Christmas in Chicago

2 posts in one day!

We recently came back from Chicago. Joel's cousin Matt got married. We had the BEST time as we always do when we visit Joel's family. We arrived Thursday morning to the coldest day of the year. My skin was seriously burning after 10 minutes of being outside, but I was completely comfortable. Joel however has officially gone Southern.

We took it easy mostly, doing some last minute shopping and hanging out with Joel's dad. We got to see our GORGEOUS niece. I swear I'm not biased this little girl is the most beautiful baby. And she's so happy! She has the biggest smile and most adorable laugh. AND she can stick her feet in her mouth. Yeah, she's pretty awesome.

That night we went to the rehearsal and then went out to have a few (too many) drinks with Joel's BFF, sister and her BFF. AWESOME night! I am in love with Chicago. I really am. Friday was the wedding. It was a beautiful ceremony, and, as always, I cried. Mostly just remembering our own nuptials that took place less than 2 months ago. We danced all night. ALL NIGHT. My legs were aching the next day, but it was so worth it. And as tradition we did a late night White Castle visit.

Saturday was by far my favorite day. Joel's brother and sister in law threw a Christmas party since we were in town. We had done grab big gifts, and Meg even through together a White Elephant game. This is where Joel got the Christmas mugs and I got a car cleaning kit! Or course, we switched!

My grab bag gift was awesome. French coffee press, a teapot and $25 GC to Barnes and Noble. If you haven't had coffee from a press I HIGHLY recommend it. Coffee comes out creamy and rich. SO good.

This trip was the shortest trip we've taken up there. But it felt so important. I've always been close to Joel's sister, but this trip sealed the deal! She is SO awesome. I had a blast hanging out with her and serenading each other on the dance floor. She has the most amazing voice. We were SO glad to make her performance with her church's choir on Sunday morning. It was my first church choir experience, and it was so moving.

Leaving Chicago is always EXTREMELY sad. I cry. Joel cries. His mom cries. Living apart from family is the hardest thing, but we're making it work. I'm so glad to have a man that comes from a good family that is full of amazing people. I am so blessed. We are so blessed.