Love & Laughter

I love being a part of renewal. When bad things get better and complaints turns into praises. This weekend was amazing, not only was my amazing boyfriend Seth in town but we also had Friendsgiving on Sunday. I am so blessed by my community. In every moment where life is a little bit rough they are there for me always encouraging me and cheering me on. What a beautiful few days spending quality time with Seth and all of the people in Chicago I love most.
Thursday night he got into town, couldn't have arrived at a better time, I needed a hug and to see that smile real bad. Friday we laid low since my week had been stressful. Made coffee and breakfast together the spent the afternoon over in Lakeview going in shops


drinking Intelligentsia coffee


and stopping by the church he used to live at to say hello. That evening he went to dinner with an old friend and I caught up on errands. Later we went on a double date with my lovely roommate Laura and her bf/our dear friend Anthony. So much fun! Then on to a housewarming party to meet up with everyone else.
Saturday morning we woke up and drove down to Peoria, South of Chicago about 3 hrs, to visit Seth's family for the day. That was really nice. His mom and step dad made dinner, completely vegetarian to my surprise, I thought that was so sweet! We had a really nice time relaxing, playing games with his younger brother & sister, as well as having his extended family over for pie (a bit overwhelming since Id never met any of them before, even though I am super social) I loved seeing where Seth spent part of his life as well as seeing a new part of the state. I really enjoy exploring.
Sunday was Friendsgiving in the afternoon so as soon as we woke up and had breakfast it was time to start cooking! Our main priority was to make a homemade pumpkin pie, completely from scratch. A pretty big endeavor and at first Seth didn't believe it was possible. How will that pumpkin turn into a pie? Magic : )
We baked the pumpkin, prepared the crust, and then once at Anthony's mixed the pumpkin with all the ingredients to make the pie filling. Then baked while we ate.
Ready to bake-


Friendsgiving was amazing, everyone showed up with big smiles, home cooked food, and tons of love. So many things to be thankful for.
I am most thankful for the unconditional love that our God in heaven reminds me of daily, we are beauty from ashes. And with community we are constantly reminded of that beauty within us as it radiates outward.
Kristina & I @ Friendsgiving


We all have so much to be thankful for this year, and every day. Remember that you are loved and also remind others of that. It could change someones life.