To the Moon and Back

12:00

"Jenna, have you seen my white  tie?" Hunter looked sharp in his black dress pants and shirt as we got ready for the Opry at the Ryman New Years Party. 

"I thought your ties were in the closet?"

"Found it," Hunter came into the washroom as I was curling  my hair, even though I was standing in a bra and underwear with my make up half done. "I don't know if I've seen your hair curly."

I smiled, "I'm blessed with a curse - my hair can be a blessing when it's straight but if you take me back to Louisiana on a hot July day with eighty percent humidity and it's like unlocking Pandora's Box." Hunter laughed as he finished suiting up. I finished my hair, did my eye make up and slipped into my dress. Hunter was in the living room setting Cole up with some fresh water.

"You look amazing," his lips curled into a smile as he took me by one hand and turned me around for a full look. "you know, you're just as beautiful without the fancy dresses and make up."

"Why thank you sweetie," I kissed his cheek, careful not to get lipstick stuck on him. "I like getting dolled up for these events. Mind if we take a selfie before we head out?" Hunter obliged, standing close to me and smiling. "This is instagram story worthy." We locked up and headed out to the party. 

The party was fantastic, and I had a chance to catch up with Danielle Bradbery and Dustin Lynch among others. We spent the evening dancing and socializing with more people than I could count. This was our first major outing since announcing that we were a couple, and I had a total fam girl moment in my head when I bumped into Carrie Underwood in the bathroom. She and Hunter toured a really long time ago, and she introduced herself to me! 

It was nearing the time for the countdown. 

Everyone counted down in unison, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 - HAPPY NEW YEAR! Balloons, confetti and glitter fell from the ceiling as Hunter turned to kiss me. It felt like time was frozen. 

"Happy New Year," he said, our faces close. He kissed me again and we clinked champagne glasses.

We gave New Years hugs and hand shakes to friends and slowly made our way back to Hunter's condo. We only had a few more days together and we were determined to make the most of it.