It’s time for our first Ultimate Coffee Date for the new year! How exciting to be here again! I have so many things to tell you over coffee, so grab a cup of your favorite and let’s chat!

After reading here, head on over to visit Coco and Deborah, our awesome link-up hosts.

Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I FINALLY got to try this new coffee shop I’ve been eyeing: Maracuya by Llama. It’s the most adorable little house, with a beautiful porch and patio, and cozy seating inside. The coffee is absolutely fantastic, and I loved my iced pistachio dark mocha. Really, anything pistachio is my jam. They also serve the most delicious empanadas, pastries, desserts, and wine. Parking is an absolutely nightmare, but it was worth the hassle.

Over coffee, I would tell you…
That as you read this, we are wrapping up a truly fabulous birthday vacation for Mr PugRunner. January 1 is a tough day for a birthday, and we tried to do something special for his 50th. His brother and wife, and my parents also made the journey to celebrate with him. I’m so glad it all worked out.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I am heading to New Orleans to run the Mardi Gras 5K in early February! It was an incredibly thoughtful gift from Mr PugRunner, to aid in my quest for a race in every state. The last time I was in New Orleans was actually DURING Mardi Gras, back in 1998ish, and it was wild! I’m so excited to visit before the festivities really kick into high gear so I can enjoy some more of the architecture, sights, and cuisine! Any tips or recommendations? We’re creating a plan now!

Over coffee, I would tell you…
That the end of 2023 was kind of bizarre. So many people felt the same way. There was just this icky feeling that permeated the last half of the month, and I need to shake it off.
Over coffee, I would tell you…
That I have some new projects lined up! I got the coolest embroidery kit to do, but plot twist: I’ve never embroidered in my life! So that’s something to learn. I also think I will refinish some furniture and update our bathrooms.

What would you tell me over coffee?
Welcome to Fit Five Friday, our linkup!
We’ve got FIVE incredible co-hosts, and we are ready to link up every Friday to share YOUR weekly fitness favorites! Join My First 5K and More, Running With Attitude, Run Laugh Eat Pie, Runs with Pugs, and Zenaida every Friday for Fit Five Friday! Who’s ready for some fun?

Oh, that 5K in New Orleans will be so fun! That was a great gift!
I’m glad 2024 is off to a good start with the Mr’s birthday celebration.
I’ve done needlepoint and cross-stitch, but never embroidery like that! It’s always cool to see how each stitch adds up to a pretty pattern/picture!
It was very much a surprise and I am excited!
You have to see this design! I was rushing and didn’t grab a photo but it’s so cool!
I’ve been to Mardi Gras in Mobile, but never in New Orleans. I’d love to hit that up some year, and doing a 5K really sounds like a great way to soak up the atmosphere 😉
Oh, it’s crazy in New Orleans! We won’t be there for the main Mardi Gras celebration, which is just fine. My current anxiety could never!
Enjoy New Orleans! I have a few friends with 12/31 or 1/1 birthdays – definitely tough – except people are often up for a party – LOL. Glad you had a good celebration and that 2024 is off to a good start.
As an extrovert, he loves a party, but I just can’t keep up. And then the next day (the actual birthday) is always a waste. I think this year worked out just fine.
That is awesome that you are going to New Orleans! How long will you be there? That is a cute coffee place. I would love to have something like that close to me.
Just a Friday through Monday. But it will be fun all the same!
Ooh, New Orleans! We drive past the city every year on our way to Texas but have never been able to stop and explore. That should be amazing!
Ha, your husband’s birthday in on New Year’s Day? That is pretty tough. My daughter’s birthday is December 30th, which is such a blah day- plus we’re all tired out from Christmas and so her birthday gifts are pretty lame. I hope you guys had a fun celebration!
I noticed Starbucks has some new pistachio drinks- I’m sure they’re good although it’s not as cute as your coffeeshop.
It is tough to have a birthday on a holiday or close to it.
I remember loving the energy of New Orleans, and I am excited to be able to see it without the actual Mardi Gras activity. I’m making my list of things to do this week!
Starbucks does have a very good pistachio drink! No, it’s not the same, but it’s closer and more convenient!
Ooh that coffee shop sounds super adorable!
I’m so glad Mr PR had a special birthday trip arranged for his 50th! Ron’s birthday is Jan 12th and while not as “bad” as the 1st of Jan it’s often forgotten. I think people are maxed out on parties and gift giving and need the whole month of January to recover!
OMG New Orleans 5K will be FAB!! What a great gift!
My year end was also not that great. Then again the whole year has kind of been off. Onwards and upwards, right?
Good luck with your embroidery project and anything else you decide to tackle!
I’m glad you were able to get away to make your hubby’s birthday special!
New Orleans will be so much fun! That is one city I would really like to visit. What a great gift!