Aging is inevitable, and for many, it signals the beginning of a new chapter - one where you cross off bucket list items and live life to the fullest, on your own terms. However, for some men, aging is a horrible prospect, filled with chronic fatigue, irritability, and inability to perform in the bedroom. If you're concerned about life in middle age and beyond, we've got great news: there are easy, proven steps that you can take to help stop the negative effect of aging.
Global Life Rejuvenation was founded to give men a new lease on life - one that includes less body fat, fewer mood swings, and more energy as you age. If you're ready to look and feel younger, it's time to consider TRT (testosterone replacement therapy), and growth hormone peptides. These therapies for men are effective, safe, and customized to fit your goals, so you can keep loving life as you get older.
TRT, and growth hormone peptide therapies bridge the gap between your old life and the more vibrant, happier version of you. With a simple click or call, you can be well on your way to a brighter future. After all, you deserve to be the one in charge of your wellness and health. Now, you have the tools to do so - backed by science and applied by our team of TRT and HRT experts with more than 13 years of experience.
For men, getting older comes with its perks, like living life on their own terms and not having to "sweat the small stuff" day in and day out. At the same time, there are aspects of aging that men dread, like hormonal changes. Yes, you read that right â men, not just women, go through hormonal changes as they age. For men, the biggest change involves a drop in testosterone.
Lower levels of testosterone can wreak havoc on a male's mind and body and when left untreated, can result in symptoms like:
Those symptoms are concerning, but with testosterone replacement therapy and anti-aging medicine, many males improve their quality of life with age. The good news is that TRT and anti-aging meds aren't only reserved for "old guys." In fact, there's no magic age at which men should start thinking about hormone replacement therapy. Everyone's body is different, so if you're experiencing the above conditions in your mid-30s, TRT could be a viable solution when you consult with a doctor.
Testosterone is a crucial hormone for men and plays an important role throughout the male lifespan. Most of a male's testosterone is produced through the testicles. Also called the male sex hormone, testosterone starts playing its part during puberty.
When a male goes through puberty, testosterone helps males develop:
As boys turn to men and men grow older, testosterone levels deplete naturally. Sometimes, events like injuries and chronic health conditions like diabetes can lower testosterone levels. Unfortunately, when a man loses too much T, it results in hypogonadism. When this happens, the testosterone must be replaced, or the male will suffer from symptoms like muscle loss, low libido, and even depression.
TRT is exactly what it sounds like: a treatment option for men that replaces testosterone so that your body regulates hormones properly and restores balance to your life. Also called androgen replacement therapy, TRT alleviates the symptoms that men experience with low T.
Originally lab-synthesized in 1935, testosterone has grown in popularity since it was produced. Today, TRT and other testosterone treatments are among the most popular prescriptions in the U.S.
Without getting too deep into the science, TRT works by giving your body the essential testosterone it needs to function correctly. As the primary androgen for both males and females, testosterone impacts many of the body's natural processes â especially those needed for overall health. For example, men with low T are more prone to serious problems like cardiovascular disease and even type-2 diabetes.
When your body quits making enough testosterone, it causes your health to suffer until a solution is presented. That's where TRT and anti-aging medicine for men can help. TRT helps balance your hormones and replenish your depleted testosterone. With time, your body will begin to heal, and many symptoms like low libido and irritability begin to diminish.
For men, aging is the biggest contributor to lower testosterone levels, though there are other causes like obesity, drug abuse, testicular injuries, and certain prescribed medications. Sometimes, long-term health conditions like AIDS, cirrhosis of the liver, and kidney disease can lower testosterone levels.
When a man's testosterone levels drop significantly, it alters his body's ratio of estrogen and testosterone. Lower testosterone levels cause more abdominal fat, which in turn results in increased aromatase, which converts even more testosterone into estrogen.
If you're concerned that you might have low T, you're not alone. Millions of men in the U.S. feel the same way. The best way to find out if your testosterone is low is to get your levels tested.
For sustainable testosterone replacement therapy benefits, you must consult with hormone doctors and experts like those you can find at Global Life Rejuvenation. That way, you can find the root cause of your hormone problems, and our team can craft a personalized HRT plan tailored to your needs.
Are you used to blasting through a productive day and accomplishing all your daily goals? Do you find yourself losing muscle mass and the craving to be intimate with your partner? Does your partner complain about how irritable you have become? If you're not usually a curmudgeon, your body could be giving you a sign. It could be time to speak with a doctor about TRT and anti-aging medicine for men in Far Hills, NJ.
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, you might be battling against low testosterone:
One of the most common reasons that men choose TRT is because they have lost that "spark" with their partner. It's not easy for a man to hear that they're not performing like they used to. Intimacy is a powerful part of any relationship. When a once-healthy sex life dwindles, it can cause serious relationship issues.
The good news is that low libido doesn't have to be a permanent problem. TRT and anti-aging medicines help revert hormone levels back into their normal range. When this happens, many men have a more enjoyable life full of intimacy and sex drive.
Weak erections â it's an uncomfortable subject for many men in the U.S. to talk about. It's even worse to experience first-hand. You're in the midst of an intimate moment, and you can't do your part. Despite being perfectly normal, many men put blame and shame upon themselves when they can't achieve an erection. And while the inability to perform sexually can be caused by poor diet, obesity, and chronic health conditions, low testosterone is often a contributing factor.
Fortunately, weak erections are a treatable condition. The best way to regain your confidence and ability in bed is to speak with your doctor. Once any underlying conditions are discovered, options like TRT may be the best course of treatment.
Hair Loss
Do you find it harder and harder to work out and lift weights in the gym? Are you having problems lifting heavy items that you once had no problem lifting?
Recent studies show that when men are inactive, they lose .5% of muscle strength every year, from ages 25 to 60. After 60, muscle loss doubles every decade. While some muscle loss is common as men age, a significant portion can be tied to low testosterone levels. When a man's T levels drop, so does his muscle mass.
Testosterone is a much-needed component used in gaining and retaining muscle mass. That's why many doctors prescribe TRT Far Hills, NJ, for men having problems with strength. One recent study found that men who increased their testosterone levels using TRT gained as much as 2.5 pounds of muscle mass.
Whether your gym performance is lacking, or you can't lift heavy items like you used to, don't blame it all on age. You could be suffering from hypogonadism.
If you're like millions of other men in their late 20s and 30s, dealing with hair loss is a reality you don't want to face. Closely related to testosterone decline and hormone imbalances, hair loss is distressing for many men. This common symptom is often related to a derivative of testosterone called DHT. Excess amounts of DHT cause hair follicles to halt their production, causing follicles to die.
Because hair located at the front and crown is more sensitive to DHT, it grows slower than other follicles and eventually stops growing permanently. Thankfully, TRT and anti-aging treatments for men in Far Hills, NJ, is now available to address hair loss for good.
While it's true that you can't change your genes, you can change the effects of low testosterone on your body. Whether you're suffering from thinning hair or hair loss across your entire head, TRT and other hormone therapies can stop hair loss and even reverse the process.
Also called "man boobs," gynecomastia is essentially the enlargement of male breast tissue. This increase in fatty tissue is often caused by hormonal imbalances and an increase in estrogen. For men, estrogen levels are elevated during andropause. Also called male menopause, andropause usually happens because of a lack of testosterone.
If you're a man between the ages of 40 and 55, and you're embarrassed by having large breasts, don't lose hope. TRT is a safe, effective way to eliminate the underlying cause of gynecomastia without invasive surgery. With a custom HRT and fitness program, you can bring your testosterone and estrogen levels back to normal before you know it.
Decreased energy was once considered a normal part of aging. Today, many doctors know better. Advances in technology and our understanding of testosterone show that low T and lack of energy often go hand-in-hand.
If you're struggling to enjoy activities like playing with your kids or hiking in a park due to lack of energy, it could be a sign of low T. Of course, getting tired is perfectly normal for any man. But if you're suffering from continual fatigue, a lack of enjoyment, or a decrease in energy, it might be time to speak with a doctor.
Whether you're having a tough time getting through your day or can't finish activities you used to love, TRT could help.
A study from 2011 showed that men who lose a week's worth of sleep can experience lowered testosterone levels â as much as 15%, according to experts. Additional research into the topic found almost 15% of workers only get five hours of sleep (or less) per night. These findings suggest that sleep loss negatively impacts T levels and wellbeing.
The bottom line is that men who have trouble sleeping often suffer from lower testosterone levels as a result. If you find yourself exhausted at the end of the day but toss and turn all night long, you might have low T.
TRT and anti-aging medicines can restore your T levels back to normal, which can help you sleep better with proper diet and exercise.
You're feeling down about everything, and there's no solid explanation for why you're in such a crummy mood. Your daily life is great and full of success, but you can't help but feel unexcited and unmotivated. If you're experiencing symptoms like these, you may be depressed â and it may stem from low testosterone.
A research study from Munich found that men with depression also commonly had low testosterone levels. This same study also found that depressed men had cortisol levels that were 67% higher than other men. Because higher cortisol levels lead to lower levels of testosterone, the chances of severe depression increase.
Depression is a very real disorder and should always be diagnosed and treated by your doctor. One treatment option gaining in popularity is TRT for depression. Studies show that when TRT is used to restore hormone levels, men enjoy a lighter, more improved mood. That's great news for men who are depressed and have not had success with other treatments like anti-depression medicines, which alter the brain's chemistry.
Ask anyone over the age of 50 how their memory is, and they'll tell you it wasn't what it used to be. Memory loss and lack of concentration occur naturally as we age â these aren't always signs of dementia or Alzheimer's.
However, what many men consider a symptom of age may be caused by low testosterone. A 2006 study found that males with low T levels performed poorly on cognitive skill tests. These results suggest that low testosterone may play a part in reducing cognitive ability. If you're having trouble staying on task or remembering what your schedule is for the day, it might not be due to your age. It might be because your testosterone levels are too low. If you're having trouble concentrating or remembering daily tasks, it could be time to talk to your doctor.
Why? The aforementioned study found that participating men experienced improved cognitive skills when using TRT.
Even though today's society is more inclusive of large people, few adults enjoy gaining weight as they age. Despite their best efforts, many men just can't shed the extra pounds around their midsections, increasing their risk of heart disease and cancer.
Often, male weight gain is caused by hormone imbalances that slow the metabolism and cause weight to pile on. This phase of life is called andropause and happens when there is a lack of testosterone in the body. Couple that with high cortisol levels, and you've got a recipe for flabby guts and double chins.
Fortunately, TRT treatments and physician-led weight loss programs can correct hormone imbalances and lead to healthy weight loss for men.
The benefits of hormone replacement therapy for men are numerous. TRT not only grants relief from low-T symptoms but can help give protection against age-related diseases. Additionally, doctors now recognize male testosterone as an important role in alleviating depression.
Some of the most exciting benefits of TRT can include:
Because men do not go through a specific period of hormonal changes like women do (called menopause), many doctors refer to "male menopause" as androgen decline. This is just another term for low testosterone, but like female menopause, the symptoms can be serious and affect your quality of life.
The best way to fight back against male menopause is with male HRT treatment from Global Life Rejuvenation. We provide the following HRT treatments for men:
Our treatment options are personalized for your body and are available as creams, gels, injectables, and implantable pellets. To find out if testosterone replacement therapy is safe for you, contact Global Life Rejuvenation today to schedule your comprehensive testing and anti-aging treatment consultation.
Growth hormone peptides are an innovative therapy that boosts the natural human growth hormone production in a person's body. These exciting treatment options help slow down the aging process and give you a chance at restoring your youth.
Sermorelin is a synthetic hormone peptide, like GHRH, which triggers the release of growth hormones. When used under the care of a qualified physician, Sermorelin can help you lose weight, increase your energy levels, and help you feel much younger.
Human growth hormone (HGH) therapy has been used for years to treat hormone deficiencies. Unlike HGH, which directly replaces declining human growth hormone levels, Sermorelin addresses the underlying cause of decreased HGH, stimulating the pituitary gland naturally. This approach keeps the mechanisms of growth hormone production active.
Benefits of Sermorelin include:
Ipamorelin helps to release growth hormones in a person's body by mimicking a peptide called ghrelin. Ghrelin is one of three hormones which work together to regulate the growth hormone levels released by the pituitary gland. Because Ipamorelin stimulates the body to produce growth hormone, your body won't stop its natural growth hormone production, which occurs with synthetic HGH.
Ipamorelin causes growth hormone secretion that resembles natural release patterns rather than being constantly elevated from HGH. Because ipamorelin stimulates the natural production of growth hormone, our patients can use this treatment long-term with fewer health risks.
One of the biggest benefits of Ipamorelin is that it is suitable for both men and women. It provides significant short and long-term benefits in age management therapies, boosting patients' overall health, wellbeing, and outlook on life. When growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland using Ipamorelin, clients report amazing benefits.
Some of those benefits include:
Whether you are considering our TRT services, HRT for women, or our growth hormone peptide services, we are here to help. The first step to turning back the hand of time starts by contacting Global Life Rejuvenation.
Our friendly, knowledgeable TRT and HRT experts can help answer your questions and walk you through our procedures. From there, we'll figure out which treatments are right for you. Before you know it, you'll be well on your way to looking and feeling better than you have in years!
It looks like it's the end of an era. The Friendly's in Morrisville has closed its doors for good. I'm sure many locals are sad to see it go.The restaurant has been on West Trenton Avenue for 40 years, but when one of my co-workers stopped by for a treat on his way home the other day, it was closed.As of Friday (July 15th) the Facebook page for this location was still being updated but, it was just general pictures of Friendly's ice cream.The big Friendly's sign has already been taken off of the building and a big red ba...
It looks like it's the end of an era. The Friendly's in Morrisville has closed its doors for good. I'm sure many locals are sad to see it go.
The restaurant has been on West Trenton Avenue for 40 years, but when one of my co-workers stopped by for a treat on his way home the other day, it was closed.
As of Friday (July 15th) the Facebook page for this location was still being updated but, it was just general pictures of Friendly's ice cream.
The big Friendly's sign has already been taken off of the building and a big red banner is hanging on the front window that reads in part, "After 40 years of serving great food and ice cream, we are closing this location July 5th."
The sign also directs you to the next closest Friendly's location which is on East Lincoln Highway in Langhorne.
There are other locations at Neshaminy Mall, on Street Road in Bensalem, Route 611 in Horsham and one in Mercer County...on Washington Boulevard in Robbinsville (Foxmoor Shopping Center)....Cherry Hill and Marlton too.
Not sure why this location closed, whether it was pandemic related or not, but, I hope this isn't the beginning of the end of this chain.
Friendly's is a classic. It's a great family restaurant where you don't have to worry about your kids being too loud or sitting like soldiers.
We used to take our kids there when they were younger. It's a casual atmosphere with kid-friendly food and fun desserts that keep you going back.
The Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Sundae is my favorite and sooo delicious. I'm going to have to go get one now. Lol.
Looking to play some mini golf this summer? Don't miss these courses, that PST listeners gave the thumbs up.
On Route 31, near Pennington Quality Market, the mini golf course is beautiful...definitely good for your Instagram. The course isn't too easy or too hard, it's perfect. My family loves playing there. There is some shade for hot summer days, too.
On Lincoln Highway in Fairless Hills, not far from Oxford Valley Mall and Sesame Place, you don't realize how awesome this course is, until you go off the road onto the lush course. The sound of the waterfalls is so relaxing. After golfing, grab some pizza, hot dogs, ice cream or milkshakes. You'll love it there.
Doesn't this look cool? On the boardwalk in Point Pleasant. This is one of the two courses in town. Castaway Cove (shown) and Lighthouse Point are ready to challenge you.
On Route 31 in Ringoes, not far from Hopewell, there are two scenic "World Class Miniature Golf" course. No windmills or clown mouths here, you'll play over the beautifully landscaped grounds. After you play your 18 holes, eat at the cutest red barn right on the property.
Good, old fashioned fun is just what you're crave down the shore. Windmills, lighthouses, and all your favorite mini golf things are at this popular golf spot in Ship Bottom. There have been celebrity sightings as well. Cool. PS...it's cash only, just be prepared.
If you're looking for a good cup of coffee, and would rather skip the chains and support a local business, try these places, as recommended by PST listeners.
Located in The Lawrence Shopping Center, this bakery has earned quite a following since it opened just a few years ago...and there coffee is one of the reasons people keep going back.
Located at 750 Cass Street in Trenton, they're open 7 days a week, and offer delivery and a coffee club. They specialize in well-balanced coffee. The owners say a good cup of coffee has balance just like a good life has balance. Stop in to find your balance.
But first, Brunch. It's so trendy right now. A new PST Poll asked where you like to brunch, locally, and wow, there are a ton of mouthwatering choices. Grab your besties and head to one of these local spots for cocktails and the most delicious food on the weekends. Save your appetite. PS. These are just a few of the great spots in the area...we know there are more....get out there and enjoy them.
It's always a good time for pancakes, especially PJ's famous pancakes. With locations in downtown Princeton, Kingston, West Windsor, Ewing, and Robbinsville, you'll love PJ's extensive menu. The Robbinsville and Ewing locations also have a full bar, so make sure you check out the Brunch cocktails.
In Ewing, a Breakfast Burger and some Hangover fries may just hit the spot on a Sunday morning. Lol. Al's also has all of your brunch favorites. Try the Mermaid Mermosa, a Cranberry Orange Mimosa Bellini, or one of their other Brunch cocktails.
What a cute place. LCH proudly serves locally roasted (Buck County) coffee that everyone loves. Make sure to try the French Toast encrusted with Fruity Pebbles...wow...fresh wraps, salads and so much more. Bonus...LCH also has leash holders for four-legged customers. Awww.
The borough of Far Hills recently celebrated its centennial anniversary. Though the municipality comprises only about five miles of Somerset County, each fall it draws thousands of visitors from across the tri-state area. These guests are eager to experience a day at the Far Hills Races, a sporting event that is colloquially known as “The Hunt.”While the Autumn steeplechase is certainly an annual ...
The borough of Far Hills recently celebrated its centennial anniversary. Though the municipality comprises only about five miles of Somerset County, each fall it draws thousands of visitors from across the tri-state area. These guests are eager to experience a day at the Far Hills Races, a sporting event that is colloquially known as “The Hunt.”
While the Autumn steeplechase is certainly an annual highlight, Far Hills and the surrounding area have much to offer in the summer months as well. If you’re seeking a quick escape to the country, look no further. Read on for your guide to spending an afternoon exploring historic Far Hills.
The bucolic vibe makes Far Hills feel far away. On the contrary, the borough is incredibly accessible by rail and by road.
There are three train stations (Bernardsville, Far Hills, and Peapack) in the immediate vicinity, with the Far Hills stop conveniently located next to the village center. As soon as you step off of the train, you’ll be stepping into history: the Far Hills Train Station has a place on the national and state Registers of Historic Places. Directly across the street from the Spanish Revival station, designed by architect L.R. Simpson in 1914, are the famous racing grounds.
Direct trains run from Hoboken to Far Hills on weekdays, with a one-way trip totaling roughly an hour and a half. Be sure to check weekend schedules to determine whether a transfer or bus connection is a requirement. If departing from Montclair, there is a transfer at Newark Broad Street, and the trip can take anywhere from an hour forty-five to just over two hours depending on the length of your layover.
By car, the borough is roughly fifty minutes from Hoboken and forty-five minutes from Montclair. It’s a quick and easy drive, with a bulk of the trip spent on I-78. Parking is no problem with large lots at shopping and dining locales.
The village center hosts many home and design shops sure to pique interest, so if you’re in the process of redecorating a visit to Far Hills is a must. These shops are all located at the seemingly interconnected shopping plazas between 55 US – 202 and De Mun Place, so you can take a leisurely stroll to see each stop. Remember to check store hours before making the trip, as many of the shops close their doors on Sundays.
This interior design firm under Jeffrey Butler Haines provides “design consultation, space planning, interior architecture, and custom furniture design” among other services. The firm has antiques on-site and the team is capable of restoring antiques. Haines himself has been nationally recognized for his work, and clients note that his classic though “not predictable” style has certainly enhanced and elevated their homes, from Nantucket to Vero Beach. You can submit a design request online or plan to walk through the showroom which is open Tuesday through Saturday.
Located just behind Butler’s at Ludlow Square, this shop specializes in outdoor decor and floral design. The owners invite you to come in to “find the perfect gift for a loved one” or take advantage of personalized gardening or outdoor design consultations. If you’re hoping to spruce up your apartment, Classic Home + Garden does carry a line of indoor goods as well. The store is open seven days a week, though Sunday visits require an appointment.
If you’re looking to up the ante with your upcoming party invitations or are in the market for beautiful stationery, Engraved Images is the place to go. The boutique was started by Heidi Pfluger Gammon in 1986 and has since become the destination for custom paper for both individuals and corporate clients in Somerset County. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday.
Next door to Engraved Images, you’ll find a location of Yves Delorme Paris, the international luxury linens vendor. Yves Delorme brands its products as exceptional linens “uniting poetry, audacity, excellence, and Savoir-Faire.” This shop is open Tuesday through Saturday.
In addition to the shops listed above, Branch Home officially made its debut recently, and the homewares store seems to be hitting the ground running. The owners describe the space as “a little cottage filled with beautiful things for your life,” and enjoy highlighting locally sourced products. Branch Home’s website has not yet been finalized, but you can follow along on Instagram for updates.
Despite the listed address, Natirar is a local park made up of hundreds of acres that touches multiple municipalities, including Far Hills. Visitors are welcome to explore the many walking trails and gardens open to the public, all while learning more about the property’s history and mission of “promoting stewardship of land and resources.” Dogs are welcome at Natirar— you’ll find many four-legged visitors running around the main grounds as soon as you drive up. Fishing, too, is a popular activity and is permissible at the Raritan river so long as local guidelines are followed.
Natirar’s upper acres are home to additional delights including a club, farm, and restaurant (which even offers cooking classes). This portion of the property is currently in the process of being developed, so be sure to check in as their offerings expand. Plans include the introduction of private residences and an upscale hotel, to be part of the Pendry group.
If you need a quick bite to eat following your trip, The Butler’s Pantry is a great option. The space is located within the train station and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner most days. The restaurant is family-owned, and the proprietors take pride in serving “fresh and delicious home-cooked meals that satisfy any craving.”
This vegan juice bar arrived on the scene in September of 2020. The cafe has already become quite popular: the operators have had to extend their hours to meet demand, Bati is now open seven days a week. The menu features a selection of daily breakfast and lunch specials in addition to signature cold-pressed juices and smoothies. And, if you’re looking to detox, the juice bar offers personalized cleanse programs to suit your taste.
Ninety Acres is the public restaurant that sits atop the vast property of Natirar Park, making this an excellent place to dine after a day of exploring the area. The upscale farm-to-table venue does have a dress code, so be sure to bring a change of clothes if you plan to spend the day at the park. The seasonal menu includes diverse individual entrees as well as the option for a classic four-course family-style, prix fixe meal. Ninety Acres is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, and reservations are suggested as seating is limited, though available both indoors and outside.
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Dan Ruhland is not one to follow the rules.Sure, the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s 2021 trend report says, “White, off-whites, grays and beiges will remain the top color schemes.” But Ruhland has other ideas. The Long Valley–based designer eschews trends, focusing instead on “trying something different.”We found two recent, one-of-a-kind projects that epitomize Ruhland’s unique take on color.Blue Beauty in Far HillsFar Hills homeowner Erica Bre...
Dan Ruhland is not one to follow the rules.
Sure, the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s 2021 trend report says, “White, off-whites, grays and beiges will remain the top color schemes.” But Ruhland has other ideas. The Long Valley–based designer eschews trends, focusing instead on “trying something different.”
We found two recent, one-of-a-kind projects that epitomize Ruhland’s unique take on color.
Far Hills homeowner Erica Brennan has a special bond with Dan Ruhland. “I trust him, and he gets me,” she says. So, when Ruhland took on the family’s kitchen renovation, Brennan stepped back and let him run the show. The family of six lived in the basement of their spacious French country-style home for six months—equal parts quarantining and avoiding the chaos of the renovation.
“We busted out the kitchen a week before Covid hit,” says Brennan.
The unveiling was worth the isolation; Ruhland has transformed the cavernous, builder-grade kitchen into a showcase.
“Erica, like everybody, started off wanting a white kitchen,” says Ruhland, “but I suggested we go in a different direction.” His starting point was the bold herringbone-pattern tile backsplash. “Originally, it was going to be the pattern for the entire kitchen, but I switched to using it as an accent behind the cooktop,” he says.
Ruhland then specified a blue-gray subway tile for the remaining areas, installed, like wainscot, from the floor to mid-wall. “Dan talked us into the colorful tile,” says Brennan. Ultimately, she says, “the tile backsplash makes the whole space warmer. It’s stunning.”
Keeping with the blue-gray theme, Ruhland chose a porcelain flooring that resembles wood planks. “It’s absolutely the best thing we did,” says Brennan. The countertop material is concrete: gray on the island and stone around the perimeter. Looking up at the fifth wall, Ruhland painted the lofty ceiling a bold blue to complement the island cabinets and designed beams for architectural interest. “It’s brand-new wood, character grade,” he says. “We added a clear satin stain to emphasize the knots.”
A second kitchen sink features brass fixtures to coordinate with the cabinet hardware. Photo by Laura Moss
To accommodate the family of six in one open space, Ruhland created a kitchen lounge off to one side. “It’s a comfortable hang-out space where the family can be together when the cook is busy,” he says. Naturally, he focused on the fifth wall in this room too, designing a stunning, white-oak, trayed ceiling.
“Dan has wonderful vision,” says Brennan. “Every part of this kitchen is a showpiece.”
Open shelving reinforces the contemporary farmhouse vibe in this New Vernon home. Photo by Laura Moss
What started off as a renovation of an outdated house took on a life of its own at this New Vernon residence, home to a family of three (who asked to remain anonymous). “Ultimately, we had to tear it down and start fresh,” says Ruhland. The result, he says, is a true modern farmhouse, with bold bursts of orange throughout.
The kitchen is the prime example. “I proposed a green backsplash,” says Ruhland. The homeowner didn’t agree. “She suggested orange,” says Ruhland. “Nobody ever says orange, so I went with it.”
Ruhland selected glossy orange tile in random horizontal shapes, installing them on the wall and behind the open shelving. “The look takes me back to the stately Newport mansions,” he says, “but with a contemporary flair.”
Cabinet finishes are a mix of bright-white and white-and-gray stained white oak. “The flat panels are a very clean look,” he says.
Ruhland jumped at the chance to design an orange kitchen. Photo by Laura Moss
Continuing with the eclectic mix of materials, Ruhland selected a matte-black and copper range, topped with a custom-designed hood. Striking copper-and-mesh pendants echo the look. Countertops are marble; flooring is porcelain. “The flooring is very dynamic, with lots of movement,” says Ruhland. The ceiling he left plain. “There’s so much activity here,” he says. “The ceiling doesn’t need to speak loudly.”
The kitchen’s special features include a large walk-in pantry and a roll-out baking station. “Their daughter loves to bake, so this area really gets used,” says Ruhland. Another unique feature is the counter inset behind the sink. It’s a space for spatula and knife storage, he explains, as well as for potted herbs. “It has a drain connected to the sink drain, so it’s easy to keep them watered,” he says.
The countertop directly behind the sink has knife storage and a self-draining space for fresh herbs. Photo by Laura Moss
Now, the homeowners wake up every day and ponder “how happy they are to live in this house,” says Ruhland.
Dan Ruhland Designs, Long Valley, 347-683-9837.
It usually takes an ordinary person two to three months to climb Mount Everest, but Dr. Qaisra Saeed, an interventional cardiologist with RWJBarnabas Health, is far from ordinary.Knowing she couldn't be away from her patients that long, Saeed set out to accomplish the feat in just three weeks.She did just that.Climbing mountains is nothing new to Saeed, a resident of Short Hills, who works a Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, and Newark Beth Israel Me...
It usually takes an ordinary person two to three months to climb Mount Everest, but Dr. Qaisra Saeed, an interventional cardiologist with RWJBarnabas Health, is far from ordinary.
Knowing she couldn't be away from her patients that long, Saeed set out to accomplish the feat in just three weeks.
She did just that.
Climbing mountains is nothing new to Saeed, a resident of Short Hills, who works a Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, and Newark Beth Israel Medical Center within the RWJBarnabas Health system.
"I did a climb last year with a company that did climbs at Mount Everest, and based on how I did last year, they thought that I would be able to climb Mount Everest in three weeks, in a shorter period of time. Because of that, I decided to start training and attempt it," Saeed said.
“I’ve been climbing mountains for several years," Saeed said. "In mountain climbing, Everest was always in the back of my mind. It didn’t always feel to be attainable, but it was always in the back of my mind."
And, thus, the training ? and research ? began.
Saeed researched training practices, and followed the training from a woman in California, who climbed Mount Everest from the Tibet side of the Himalayas in two weeks.
"I went through her training, her diet, all her training up until the climb, and I just really put it in my mind that I was going to do this," the doctor said.
To get her body used to functioning at lower oxygen levels, Saeed slept in a hypoxic tent for two months before her trip.
"Most of the companies recommend that people sleep in these tents to acclimate and make it easier to climb faster. And I also did spend time in the sauna, which is supposed to induce heat shock proteins, which also make you more resistant to hypoxia, or low oxygen levels," Saeed said.
But sleeping in a hypoxic tent was just base camp at the foot of the mountain in Saeed's training.
"I have a 50-pound backpack I would run with," Saeed said. "I usually run on the treadmill because I started my training in January. I’d get up at like 5:30 to do my running and 5:30 in the morning in January in Jersey is kind of cold. So, I’d run, I’d go to work, I’d come back. I did Tae Kwon Do. I’ve been doing that for more than 10 years and I think that helped me a lot with a lot of my core training. And, also with a lot of the mental training. I think in things like these types of climbs, and these type of trips, probably it’s 60 percent mental. The physical is very important, but there’s a lot of mental aspects to it, that make it possible to do this."
Saeed started training in January year, and began her accelerated climb of Everest on April 29, with Pioneer Adventures.
Saeed wasn't alone on her climb. She did the climb with G. Lakpa, a Sherpa she had hired and with whom she climbed an 8,000-meter peak the previous year.
"I felt comfortable with him, so I asked him to do the climb with me. So, it was us two. I had some rescue insurance. During those climbs, you have to be very self-sufficient," the doctor said. "At some point, you can get help, but at a certain point, no one may be able to help you. You have your Sherpa who can potentially help you, but really, in these types of situations, you have to be very self-sufficient."
There were some close calls on Saeed's climb.
"Some of them were climbing down the mountain and we were almost out. We were like half an hour from the end of the ice falls, and I was on the last ladder, because you have to do these ladder crossings, and my crampon got stuck in the ladder, and I was halfway across the crevasse, and I panicked immediately."
"When you climb on the ladders, you have to be like one person at a time, you can’t go with anybody, because they’re not very stable and this one was like four ladders strapped together with rope. And I was halfway across. We were coming out. I was almost at the end and my crampon gets stuck. I just panicked. I said, “Oh, my God.” So, I made it all the way up and I’m coming out, I’m going to fall in this crevasse right at the end."
Saeed yelled to her guide Lakpa she was stuck.
"He’s on the other side and he just looks at me. He’s like, ‘Ah, just maybe wiggle your foot, go forward, go back.' You can’t just pull your foot out because you're on this ladder that’s unstable, I would just topple over. I kind of had to step forward, wiggle my foot a little bit, I stepped backwards, wiggled my foot a little bit. I did that for a while. And, finally, my foot got free, and I was able to walk the rest of the way off the ladder."
"I was like, 'Oh, my God, this is just my luck.’ I do the whole climb and then right at the end, I have a problem. But that was very scary because I thought, it figures I made this whole climb and now I’m going to have a problem," Saeed said.
Announcing you're going to climb Mount Everest is not something you tell your family and friends every day.
"I didn’t tell my Dad until I came down, because he gets too nervous and he might not want me to do it," Saeed said. "I did tell my Mom and my family, and everybody was, I mean, they were excited for me. I think they were a little nervous. Everybody asked me to be careful. Most people were very supportive because they knew this was something that I wanted to do and I had been training since January so, I was very boring from January to April. I didn’t go out with anybody; I didn’t do anything fun. Anytime I had free time, I was like, 'OK, I have to run, I have to train.' All my free time was really spent to train. So, everybody was really supportive of me.”
But Saeed is not stopping with Mount Everest. Her next goal is climbing K2 in Pakistan, the second highest mountain on Earth.
"I haven’t told my Dad that one either yet. Actually, my Dad is from Pakistan, he was from a village called Khall in Dir in Pakistan. He currently lives in Peshawar, and K2 is the second highest peak, so it’s not the tallest, but it’s actually harder than Mount Everest. I like to challenge myself and I feel like this would be a great challenge."
Most mountaineers consider K2 to be a more difficult climb than Everest.
"It’s supposed to be harder," Saeed said. "It’s a lot more technical and there’s a lot more climbing. I had to re-put up my pull-up bar, I put up my pull-up bar in the doorway in between my kitchen and laundry room. So, I’ve been working on my pull-ups again."
Her accomplishment on the mountain has carried over into Saeed's professional life.
"I truly feel that it’s made me more confident. I really feel like I can handle anything. Anything that gets thrown at me, I feel like, ‘Oh, I climbed Mount Everest, this is nothing. I can totally do this.’ Things are much less daunting, and I feel like I’m in a better position, even to advise my patients on exercise regimen, even inspiring them to follow their own goals in their life. I feel like it’s really benefitted me and enabled me to inspire people, my colleagues, my patients, and advise people in general. Especially exercise and training," Saeed said.
Brad Wadlow is a staff writer for MyCentralJersey.com.
New Jersey residents pay the highest property taxes in the nation, and the statewide average climbs a little higher each year.The Garden State’s average property tax bill was $9,284 in 2021, a year-over-year increase of $172.But there were some homeowners in the state who saw their bills actually decrease last year.Property taxes are assessed at the local level, and the tax rates and average bills differ widely from one town to the next. And New Jersey is overflowing with towns.The average property tax bill ...
New Jersey residents pay the highest property taxes in the nation, and the statewide average climbs a little higher each year.
The Garden State’s average property tax bill was $9,284 in 2021, a year-over-year increase of $172.
But there were some homeowners in the state who saw their bills actually decrease last year.
Property taxes are assessed at the local level, and the tax rates and average bills differ widely from one town to the next. And New Jersey is overflowing with towns.
The average property tax bill rose in nearly 90% of the 564 municipalities spread across the state. But residents in 65 New Jersey towns saw a decrease in the average bill, with some falling by as much as eight times the average statewide increase.
Here are the 30 municipalities with the biggest one-year decreases:
30. Woodbury Heights, Gloucester County
2021: $8,099
2020: $8,167
Change: -$68
29. Harrison, Hudson County
2021: $10,126
2020: $10,202
Change: -$76
28. Wrightstown, Burlington County
2021: $4,469
2020: $4,553
Change: -$84
27. Hope, Warren County
2021: $7,676
2020: $7,763
Change: -$87
26. Maywood, Bergen County
2021: $10,062
2020: $10,149
Change: -$87
25. West Cape May, Cape May County
2021:$6,035
2020: $6,128
Change: -$93
24. Franklin, Hunterdon County
2021: $11,265
2020: $11,362
Change: -$97
23. Penns Grove, Salem County
2021: $4,264
2020: $4,361
Change: -$97
22. Liberty, Warren County
2021: $7,195
2020: $7,296
Change: -$101
21. Atlantic City, Atlantic County
2021: $4,792
2020: $4,895
Change: -$103
20. Eagleswood, Ocean County
2021: $6,677
2020: $6,788
Change: -$111
19. Greenwich, Cumberland County
2021: $6,425
2020: $6,543
Change: -$118
18. Brooklawn, Camden County
2021: $4,287
2020: $4,409
Change: -$122
17. Egg Harbor City, Atlantic County
2021: $6,241
2020: $6,368
Change: -$127
16. Totowa, Passaic County
2021: $9,508
2020: $9,667
Change: -$159
15. Washington, Warren County
2021: $7,228
2020: $7,393
Change: -$165
14. River Vale, Bergen County
2021: $15,353
2020: $15,519
Change: -$166
13. Far Hills, Somerset County
2021: $14,493
2020: $14,663
Change: -$170
12. Sparta, Sussex County
2021: $12,416
2020: $12,614
Change: -$198
11. New Brunswick, Middlesex County
2021: $6,490
2020: $6,689
Change: -$199
10. Andover, Sussex County
2021: $6,918
2020: $7,148
Change: -$230
9. Frelinghuysen, Warren County
2021: $7,839
2020: $8,112
Change: -$273
8. Beach Haven, Ocean County
2021: $9,055
2020: $9,340
Change: -$285
7. Englewood Cliffs, Bergen County
2021: $14,823
2020: $15,164
Change: -$341
6. Netcong, Morris County
2021: $8,283
2020: $8,682
Change: -$399
5. Sea Girt, Monmouth County
2021: $13,069
2020: $13,469
Change: -$400
4. Old Tappan, Bergen County
2021: $16,680
2020: $17,159
Change: -$479
3. Upper Saddle River, Bergen County
2021: $18,154
2020: $18,886
Change: -$732
2. Millstone, Somerset County
2021: $7,516
2020: $8,541
Change: -$1,025
1. Rockleigh, Bergen County
2021: $12,769
2020: $14,146
Change: -$1,377
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