Fall is my favorite time of year in Western PA because it’s just so stinking beautiful. The only downside is that it comes so early. In Chicago, summer seems to persist through September. In Pittsburgh, not so much. Already, during this late August visit, there is an undeniable chill in the air. (It was going to be 48 at Seven Springs at night the day we visited).
Tonight, we soaked in the fall-like chill on the patio at Liz and Tony’s beautiful new home. I drove out to Oakmont with Arabella, a salad and a carrot cake— Jarmon took an Uber there after his flight from Chicago landed. We weren’t sure if he was going to make it back since we waited so long to book his flight. Given that the alternative was me flying alone with Arabella and Baxter, I was especially happy to see him.
Liz made a delicious pasta to go with flank steak and pesto shrimp. She also made one of her signature charcuterie boards and Julie brought buffalo chicken dip. Lots of champagne, rose and white wine was consumed. It was a great night surrounded by people I adore. They say you are lucky to make one good after your college years are over. Well I hit the jackpot because I found a whole crew.
I loved that Arabella got to meet the girls (and their guys!) and of course photographed it all.
Arabella’s photo with Julie’s daughter Hazel is my favorite– the next generation of our crew. They both look terrified in the photo, but it was good practice for Hazel who is getting a baby sister soon.
We admittedly kept Arabella out past her bedtime, but I’ve vowed not to be too strict. And honestly- it worked out great. Jacqui and Justin brought us an awesome new blanket and pillow made by Justin’s mom and Arabella slept happily on it for most of the evening.
My parents spent their evening at the Yellow Tie gala for the Great American Banana Split Festival in Latrobe. A few years ago, I happened to see a banana split dog Halloween costume at TJ Maxx the weekend of the festival and bought it for the sole purpose of sending my dad a photo of Baxter in it (when it comes to the perfect photo op, I spare no expense). It was very convenient that we were home this year and got to snap a photo of Baxter with my parents before the event. The costume has been worth every penny.
Earlier in the day I went to Walmart and was reminded why I love it so much. Not only did I get an amazing carrot cake and some salad mix for dinner, but I also scored an adorable velour track suit for Arabella. The cost? Less than $10. I may spend copious amounts of time at Target in Chicago, but Walmart will always be my true love.
Trina Orlando 