While Alina was away...

...Justin and I had a chance to play. We had a fun going out several nights, while Alina was gone to Texas with her grandparents. Although we missed her very much, it was a refreshing time to spend together.
Here's some of what we did:
Wednesday: We went to our small group Christmas party. Then I had a chance to have coffee and conversation with a friend.
Thursday: We went shopping and then ate at Blue Cactus. After dinner, we went to the Nickelodeon to see some friends of ours play a Christmas show. It was a really good time to hang out and enjoy some good local music in Columbia.
Friday: My friend Mandy got married in Aiken, and we were able to attend without worrying about a babysitter again. It was a beautiful wedding, but the best part was the charge to the couple from their pastor. He did an amazing job showing the beauty of marriage and its symbolism to our relationship with Christ. It was a good time to think about our vows and what they really mean.
Saturday: I got to sleep and shop!
Sunday: After church, we headed out to Atlanta to see some friends on our way to Texas. Our friend Chris was in his church's Christmas program and we were able to attend. It was awesome! The music was great and the pastor did an amazing job remind us to focus on Christ during all the hectic times of this season.

Overall it was a time to refresh in the way we think about our marriage and Christmas! We missed Alina, but know that she had a great time with her grandparents and we enjoyed time together. Now we are all back together with family in Texas!