A lot can happen in 3 years. Looking back on my move to the Midwest, I really had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I moved here on a whim, deciding that once and for all the Arizona heat was too much for me and I needed something different. I didn’t have a clue that Chicago would grow to be my favorite place in the world, a place where I built a life that was mine.
As I look back at my photos from my time so far in Chicago, I can’t help but feel incredibly nostalgic – a mix of a little sad and a lot of happy. Sad because I wish I could go back to the feeling of discovering Chicago for the first time; happy because I know this city like the back of my hand and am proud to call it home.
I’ve had some (many) fuzzy nights at Joes on Weed St dancing to Rod Tuffcurls and the Bench Press. I’ve danced in an old bridesmaids dress on the United Center court during a Bull’s game halftime show. I’ve jumped in Lake Michigan simply because it was hot out. I’ve taken so many selfies at the Bean that I could make an entire album dedicated to them. I’ve laid in bed in my old Wrigleyville apartment and listened to Billy Joel play Piano Man all the way from Wrigley Field.
I’ve spent the holidays with my family in the suburbs and grown closer to them. I’ve stayed at the Hangge Uppe until they kicked us out because they were closing. I’ve volunteered to go on stage at The Second City. I’ve ice skated at Millennium Park. I’ve taken a walk to Lake Michigan in a pure blizzard just to see what it looked like (and to make snow angels). I’ve watched them dye the river green for St. Patrick’s Day. I’ve put on more layers than I can count.
I’ve gone to the LP Farmer’s Market just to get crepes and peonies. I’ve attended the Pride Parade and sobbed at the beauty of love. I’ve ridden a Divvy bike to Adler to watch the sunset. I’ve gone to see The Wizard of Oz in Oz Park (how meta). I’ve eaten Lou Malnati’s until I couldn’t breathe I was so full.
I’ve drank margaritas on Big Star’s patio until the sun went down. I’ve sat in Intelligentsia on Broadway doing work for an entire day at a time (and it’s where I started my blog on a random Sunday afternoon in 2015). I’ve done yoga on Wrigley Field. I’ve celebrated the Cubs winning the World Series until 3am. I’ve hosted a Shabbat dinner for 30 people on a rooftop.
I’ve taken countless architecture tours and enjoyed every one. I’ve gone to Lollapalooza and seen my favorite bands in my favorite city. I’ve seen the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and cried during that too (are you sensing a pattern here?). I’ve visited the Art Institute too many times to count. I’ve played intramural dodgeball, kickball, softball, and volleyball, even though I used to hate sports. I’ve taken guitar classes at the Old Town School of Folk Music.
I’ve walked miles and miles around the city and never tired of it, especially the gorgeous skyline. I’ve trekked to Jeni’s in a polar vortex because I can’t live without ice cream.
Most importantly, I’ve built my circle. I’ve made the most amazing friends, who I know will be in my life forever. In 2013, I never in a million years would have pictured my life to look like this but I am so, so so grateful that it does.
Here’s to you, Chicago! My home sweet home.
In celebration of this special anniversary, I recently purchased a Doorstep Necklace from Packed Party with my first apartment’s address engraved on it (3602). Packed Party is one of my favorite girl-boss-ran companies and I’ve been wanting this necklace for a looong time! I’ll be giving one away on Instagram very soon so follow me and stay tuned!
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P.S. If you liked this post, you may like my favorite ice cream in Chicago, 10 places to get your creativity on in Chicago, what to buy for a Chicago winter, Chicago fall bucket list, and my first anniversary post.
