Orvis & I were left to our own devices this weekend while Michael was in London for a work trip. Despite missing him a great deal, we managed to have quite a fun little weekend. It started off with a cozy Friday night dinner at Petite Jacqueline with my friend, Betsy, followed by a fantastic hike in Robinson Woods the next morning with our pal, Julia. I used Saturday afternoon to get a jump on my holiday shopping, purchasing gifts for family members from three of my favorite stores in the Old Port – Folly 101, 2 Note Perfumery, and Blanche & Mimi. Later that afternoon I put our eucalyptus branches to good work, sprucing up various parts of the house, including the mantel of our newly wallpapered fireplace.

Although I considered not running Sunday’s Turkey Trot when I woke up and saw that it was five degrees with the wind chill, I’m so glad I didn’t listen to myself – it was easily one of the chillier runs I’ve ever experienced, but nothing compares to the high of finishing any type of race. Plus, I used the run as an excuse to indulge in my new favorite winter lunch – tomato cognac soup from Aurora Provisions with bits of toasted bread and globs of pimiento cheese from Scratch Baking Co. So good.

We’re off to pick up Michael from the airport soon – have a wonderful week, friends!