New Years and a New Adventure

I have to admit... I'm glad the holidays are over in a way. I'm excited to return to normalcy and a good 'ol routine. Boring, I know. Don't get me wrong- I looooove Christmas and it's full of all good things, but I'm worn slap out. 

The year 2011 was full of many ups and downs and the last few days were definitely on the upside.

We spent New Years with our dear friends Brad and Emily Corley at Bay Town in Sandestin and it was so so good to be together again.  

You know those friends you have that no matter how long it's been since you've seen them last, you always pick up where you left off? They are that to us. And unfortunately, my little Bellie girl did not make the trip... They didn't tell me she wasn't coming until we actually saw them because Em said she still wanted me to come! Ha! {That's how much I love my little cutie pa tootie!}

We enjoyed mild temps, delicious food, and this adorable little town. 

When we got back from Destin, the inevitable was drawing near... the next day we would be heading to Atlanta to shop and enjoy some mother-sister time before sending Julie off to Africa. Her last night at home, mom made her favorite dessert... creme brulee. {She used Barefoot Contessa's recipe and it was better than any I've ever had.}

We stayed in downtown Buckhead in the heart of all our favorite shopping. 

The store in the phone pic below was where we spent the majority our time. If you like good quality and most importantly- "cute" workout/lounge/run around town clothes, you will love this store like we do.

We ate at California Pizza Kitchen for Julie's last meal before her flight. We both enjoyed the "salad pizza" with salmon since we assumed that salad and fish would probably be scarce in the great plains of Africa.

We then took her and her 200 lbs. of luggage to the airport.

We had our little "kiss and cry" and watched her walk away. She is one courageous girl let me tell you.

She got through security and the last thing we saw was her little yellow scarf waving in the air to say goodbye one last time. Who knew you could be sad, excited, scared, and at peace all at once?

If you would like to see and read about her three month African adventure you can follow her cute {and rather hilarious} blog. {http://kapsowarkenya.blogspot.com/} Apparently she's too cool to "follow" mine but I know she would be delighted if you followed her! God is truly at work in her life as you will see, and nothing brings her proud big sister the fam more comfort than that.  We would GREATLY appreciate your prayers for her!

Hope you all had a very happy new year!!