches/synagogues have group halls with bulletin boards as well as weekly bulletins with ad space (very inexpensive way to reach a lot of people both in paper form and online). Definitely keep doing all the online posts, but keep doing the old-fashioned paper postings, too.
    And of course, ask for some spiritual help: Catholics pray to St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals. We also pray to St Anthony to find anything lost:
    ” St Anthony, St Anthony, look around, look around, Gigi is lost and has to be found. “
    That particular prayer has almost a Buddhist mantra invocation feel to it, which might also give you strength to hold on to the conviction that she will be found.

    1. You are such a valuable source of information and ideas, Marie. Isn’t it wonderful to have such an inspirational group cheering on Gigi’s return?!

      1. Thanks. Years ago, We had a beloved cat bolt out one morning and disappear. We looked everywhere. I took personal days and searched and searched. I posted everywhere. A neighbor (God bless him) was the director of fire rescue and on his day off, brought a boat home and searched our canal and all those nearby (best case: cat clinging under a dock; worst case, floating, drowned cat). No cat.
        I had to return to work. On the third day, I pulled in the garage, got out, started down the driveway to check the mailbox, and heard a tiny cry. Then she dragged herself into view, out from under a bush that we’d looked under a thousand times. She had a horrible head wound–vet suspected she’d been hit by a motorcycle, as a car would’ve killed her, but that vet saved her life, and our cat went on to live a long life. So never give up hope.
        I also had a brother whose golden lab disappeared, years ago, before microchips. About 8 months later, his son, a teen, (one of 5 children) was walking in a local parade several towns away from their home, and he saw their beloved dog! He called him, and the dog came running to him, jumping with glee, and smothering him with big wet kisses. The dog was with a couple who lived even further away and said they’d found the dog as a stray, had posted, but only in their small town (!) and, getting no reply, kept him. The couple had a dog, understood the situation, and graciously reunited the dog with his first family. There were 5 happy kids plus parents and dog at that reunion.
        So, widen the search, never give up.

  5. I’m so very sorry to learn GiGi is missing. Hopefully she’ll be found soon and none the less for wear.

  6. I’m so sorry to hear about Gigi. I hope she is safe and eventually finds her way back to your home via her chip. On your comments about reassessing when you get home from a trip, I completely agree. We have been living in a furnished apartment for several months and going back home helped me realize how much I want to scale back on the decorating and extra stuff. Even my husband, who never likes to get rid of anything, wants to declutter his garage and work space. You really get to look at your home (or closet) with fresh eyes.

  7. I was going to comment 1) that all your elevated outfits are terrific and that they give me inspiration for my own day to day, and 2) that my wallet is secretly happy that the Gucci Bee sneakers feel like cardboard. But upon reaching the end of your post, all I hope for is that your beloved Gigi comes home.

    1. Same, I liked the sweater but was going to express astonishment that anyone would spend $700 on sneakers. But oh, Gigi! Especially alarming to me since we’re leaving our dog with friends very soon for a longish trip. Fingers crossed she turns up soon!

  8. I’m so sorry about Gigi. Just yesterday we got an automated phone call describing a cat that has been missing in our area. I’ve never received such a phone call before. I wish I could remember the name of the service, but I already deleted the voicemail. Maybe your vet knows of a service you could have send out a similar blast. There are also lost pet groups on Facebook and Nextdoor.

    1. I think the service is (or used to be) findtoto.com. You purchased a radius around the last sighting and they auto dial all the numbers in that area. The larger the radius the cost goes up.

  9. I saw your sad posting about Gigi on IG last night and am sorry to learn she didn’t magically return home in the night. Like you, I hope someone found and kept her because they adore her, and are taking good care of her. Not fair to you, but at least decent for her. Most of all, I hope you find her soon. It was so clear from your posts about her and photos posing with her that you loved her very much. I’m so sorry this happened.

  10. What an upsetting return for you, after having an intestinal ordeal announcing itself in London.
    You were able to enjoy the area around Hampton Court while you recovered and got a later flight home.
    Think positive thoughts for a safe return of your little Gigi… we love our furry members of the family, don’t we? I believe that the universe will answer your pleas.. with the help of posters, on line appeals and old fashioned sleuthing. Fingers crossed, Susan .

    I had an inspirational visit with Manina at Red Leopard on April 25.
    Silly me forgot to bring my wee colour book while off down George Street in Edinburgh this morning. But! I had them in my mind , and did my best to prop up the Scottish economy at ‘White Stuff’ and ‘ Joules’! Manina would be proud!
    Sadly , many TO LET signs in windows. Even Thomas Pink… PINK shirts …has closed down permanently. Due to Covid? Do not know, but I have two striped & somewhat oversized shirts that are such beautiful fabric and tailoring. Really, do not need another.
    Stayed at The Kimpton on Charlotte Square in New Town Edinburgh, on the edge of the action here over a Bank Holiday weekend. Lots of Hen Parties…the UK younger ones do them so well.

    Home to Vancouver Island on Wednesday, but a wonderful three weeks away, and maybe my fellow has had the time to complete the ‘ heavy ‘ gardening projects asked for before I land at our little local airport.

  11. You’re the queen of jeans, I think, and I’m on the lookout for a new pair, so going to follow your advice and order the Ex-Boyfriend style. They look great on you!

    I am so so sorry about your pup. I’m sure your dog sitting friend is heartbroken, too! Our guy took off every so often but happily always came home, on his own power or thanks to a kind neighbor. Fingers crossed that your girl is returned to you.

  12. PS to my previous comment:
    Although it pains me to even think about this, many lost/found pets are sold online, so you’ll need to go to Craigs List and other pets for sale sites. And be ready to buy your dog back.
    I hope and pray Gigi is found.

  13. So very sorry your Gigi is missing. That’s so distressing, and I’m just sorry you’re dealing with it.

  14. Oh no! I’m so sorry Gigi has gone missing. I hope she finds her way home SOON and you are reunited ASAP!!.

  15. Years ago, an incredible cat showed up at my sister’s house. She posted signs but no one claimed him, and since he never seemed to have a home, I took him to mine (in another city). I loved that cat so much! He was my cat soulmate, and we shared about 10 years together before he passed away of old age. After he died, I was remembering him with my sister and said, I can’t believe no one ever claimed him, esp after you posted fliers. She said, oh, I never did. I meant to, but didn’t. OMG! I kidnapped someone’s cat! I consoled myself that I gave him a far better life by loving him so much. Hopefully, if Gigi does not come home, someone else has done the same.

    1. And now to the rest… I love the sneakers from Italy. As another lower cost alternative, I recommend Onitsuka Tigers, which I’ve been wearing for 40 years now. Love!

  16. Poor Gigi. I hope that she finds a guardian angel who returns her to you. This happened to a family pet in the pre-microchip days. A dog lover with three of his own returned our wandering boy. I hope Gigi finds her way back to you soon.

  17. So sorry to learn of your missing pup, Susan. As a fellow dog lover, I can imagine your distress. A house isn’t the same without our beloved pets. Joan

  18. Hi Susan, such bad news! I loved the Gigi story! I can’t even imagine the grief of your dog sitting friends, feeling responsible no doubt. So I’ll keep my fingers crossed for her safe return too.
    Bon courage!

  19. So sorry to read about your dog. In addition to all the suggestions here, contact the microchip company. They can flag the chip number as lost in case someone takes her to a vet or shelter. You can also make sure they have your correct contact info listed. Good luck!

  20. I’m so deeply sorry about Gigi but keep the faith. I would certainly be beside myself if my boy Jordan was gone. I’m sure you are pulling out all the stops and checking all shelters, animal control, Next Door, etc. Fingers crossed.

    Meanwhile, back at the ranch…I have Gucci Bee sneakers and at first they were not comfy which one might expect for the price. However, once I wore them several hours they magically did what Italian leather does…conformed to my foot and now they are so incredibly comfy. Worth the break in for sure. I have 2 website comments for you: the video is fun but goes much too fast and second, there seem to be a lot more ads than usual and they are pretty distracting because I spend time clicking them away. Just a note.

  21. I am so sorry Gigi is lost…hopefully she will be returned soon…a friend of mine had his dog returned after 3 years. I hope Gigi comes back sooner.

  22. Susan, as a huge dog lover I can somewhat imagine the pain you are going through right now with your little Gigi gone missing. Let’s hope that if she is found someone will be responsible enough to turn her in to the animal shelter. “Grrrrrr” regarding what I read about people who find little dogs and tend to keep them! I am so sorry.

  23. How very sad! I join the rest of your readers in hoping that Gigi is home with you again soon!

  24. The anguish you and your pet sitting friends must be experiencing. So sorry to hear this. Will start saying the little prayer that Marie quoted above to St. Anthony for your dear Gigi to be returned.

  25. I am so sorry your dog is missing and hope she will turn up. Hard to think about fashion. Take care.

  26. I’m so very sad to hear about Gigi’s disappearance. I am currently helping my neighbory try to find her dog who went missing a couple of weeks ago. I cannnot stress enough how important it is to put up posters EVERYWHERE!!! Give a copy to every vet in the area, take copies to local animal shelters, schools, put Gigi’s info and picture on Pawboost and other sites as well as the Nextdoor app. I would def offer a reward. People are 50/50 on that but if it got my pet back, it would be well worth it. I know it can encourage dog-napping for profit but I’d do anything to get my beloved pets back. A local missing dog was just reunited with its family and not sure if it was the reward or not, but who cares? I live in the DTLA area and if you want someone to help you put up posters, I’m your girl. I will gladly meet up with you and help expand the search for Gigi. Posters, posters, posters!!!

  27. Like your other followers, I’m so sorry to hear of Gigi’s disappearance. Prayers to St Anthony for her safe return. Glad you’re over your illness and back from what otherwise sounded like a wonderful trip (although no doubt somewhat marred by the knowledge that your darling pup was gone).

  28. Such sad news ,hope she’s found soon .don’t loose hope .my littlest Sofia was turned in to a vet a week after she escaped .

  29. Have been praying for you and Gigi, surely she is safe.

    You never know, it might be productive to continue to canvas the neighborhood, contact all vets in the area and give them your info, photo, and the microchip info in the event someone takes her in. People still walk dogs so walking your friends’ neighborhood occasionally and asking questions might produce some information.

    I know people this has happened to and it’s heartbreaking–if someone has her, then at least they want her.
    My recent rescue was shot at and still has some remaining birdshot. These creatures come into our lives and grace us with their company, their antics and their love.

    We never truly own dogs–only their hearts. No doubt, Gigi gave you hers as you did yours.

  30. Oh so very sorry Susan to hear about Gigi.
    This is awful.
    My dog’s nickname was Gigi and a small blonde stray mixed dog. I got her from animal rescue and she was a runner
    She escaped so many times. I’d have to chase her with the car and offer her a ride to get her back. I got so worried, she was never off her leash unless indoors.
    A trainer helped me get her to come to me on command. It helped.and I had her for 18 years. I am sure she was and is, missing you. Keep the faith. There are many good people who will take her to a vet and they always check for chips and wearing a collar and tag.
    Bless your friends. I’m sure they hurt too.
    Again praying for her return.

  31. So very sorry about Gigi! Let’s hope someone lovely found her and just hasn’t gotten around yet to checking to see if she’s microchipped.

  32. I am so sorry about Gigi. I wonder if anyone had thought of posting information at the local houses of worship or grocery stores or libraries. You might want to consider posting a picture of you and Gigi around the neighborhood with a few words. Maybe someone will see the pictures and contact you.

    I am hoping for the best…

    1. It occurred to me this morning that you could mention that Gigi does have a microchip.
      If there are local parks or dog parks or walking trails, you could post there too.
      If she has any health conditions, you add that information too and let people know that she was a rescue – if I remember correctly.

      1. One last suggestion…you might want to consider notifying the rescue group. I know that when we got our cat from a rescue group. they told me to contact them if she got lost. (The rescue group told me that they have a network and additional resources that could be helpful in locating our cat if needed.)

        I am hoping for the best…

        1. Thanks, Maggie. There was no rescue group…we adopted Gigi from a city shelter which I’ve been checking regularly. I’ve been dropping off flyers with veterinary offices/hospitals in the area, but as most are not allowing customers to enter (still, due to Covid) only the staff will see them at this point.

  33. Ohh my heartaches reading about your beloved Gigi. I hope she finds her way back to you soon.