A different breed

Spending a few days in Chicago, and I can already tell that Chicagoans are a different breed. Yes, yesterday was a beautiful fall day- the sun was out and the leaves were wearing their most radiant gold, red, and brown hues. Yes, it was not extremely cold. I think it was in the low 50's. But there was still a chill in the air. I had my fall jacket and a scarf on with boots and jeans. Perfectly dressed, except maybe for the addition of a sweater. While walking outside, I saw others dressed as I was. Then, strange things started happening. People started to take their coats off... And they wore short sleeve shirts. Others, in just sweaters, discarded them. My friend sent me a message that we would be bringing ice cream to the dinner we were attending that evening... ICE CREAM. At the dinner, the windows were open to let in the "warm" air. I was chilly and thankful for the glass of red wine :)

BRRRR... Chicagoans are a tough breed. They have thick skin and very warm blood. I just need to invest in thicker coats and more layers. As the Russians say, there is no such thing as bad weather, just poor clothing.

In the Windy

Brrrr... Wow! It is chilly here.

So great to be back in Chicago and spend time with my family! I finally got to meet my niece and play with Carter! Such a blast.

I am also so lucky to be Stacey's guest! She is a breath of fresh air and just a wonderful gem of a friend.

I'm back!

Nicholas and I came back to NYC for at least the next couple of months. Nicholas will of course have to go back to SK once during this time, but it is great to actually be together!

I have enjoyed showing him more of the city that I love, even though we are now staying in Jersey. On the agenda, beyond eating delicious food at my favorite restaurants and long looong walks, is to take in a show or two, check out museums/galleries and different neighborhoods, and go to my favorite bars :)

And I'm off again!

I left in the middle of the night on a journey to take me to Germany for a reunion with those that were there when this whole thing started.

It was a last minute decision, but I booked my flight, packed for the next couple of months and boarded a flight all within hours. Now, as I am halfway there, I am reflecting on the past few months and years. I have logged more miles than I could have imagined, seen more of the world and met more interesting people than I knew possible. I almost passed up on this particular opportunity to be "responsible", but after telling a couple close friends and my parents, they all looked at me like I was a martian. I would give up a trip to see friends and go to an iconic event? Really? Was I feeling alright?

Well, you only live once. I'm off on my next adventure in Munich and beyond!