aubergine and artichokes

My lips are stained a lovely shade of purple (aubergine, really) and my mascara's smudged in a way that only happens when I laugh so hard that I cry.

Both are occupational hazards of spending quality time over wine (and sharing some stories, of course) with a woman more precious than rubies. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, it's my very own bel amie, Allison.

Can't wait 'til we do stats homework over wine and artichoke dip again ...