Ciao 2012, Ciao 2013

Even though it was far from fun to leave Italy, being home for Christmas was wonderful. Unfortunately, my oldest sister was unable to come home for Christmas, and my brother and his wife spent Christmas with her family so our 7 person family was reduced to 4, plus Delilah. Of course. But Caroline got to skype in for part of the morning and we opened up our presents from her and even the presents for her that had been sent to the house. I love this picture of Caroline skyping in Christmas morning. The three sisters reunited! 

Mary Catherine opening a present for Caroline 

the Walker Family Christmas Tree

As I mentioned in my last post, one of my dearest childhood friends, Corinn, got married over Christmas break. It was such a joyous time to spend with her and her (then) fiance / (now) husband Micah and hear about how God had worked in their lives to bring them together. I could not have been more honored to be a part of this celebration. I can't even think of what to write to express how wonderful it was. The decorations were all handmade and were so precious. I even swiped some of those precious pom poms after the wedding and they're now hanging on my wall in my room. 

Corinn and the girls

the wedding party

Of course, after Christmas comes New Years. We may be 16 days in at this point, but I still can't believe that it's 2013. Absurd. But even more, I can't believe how much 2012 held for me. In short: 2 5Ks, 2 returns to Texas, a wonderful summer at camp, a great trip to Nashville to visit a sister and a friend, 1 full family gathering, 2 trips to Paris, 109 incredible days in Europe, 2 monumentally beloved new friends, 4 American visitors, and a joyous marriage. Blessings upon blessings upon blessings.

2012 in 16 pictures

And as is almost always the case, the first big thing of the new year is the trip back to North Carolina for school. The 19 hour drive from Texas through Tennessee and North Carolina is always a favorite of mine. It means long days on the road, great scenery, lots of coffee, and lots of quality time with one of the parentals. There truly are few things that I love more than a good road trip. 

saying goodbye to Texas and hitting the road with this cutie and two cups of coffee

lunch break on the river in the Carolina Smokies