Austin, TX has such a sweet place in my heart. It’s where I had my first date ever in 2014, it’s where I first lived completely by myself, it’s where I fell in love for the first time, also where I had my heart completely shattered for the first time and fully understood losing someone I love, and in a more happy tone it’s where I met one of my dearest friends.

Coming back to Austin is always nostalgic and nerve-racking for me. But, with the help of Mama K, I found a special friend. 

You are all very much familiar with my gal-pal/work wife extraordinaire Corey. Reuniting is always my favorite part of coming into town. She makes me laugh until I can’t stop. Corey makes me believe there really is good in the world. She lifts up my spirit and makes the dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. I have a forever friend in her, and forever has no end.

The first thing I did when I came back to the ATX was call her up for brunch. We went to Banger’s on Rainey St (much better than 6th) and literally drank a liter of champagne aka a manmosa and just talked about the past six months in our lives…you know, men and friends and travels.

I felt back at home and after a long, first-half of 2017, I felt lighter and freer. Life’s just better with mashed potatoes and mimosas, and obviously, with genuine friends. It gave me hope that this whole post-grad thing would be okay and that my college friendships aren’t going to just fade away.

Through the years in my life and the many lost friendships along the way, I’m so blessed to have girls I can count on.

So cheers, because brunch without besties and champagne is really just a sad breakfast.

A special thank you to the team at Banger’s for hosting us and taking care of us. As always, all opinions are my own.