Last Chance for Cozy

We've turned the corner, so to speak. Winter in Northern Virginia is basically over, and there are signs of spring everywhere. Looking back on the last few months, I feel like my least favorite season was just a blip in the year; a little bit of cold, a little bit of snow, and a little bit of ice. But absolutely nothing compared to the winters I'm used to back in Western New York. Frances and I kept up with our regular walks, I continued to jog outdoors, and my heating bill never reached the amount I'm used to paying. If this is winter in Virginia, I'll take it!

That being said, I know I'll miss those cozy, winter days when there's nothing on the agenda except a little bit of lounging, reading, movie watching, cooking and eating. Knowing those days are soon to be over, I decided to really take the 'cozy' up a notch on Sunday. With an armful of groceries and a little dog, I headed over to my friend Mason's for the better part of the day. Making the most of it, I opted to cook something completely new to my repertoire: beef short ribs. Not the simplest recipe, but definitely worth the effort. A lot of prep work was involved, then a 3 hour break in the action, during which the short ribs braised in the oven and I watched a movie I'd been wanting to see.
When it all came together in the end, it was nothing short of perfection. A fireside table set for two, candlelight and wine, Frances laying at our feet. Mason and I agreed it was one of the most delicious meals we've shared together, which is saying a lot! Not only did the flavors blend together splendidly, but we knew this would probably be the last of this kind of night in a long time. So we hunkered down, made the most of it, and were as cozy as could be. And now, I say, bring on the warm weather!