Christmas Tree

Last night Gavin and I went to pick out a real, live Christmas tree- something we haven't had for quite a while and something that makes me very happy! I grew up having a real tree every year and I have many happy memories from when my family went to cut one from the Christmas tree farm every year. Anyway, we stopped at a nearby tree lot for our cute little tree. The one we picked is actually a "living tree" which means if we take care of it through the season, we could potentially plant it.. somewhere.

Boston Terrier Meet Up

Almost the first walk I took with Chewie in London, we met another couple with a Bostie names Jonah.  Lucky for me and the little Chew-dog, they let me know about the London Boston Terrier Meet Up group and yesterday was finally our first meeting.  I'm pretty sure Chewie enjoyed it as much as he enjoyed the BT playdates in MN  The group met at Regent's Park near the Honest Sausage Cafe.  It was my first time to Regent's and the weather couldn't have been better for December.  I think there was about 15 Bosties that attended- it's usually such a swirl of black, white, bulging eyeballs and pink tongues that it's hard to keep track. All the pups were very well behaved but Chewie made quite the first impression by continually going after a 13 week old adorable puppy...  I hope they invite us back!

BTW- Chewie is the one in the light green coat. ;)

Saturday Thanksgiving

I should have taken more pictures of the day, but alas, I guess it was more fun to partake than document ;) Nevertheless, I got shots of the important things: Minnesota cultivated wild rice, the turkey before it went in the oven and the fantastic company we enjoyed the meal with.  It was a great day with great friends, including old traditions such as watching American football to the new additions of watching rugby in the pub and a delicious apple crumble with warm custard and clotted cream ice cream!

my first solo turkey!

Happy Thanksgiving!

If anyone is wondering where you can find all things Thanksgiving here in London, just head to Whole Foods.  I should have spent the entire day there just to pretend like I was celebrating the holiday today.  Honestly, I think I only heard American accents throughout the store (even the children) and there were huge displays of pumpkin pies, turkey cooking essentials and green beans.  Given the fanfare and because it's just me and the Chew-dog tonight, I decided to purchase a piece of pumpkin pie for my dessert! Gavin is traveling for work yesterday, today and tomorrow but promises to be home for our "substitute American Thanksgiving in London dinner" on Saturday. We'll host two expats and two hangers-on...looking for a free meal.. ;) Of course, I'm kidding!  But the pressure is on to show them how Americans feast! We've got turkey, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, wild rice, stuffing, Brussels sprouts/cauliflower casserole, cranberry compote, gravy and rolls.  The guests are bringing apps, wine and dessert.  Is that enough??

I'll miss Thanksgiving with my dad's family today and the "what I'm thankful for" mainstay.  Here is my version this year:

• I'm thankful for Gavin and our little pup; 
• I'm thankful for this once in a lifetime opportunity to live abroad;
• I'm thankful for our supportive and caring relatives in Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Texas, Oregon, Illinois, Colorado, New Jersey, California, Virginia and Japan, and;
• I'm thankful for our wonderful friends, near and far.

Love to everyone! Gobble, gobble!

Painting the town red

Again, a long absence. Again, my apologies.  BUT, H and I were having the best time ever.  I can't even begin to express how much her visit meant to me.  It was so great to have have her around: to take in art together, to eat wonderful food with, to enjoy afternoon teas together-- honestly just to chat with! Which we know how to do well ;)  And despite the fact that because of this stupid cold that won't go away, I couldn't actually laugh (because I would cough), we laughed a ton.  There were many highlights of our week and I really believe we made the most of our time together.  There were hipster east-end visits, (one) late night out at da' club, quintessential British countryside and sheep, spa relaxation, jaw-dropping art, and amazing cupcakes.  

"Let me grab my oyster card.. NOT my passport"

Don't mind our boots and the hand and foot disease....

"Is this place for real?"

"Are you the one from Canada?  Oh, you were the two blonds..."

So, the room is half filled with OIL?

"Yes, the spa is right through this door..."

How long should we wait for the bus?

Some items may contain shot.

What is an escarpment?? And where is it??

And the inevitable: "Are you sisters?  You could actually be twins!"

Wonder Twins, Activate!

at Borough

before...

and after.  you can never eat too much cheese.

millions of ceramic sunflower seeds at Tate.

eating awesome cupcakes and tea

chipping campden. truly British.

slate roof tiles

a field of brassica.. of some sort.

"walking" champions

a thatched house!

a last wonderful dinner ;)

Miss you already!  Now, who's going to visit me next?? ;)