Yesterday was the last day of 2010. It ended on a supremely good note. After having a rough day before then, I determined that I would end the year well. Sometimes you just have to make a day a good one. I didn’t have to force too much though, since they day included so many great plans.

I started off with a quick circuit style workout. I used the very first fitness DVD I ever owned and completed. The Beachbody Slim in 6 workout.

It’s a very basic mix of light cardio and strength moves with a resistance band. It makes a perfect beginner workout – or late pregnancy workout in this case. I got pretty sweaty and my legs were certainly feeling it by the end.

After my workout, Peter & I headed out to meet up with some friends for lunch. Thomas and I go way back. We’ve known each other and been friends for over 15 years! So crazy to think that. We only get to see each other a few times a year because he now lives up north.

We have our little tradition of going to O’Charley’s. It’s a chain I don’t mind. Mainly because I am in love with their California Chicken salad – chicken, oranges, strawberries, pecans, spinach, blue cheese…yum! Please excuse the recycled super old photo from my blog. I may not be much good at photography, but at least better than this now.

I also forgot to snap a picture of the group of us together, so here is one from their wedding we attended over the summer.

There’s certainly something special about those old friendships. No matter how long we go without seeing each other or talking regularly, the bond will never cease.

Later that night, we spent our time with “newer” friends though. We have developed such amazing friendships through our small group at church. I really do not know what I would do without them and couldn’t imagine ringing in the New Year with any other group of people.

We had a low-key evening with lots of chatting, lots of laughing.

And lots of eating.

Yes, that would be Jess’ Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip. And yes, it is as fabulous as it appeared on her blog. In fact, having the chance to make that for our NYE party almost makes baby B still residing in my stomach worthwhile. Now let’s see how much longer he plans to chill in there. I’ve been having some minor contractions again…we just have to wait to see if they disappear or increase. I’m certainly praying and crossing my fingers for the latter.

Question of the Day – What’s the oldest friendship you have? What did you do for New Year’s Eve?

I’m in love with yesterday. It was seriously such a good day! After the holiday brunch party, we came home and I had a little bit of time to relax and enjoy my Saturday. Only a little bit of time, though. I had to get in the kitchen.

Remember all of that Chobani I received? Well, I had to whip up a couple recipes to share on their site this upcoming week. I’m very pleased with my recipes. A dense, moist coffee cake and a chocolate peppermint mousse pie.

Don’t worry! I will share the link with these recipes once my post is featured on their blog for their “Featured Blogger” of the week.

During the madness in the kitchen I received some very exciting news. First, Sarah emailed me to let me know she had seen me in January’s issue of Fitness magazine. I didn’t have it on hand to look! Then, a little bit after that, Julie (who is also there!) sent out a tweet with a link to the same article online. I immediately clicked…then, of course found the magazine in the store later that night. Pretty surreal to see yourself in a magazine like Fitness. Exciting, too!

The day did not stop there, though. I continued on my happy high to dinner. For dinner, we met up with our friends at the Diner at Sugar Hill. This place was not a diner in the typical sense. They were a pretty nice joint with delicious food.

My friend Danielle & I decided to share 2 meals that sounded good – the turkey club and a chicken salad.

After seeing the meals we realized we should have just split one. We both ended up eating only the salad and a bite or two of the sandwich. Leftovers for lunch are never a bad thing, though. 😉

Once we finished dinner, we made the final stop on my exciting day – the Magical Nights of Lights at Lake Lanier. Normally, this holiday tradition in the Atlanta area is way, way, way overpriced, but we scored a Groupon and when split between 2 families it was pretty reasonable. I’m glad we went because it was a fun evening together. Lots of pretty lights…(because Sponge Bob represents Christmas just as well as the nativity scene)…

…some s’mores roasting (despite it being too cold for the chocolate to melt) in the Santa village…

…watching our 2 little girls have some fun together…

…and hanging out with great company.

I don’t think you can beat that for a good evening. It was a great evening to such a good day!

Question of the day: Best part of your weekend? Go!