kingsland: the farewell tour.

The old saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Well, the words never rang more true (slightly dramatic) when we (unofficially) said farewell to the lakehouse. (unofficial since it hasn't sold yet)

It was really a picture-perfect weekend at the lake. We enjoyed a quick boat ride shortly upon our arrival. This was followed by a delicious dinner of salmon, salad and beer bread. We toasted yet another glorious sunset with a bottle of prosecco. This was followed by star gazing and homemade strawberry shortcake...a perfect night.
















The next day, we woke up early, went to church, grabbed coffee at the local Kingsland Coffee and jumped on the lake for some skiing. I'm not gonna lie. It had been a while since I took the skis out for a spin and I was worried I might be a bit rusty. I was pleasantly surprised to get up on the first go round and enjoy a nice leisurely ski...until my back started hurting and I let go. (knowing full well, at that point, how sore I was going to be the next day) Nevertheless, it was a great way to send the lake out in style and I was smiling from ear to ear the entire ride.




There may or may not have have been a music video (or 2) thrown in there along with multiple rounds of bananagrams, but I'll leave out the evidence for now. We took a few more pics out by the lake before we said goodbye and then headed straight to the Salt Lick. I had heard of this epic barbecue destination for years now, but never made it to the place to try it for myself. It was high time to sample the delights and suffice it to say, I was not disappointed. Not only did we get to eat awesome barbecue, but we also got to take advantage of Salt Lick Cellars: the winery on the property. It was by far the best experience I have had at a winery, thus far. Every single sip I tasted was delicious and unique. I give the winery 2 very enthusiastic thumbs up.








When they called our name, we were more than ready to dig in. We finished the last of our wine and headed into the main dining room to feast on smoked turkey, sausage, ribs, pulled pork, cole slaw, potato salad and bread. We devoured every last bit and I was full to the brim the entire drive home (yes, all the way to Dallas).





As I was driving through the familiar hills of Austin on my way back home, I shed a tear or two. The memories that have been made over the past few years are some of the dearest, most joyful times in my life. When I recall the impromptu dance parties, delicious meals cooked together in the kitchen, countless toasts, new experiences (wineries, concerts, restaurants, etc.), nights spent gazing at the stars, meaningful and intimate conversations where I am reminded of Christ and His love...they are priceless and worth far more than any possession. And so, I leave you with a little banangrams tribute (how very appropriate):

what's the happs?

Well I've been a terribly inconsistent blogger over the past few weeks/month. It's not that I don't have posts I want to put up. I just simply have not made the time. And truth be told, I'm in the market for a new computer as mine has been on the fritz for about a month. Excuses aside, here's a quick rundown on the happs lately.

Last month, we celebrated Nick's 2nd Annual 29th birthday (AKA his 30th birthday). The weekend was full of festivities which included dinner at Babe's, presents, cake (made specially with a pic of one of his skydiving adventures - Michelle came up with that idea), champagne, swimming, dinner at Mattitos, bowling and more. He definitely took some heat for crossing the bridge from 20's to mid-life (ha ha), but all in all, I think everyone had a great time celebrating.







Father's Day was also that weekend, so we took time out on Sunday to honor the fathers in our lives. Rudy's was on the menu, and let me just forewarn everyone for next year: if you're considering takeout from Rudy's next Father's Day, DON'T. Just don't do it. Get it any other day, but do not go there on Father's day. Anyway, we had a very relaxing day which just involved eating lots of barbecue and watching golf.




Also in June was a girls weekend with Crystal and Meagan. We visited Delaney Vineyards (took the tour and enjoyed the tasting), hung out at Meagan's house, hit up Fort Worth, ate dinner at Reata and had a slumber party. It was such a fun day and so great to be able to spend time with my old high school besties.





Up next was July 4th weekend which included a whole lotta lake time, reading, dancing, eating, swimming, star gazing and firework watching. It was a glorious time with each sunset being more magnificent than the rest. There was homemade apple pie, a rooftop dance party, glow sticks and countless games of banangrams. I savored every minute as it's one of the last weekends I'll have at the lakehouse with my dear fousins. They are about to head 'em up and move 'em out -- right on out to D.C. They will be dearly missed by yours truly, so we had to make the most of every moment.












And finally, I leave you with a couple shots of my loves. I've had the privilege of spending quite a bit of time with these two little stinkers as of late and I've enjoyed every single minute of it. Our dinners to Chick-fil-a have been nothing short of adventurous and I've cherished our couch time where I'm sandwiched between the two of them watching "How to Train Your Dragon" for the 852nd time. Take particular note of the 2nd shot where it appears Meredith is throwing up the deuces...classic.



And there you have it, a warp speed tour of the past couple months. Until we meet again, keep it classy.