by Jen
on December 25, 2011
Merry Christmas! I hope you are enjoying Christmas morning. So far I have slept later than planned (which will result in no time for a morning run), guzzled coffee and eaten cake for breakfast. Now it’s time to tackle wrapping gifts. Yes, I’m am one of the world’s worst procrastinators. It’s all good. 😛
Before I get to it, I wanted to quickly share our Christmas Eve dinner. We spent the evening at my brother in law’s with his wife and two girls, Brandon’s parents and sister.
Champagne cocktails upon arrival.
With my sister in law, Rachael.
Beautiful dining room set up. Please take a moment to appreciate the mini table for the little ones.
Delicious wine.
My brother in law prepared an amazing dinner of Provencal Lamb Daube. Everything about this stew was incredible. I loved the blend of flavors and the use of all fresh ingredients.
He served it over Anson Mills Grits although you could also use polenta.
I put together a quick salad.
Dinner plated. I think everyone went back for seconds.
I blew off going to yoga yesterday afternoon in favor of baking. I made this Glazed Cranberry Lemon Cake. It was so good and the perfect festive dessert. (And definitely what I just ate for breakfast this morning!)
And finally, my sweet nieces leaving cookies out for Santa.
I hope you have a beautiful day with your friends and family. Be happy, be grateful, be loving.
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July 22, 2026
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July 19, 2026
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July 10, 2026
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I recently traveled to Big Bear Lake, California for the inaugural Big Bear Peaks + Pines three-day stage race hosted by TransRockies Running. This was my third TransRockies event in 12 months (see also Colorado + Moab) and I’m here to tell you that they can do no wrong when it comes to race organization [...]
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May 30, 2026
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May 3, 2026
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