After the bear of a winter we've experienced, I have been looking forward to Spring more than ever! Unfortunately, Spring does not arrive the same time in Chicago as in NC. It's about 2 months late. :( This year Chicago set records for Winter snowfall and Spring rain. Rain and 40's is not my idea of Spring. While reading about my Southern friends enjoying the warm weather, wearing cute spring dresses, and basking in the sun, I was still sporting my puffer. Luckily I was able to take a much needed "tropical vacation" to NC last weekend for my 10 year college reunion and my brother's wedding reception! I had to ask the husband to lug my box-o-shoes from our storage unit so I wouldn't have to wear boots with my spring dresses!
It was so wonderful to see my Salem sisters. Just being at Salem brings back many great memories, and we definitely had fun reliving our college years. I can't believe it's been 10 years since we graduated...sniff, sniff. I am so blessed to have such wonderful life-long friendships with these fabulous women. I love you girls and can't wait for our next reunion! But, you better come see me in Chi-town before then! :)
My nieces and nephews live just outside of Winston-Salem, where I went to college, so I stopped in to say hello to these cutie pies. Every time I see them, it amazes me how much they've grown. I really cherish these moments, especially now since we've moved. Do you think they look like me?! ;)
I had quite the busy Sunday with lots of reunions and celebrations with friends and family.
My brother was in Charlotte on leave from where he is stationed in Italy. He eloped with his long-time friend, Jessica, and had a party in Charlotte. I was so glad the timing of everything worked out so perfectly that I could be there to celebrate and see my family. Congrats to my lil bro and Jessica!
I must have brought Spring back with me from NC, because when I got home, there were tulips all over the city, the trees had started blooming, and the weather is finally warming up. I just love tulips...they always remind me of Salem. Today is absolutely beautiful! Justin, Brizz and I took a 4 mile walk through Grant Park and along the lake front. It's still a little chilly by NC standards, but I'll take sunshine and 60's with a lake breeze any day! Oh, and btw...allergies in Chi-town aren't half as bad as in Charlotte! Definitely a plus of Chicago living!
The city has exploded with people coming out of hibernation. Everyone keeps telling me that summer in Chicago is like no other, and I can't wait to experience it first hand! The farmers' markets are opening, festivals starting....I loaded up my calendar this afternoon with all kinds of different upcoming city festivities. Ok, all you friends who say you want to come visit....now's the time!!
We're watching the end of the Wells Fargo Championship in Charlotte, and I'm a little nostalgic. I always looked forward to the golf tournament each Spring and loved to walk the course in the breathtaking views of Quail Hollow. We're making new traditions now in our exciting new city. I cherish our memories and friendships from NC, but the new experiences we're building in Chicago make life that much more rich and colorful!
