Fa la la la la...falling snow.
No. 69 When it's ten degrees and Pepper wears boots.
Good morning,
On Friday afternoon we got the first snowfall of the season and now everything is crunchy, slippery, and (mostly) white.
The snow was briefly pretty and it made all of the neighborhood Christmas lights look extra-festive and sparkly at night. However, the snow also brought an extra-cold weather pattern so here we are on Sunday morning - it’s ten degrees and Pepper will be forced to wear her boots on walks despite the sidewalks being clear. Yay!
I am no stranger to the cold. I grew up around here, loved to stay outside in the snow for far too long (during and after storms), and willingly went to college in Vermont where it was cold and/or snowy for 75% of the year. As long as you’re prepared, the cold isn’t so bad! Layer up! Wear the good socks, gloves, hat, fleece, all of it. I strongly believe one cannot fully appreciate a beautiful, warm (summer) day without knowing the extreme opposite which seems to be where we are right now. Sunny and frigid! It’s December 22 and the weather is perfect. :)
Speaking of late-December, it’s almost Christmas! And Chanukah! And New Year’s Eve! There’s so much about to happen! My shopping is…almost done. I promise. Our holiday cards finally shipped so they’ll be in the mail on Christmas Eve I assume - apologies in advance. Maybe I should just switch to a January card? I definitely need to begin wrapping and organizing as I’ve realized most of my efforts went toward gifts for my two nieces. :)
Beyond the gifts and family visits planned, it’s also the time of year when people go out - often. I had a handful of work-related outings recently and I’ve noticed each time that Seth and I have gone out for dinner, the places are packed. There are crowds all around and everyone wants to get into the festive spirit. Delightful, but I tend to prefer it a bit less crazy. Sorry! Please don’t hang on the back of my bar chair while you’re impatiently waiting to take my seat. ;)
Despite my own preferences (and usual sound judgement), we went out last night to a very crowded spot, waited over an hour for a second bar seat (Seth graciously let me sit at the one available stool), and then had a hearty meal which I have since dubbed, “too much potato.” I know. It’s a shocking statement that I wouldn’t normally utter, but there comes a moment in one’s life when you realize your plate is just too white.
When the server told me that one of the items I wanted was actually not available gluten free (oh well), my response shouldn’t have been to just order a second, super-creamy potato dish. But alas, I did just that. Honestly, it was extremely delicious and I have no regrets, but I am going to opt out of “double potato” side dishes for a moment. Or a month. Or two.
It is now Sunday morning and I am still full. Fine, the bartender also gave us a free dessert because we accommodated two guests who reserved the seats directly to my left. Wait. Reserving bar seats?! Is that a thing? Tell me more.
I have a strong feeling the couple who reserved bar seats were frequent customers because all of the staff seemed to know them and amidst their fairly appropriate dinner order (read: a modest amount for two people which did not include any potato products), they had multiple drinks arrive for each of them, at the same time. And the man kept boasting about his new car. Fun! I kept my distance as I continued my dinner of cream and butter. No shame.
The other couple near us, who kindly gave Seth one of their seats when they had finished, were also enjoying a holiday night out, but seemed to order and eat with purpose. They got drinks immediately, ordered right away, and then all of a sudden they were asking to take the bread home with their leftovers. Wowza. Did they even remember to chew?
When the pair made sure we knew that their seats would soon be ours, I quickly said, “No rush!” regardless of how I actually felt. At this point we’d waited well over an hour. And then the man told us that as much as they were enjoying their night, they were actually looking forward to going home to rest and relax. Ha. I guess dinner wasn't that relaxing for them. I wonder why! Happy Holidays. :)
All of our surroundings last night made me feel as though we were in a 1990s holiday movie. Overly-crowded restaurant, eccentric guests, and seasonal decor that was a touch…too much. However, it was just what I needed to be fully “in” on the holiday joy. Also, SNL had their holiday show and Martin Short was a superb host. As usual!
Now, I think it’s finally time to get wrapping and be excited for a handful of days off before the new year. I hope it will truly be relaxing. :)
While I had planned to make today’s letter the final one of the year, I’m not quite ready to say, “See you in 2025.” That feels…too real. So how about a few extra gift ideas - just in case - and a note of thanks.
Thank you so much for reading every week and for letting me know that you enjoy this funky little corner of the internet. I write about whatever’s on my mind and go from there. Will there ever be more structure? I’m not sure! But I’m so glad that I came back to Substack and am sharing bits of life with you each week. I hope you have a wonderful holiday and enjoy all of the moments that make this time of year sparkle and glow.
I’m removing the paywall for this week’s Sunday Six. Cheers!
The Sunday Six_12.22.2024
A few more gifts in case you’re shopping today!
Diptyque Electric Diffuser - I have a version of this for my car and it adds such a light, lovely scent!
Theory Wool Crop Trouser - On sale and would be a great gift! I love the color. Perfect for work and winter outings.
Voluspa Noble Fir Candle - This one is currently on top of my radiator and is making the entire house smell so good.
Drink More Water! iPhone Case - Considering ordering for myself. I love the fun phrases on the Sporty & Rich phone cases. The entire brand has some good stuff, too. ;)
Bottega Veneta Leather Card Case - for your fancy friend that loves something extra-chic to hold their ID.
Vince Shadow Plaid Funnel Neck Sweater - On sale! A classic print on a super-soft sweater to wear all season long. Styled with chic, leather shorts and now I want the whole outfit.
Gifts are great, but the best part of the season is taking a minute to unwind and be with your family and favorite folks. I hope this time of year is a delight for you however you choose to spend it. No judgement whatsoever if you also partake in a night of ‘too much potato.’ See you next week!
Cheers and joy,
Mollie