Happy New Year

Julia and Benjamin returned from New Hampshire, and we opened some presents— including salmon jerky, smoked salmon, reindeer sausage, elk sticks, moose meat, and salt! Yum! 

In DC, we rang in the new year with Mom, Tony & Lisa, Maureen, Chuck & Terry, and Bill & Larissa. We had a delicious meal at the Capital Grille (thank you, Sarrges!). 

Lisa and Tony went to Deep Creek to ski and pick up our half cow! 

We had the pleasure of meeting Benji, Benjamin's pilot roommate, when he was stationed in Enterprise, AL. Benji will now be at Andrews Air Force Base—a great guy, so fun to get to know him and hear their stories.  

Special Friendships

Julia went to San Francisco to visit Sarah, her dear friend and roomie from undergrad. She had a fun-filled, activity-packed time. Benjamin is still doing well.

In DC, Meme came over for a last meal with us and her bestie, Booberry. She's off on her Artic Circle adventure tomorrow!

Hoya in the Hood

Benjamin's sister is attending Georgetown University--in person this year--and we're so happy for the chance to get to know her better. She is as sweet and genuine as her brother. :)

Benjamin brought moose steaks and smoked salmon sticks--oh my goodness, so yummy! This boy is so thoughtful. 

It was so nice to have Julia home again. She is our sunshine. 

Alaska Part 2

What an amazing adventure! Julia saw and camped near many cool glaciers, and hiked up Exit Glacier. She enjoyed blueberries and the magnificent views. But most importantly, she was able to see Benjamin's world, where he spends two weeks at a time (sometimes more) flying as a bush pilot. She met his incredibly nice co-workers, toured the pilothouse, and mingled with the locals in Unalakleet, AK. 

Check out the smoked salmon strips (she promised to bring me a few--can't wait!!!!).

Last Days of DC

Julia's time here in DC went FAST. We had Meme over for one last meal with Julia. Benjamin came for a brief 24 hours before helping Julia drive back west. He brought delicious salmon straight from the shores of Alaska to DC. It is so good. Of course, we had to have Wagshal's steak while he was here. Pictured below is my salmon with onions, and then Julia made her own salmon and salad back in St. Paul. Just a few more days before she is headed to Alaska for her last big summer adventure. Cute pictures of mom and Julia and Booberry just for fun. :)

Marching toward Spring

Julia has been busy running her class, while Benjamin has been in Alaska. Over Zoom, Jessie and Julia cooked a salmon dinner together. What a great idea! The result looks yummy. Steven bought her a cool ceiling light; check out the video. I went and got my hair done--back to blonde! Today is International Women's Day. At work, we have events all month long--including 3 nutrition presentations. It has been a super busy month already. 

Giving Thanks in Paris

Thanksgiving in Paris with family and friends was delicious and memorable. The best part was reuniting the tribe and spending time with Jules. The best meal was Thanksgiving dinner by far (Josephine Chez Dumonet)--foie gras, pork pate, smoked salmon, and turkey! Others enjoyed mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, pumpkin pie, and apple tart. The worst part was Steven getting sick. We missed him and know he would have enjoyed the various activities, especially Normandy. It was super hard saying goodbye to Julia--probably because I was by myself and no one told me not to cry. LOL, I cried. Can't wait to see her for Christmas!