Today has been warm, muggy, and dreary; otherwise, a Monday in dire need of something marvelous.

As Mondays go, today wasn’t terrible. Sure, my stomach was in knots in anticipation of the afternoon’s menacing thunderstorms, especially since I had to meet with an auditor across the facility during their peak. Why can’t 1940s-era Air Force bases have secret tunnels a la Hogwarts?

Needless to say, the severe thunderstorms never came, and I survived. It didn’t rain a drop during my walk to and from the meeting (all TWO hours of it) and I think we satisfied the auditor’s questions. Survival = Marvelous.

The cold front also means: WINTER WEATHER!!! I’ve said it before, but I am so excited to break out the coat, boots, scarves, and sweaters. It hasn’t really felt like December in the South, so this chilly weather is Christmas in itself.

You know what else is marvelous?

Creamy goat cheese grits topped with buttery, grilled shrimp.

And Bananas Foster French Toast.

Sunday we had brunch at Kitchen on George, a new-to-us restaurant located in the beautiful Oakleigh Garden District. This remodeled, historic home has housed a couple different restaurants over the years; today, students at Culinard, the culinary school at Virginia College, run the latest incarnation.

I’m putting off a review until we try their dinner, but I will say that I was fully satisfied with our meal. While the large plate of French toast was too big for one person to finish off, it was perfect for Mark and me. Add the small plate of shrimp and grits and a mimosa with freshly squeezed OJ and you have a winning brunch.

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We also did a little shopping Sunday afternoon. Apart from one more gift each for my father and husband, I’m finished with Christmas shopping. Hooray!

Dinner tonight was marvelous and something we’ve never tried: shrimp-stuffed mirlitons (also known as chayote squash). These small green squash are pretty tasty. They remind me most of zucchini or yellow summer squash, except that they don’t cook up as quickly.

Mark used this recipe, cutting it roughly in half  (only 2 squash) and using a bit more Creole seasoning. It might not be the most photogenic, but it was delicious. We each ate a whole squash (they’re small) and called it a meal.

Here’s to hoping the upcoming week goes smoothly. I can’t wait for our holiday luncheon at work on Friday. This year, I’ll receive my 5 year award; man, it’s crazy how time flies! Have a great week, everybody.

What’s marvelous in your Monday?

What’s your favorite obscure vegetable?