Tales from Social Distancing...

What a difference some sunshine can make, especially right now in these more stressful and isolating times. Even though the temperatures were still a bit chilly last weekend in Northeast Ohio, Mr. H and I were able to get outside and it instantly improved my mood.

We headed to the Brookside Reservation to take in the Cherry Blossoms, which bloom around this time each year for only a brief time. We took the pup and had a nice, short stroll through the park.

That left me wanting to see more signs of spring, so we took a drive over to Lake View Cemetery (my first time!) and battled the crowds at Daffodil Hill. This is only a tiny portion of the gorgeous rolling hill of sunny blooms.

The next day, we headed out with the pup again for a 2 mile hike in Richfield.

She got to run through some creek beds, traipse over wooden bridges, and scout out some ramps. Everyone was happy.

We also had some fun with food over the last week, including more of Mr. H's home cooking.

But on Saturday evening, we ordered the Dinner for 2 carry-out from The Black Pig. The meal was fancier than usual, so I secretly set the table with all the fine crystal, candles, and place settings it deserved while Mr. H picked up our meal. 

The filet, crab cakes, roasted potatoes, broccoli, and shrimp cocktail (not pictured) set the stage for a fabulous evening at home that still felt special and "date night" worthy.

I am extra grateful that they started offering dessert carry-out two weeks ago, because it's something that we don't make at home and felt like such a treat. We're both still dreaming of the Peanut Butter Mousse and Flourless Chocolate Cake.

In addition to supporting The Black Pig once a week, we're also rotating in other favorites around town. This past week, it was Thai from Banana Blossom.

They have the best Crab Rangoon I've ever had, because the shape allows for a better filling to wrapper ratio. It's a must-order item when we eat there.

I also like their Pad Thai, and it hit the spot on a chilly, windy day last week. The only dish I don't care for that we've tried is the Massaman Curry, as I've had much better around Northeast Ohio.

During this past week, I also felt motivated to start dabbling with my New Year's Resolution to learn a new hobby in 2020. I was gifted several items over the holidays to help with this goal, including a deck of tarot cards from Mr. H. So I busted them out and did my first reading!

How are you staying busy lately? Anything fun you've cooked up in the kitchen that you'd like to share? Any great take out you're enjoying?