East Coast bound

I headed back East to Mass the week after Christmas.  It felt like a long overdue trip.  I love my "home" and especially love seeing everyone back there. I was able to travel to Connecticut to see some friends right before they had their first baby (literally, right before..within hours).  I also was able to see my Aunt Lynne and cousins that I hadn't seen in some time.  They cooked a really great meal for Shana and I and it was just fun to catch up.  I also headed to Maine one night to spend the evening with my Aunt Kim, cousin Gregory and their friends.  They also cooked some great food (my trip was somewhat navigated by food) and were extremely generous with three ridiculously cute outfits for the baby.  One outfit for 3 distinct stages. 

Most of my time was spent North of Boston (the North Shore) which is my home-area.  I moved a bit growing up so I kind of consider a few towns, my hometown.  I got to see so many friends and see where they are at in life.  I feel like I haven't been gone that long but it was apparent to me that 3 years can make a huge difference.  Friends have been married, had kids, got new jobs, moved to other countries, etc.  I am thankful for everyone who took the time to hang out and catch up with me.  I kind of landed there right after most had already taken their vacation time and where headed back to work but I was so appreciative of the time I did get to spend with friends and family. 

A few of my favorite pictures from the trip...

Brenna was 3 months ahead of me...really not too much bigger than me.  It was fun to be red-headed bump buddies for the weekend.

Brenna just hours before her baby Caroline made her debut.

Shana was my buddy the entire trip (She is also a Captain!).  She took care of me and was super generous with rides and lending me her car to see friends and family.

Ice cream and frozen yogurt are always welcome back home - even if it is snowing outside.

Shana coordinated a little baby shower/get together at my favorite restaurant "Not Your Average Joes."

I am always trying to convince people out here, the best ice cream is back east.  Here is some proof...homemade Richardsons!

And this is a small...I usually go for a kiddie but I went "big" with a small this time.  Chocolate and mint patty frozen yogurt.

Loved my time catching up with Faith and eating more ice cream.