Thankful for Bella Monica

Last week, the Stinsons took us out to dinner.  Because we have been saving every extra penny, we have not been out to dinner like we usually enjoy.  However, we had not seen my parents in far too long and they wanted to treat us.  What they didn’t know was that it was more than a meal to fill our bellies.  We had a family friend as a waitress and other family friends that sat just down the aisle from us. It was a comfortable place and a cozy atmosphere.  Not only was the meal absolutely delicious... but the time spent with my parents was precious.  

It was so nice to relax and talk about our week and about changes in the house and trips to the beach and talk about marriage and really everything else under the sun.  It feels good to reap the wisdom from my parents and yet also feel like they are our close friends.  We get their guidance and their friendship, it is just too good to be true.  After seeing the hardships with some families and knowing that these moments are not something to be taken for granted, I really appreciated that dinner.  Adam and I were able to dress up and feel fancy and enjoy time with the people that mean so much to us.  As my dad so often states, “AMERICA.  It’s about the family... Strong families are what make America GREAT.” Well, Dad we can’t change other families, but we can keep our family strong and pass that on to our future generations.  Adam and I strive to have a family as close-knit as Dean and Cindy have kept all of us.  We love our family and are thankful for the models they have been for us. 

For those of you who haven’t tried this restaurant... it is a MUST. Great Italian food in a small Raleigh location.  Homegrown and Homefelt and Homemade. and the Tiramasu... not made here, but yeah, it’s imported from Italy. and its worth EVERY penny! :)

Salmon and orzo... Adam’s meal. DELECTABLE!