Holiday Hustle

This is a Milliren family quilt...Pat always has the room looking like a B&B. I loved how festive this quilt looked/felt.

Fresh greens on our bedside tables...

It is no secret that I crave quiet nights by a glowing Christmas tree...cookies baking in the oven...candles burning.  Lots of moments of holding onto my Connor-Crush.  All the cozy, peaceful aspects of the season. But, then there is real life and the holiday to-dos. I did bake some ginger molasses cookies last week during a storm and found time to write my Christmas cards too... but I need more nights like that!

 
This past weekend Connor and I took time for a quick holiday visit to Port Angeles to see Aunt Pat and Uncle Alan.  We had a lovely time. Our visit to the recently removed upper dam of the Elwha River (part of a restoration project) was such a treat. 

The overlook from the dam still remains.

But, looking down, you can see where they removed a 200+ foot deep dam.

And, looking back, you can see the old dam from the bed of the once Lake Mills.

After that, we stopped at Madison Falls - just a short walk and a bend in the trail reveals this amazing waterfall!

Pat and Alan striking a pose.

I haven't been writing about food...but that doesn't mean we aren't eating well!  Here are a few meals that I found to be delicious.

Dutch Baby (a pancake that you cook in the oven!)

We sliced it and served it with lattes and nectarines/blueberries.

Pork Carnitas...guac, corn, rice, refried black beans... queso fresco, salsa, homebrew. YUM!

Braised short ribs...jasmine rice, arugula... (A WCT masterpiece!)

Lots of things to do before our venture to Marion this coming weekend. We can't wait to spend some time with family.  I better get back to work...before my 30 lbs of fat cats climb on me again...

Does this make me look like a crazy cat lady? 

Hoping that your holiday hustle is bringing you joy and fulfillment!