Well kids, my time in the Windy City has temporarily come to an end. I am back in Florida enjoying the warm weather, especially since it hasn’t been insufferably hot like it was when I left.
I look at my trip as time well spent, and though I have returned (for now) to Florida, I found that I can go out on my own and make a home for myself. I conquered a lot of fears and I have grown from the experience. I also love Chicago and can still see myself there when the time is right (read: job!)
Cold weather is still new to me, and I didn’t experience living in snow; both things that will come with time, but overall, but not impossible for this Florida girl. The “Big City” is also not as scary as everyone makes it out to be. I can honestly say that I never felt unsafe while in Chicago.
As far as making friends and meeting new people go, that’s where I grew the most. I have never been an outgoing person – I basically learned early on to put on this act to make people like you (aka how to survive growing up in Seminole 101.) This façade worked pretty well with the Alumni group I linked up with, but lucky for me I found a girl much like myself out of this group and we became fast friends. Don’t get me wrong, I love my sorority and the alumni, but you’re not going to click with each and every one of them.
I went out with my friends in the city not knowing a soul (besides the ones I went with and generally they didn’t know anyone either so it was kind of perfect.) I basically decided that I don’t care if anyone likes me or not – I’m just going to be me, if they like me, fantastic, a new friend, if not, I didn’t need them anyways. It scored me a lot more attention than I usually garnered going out and that was entertaining in itself... I’m sarcastic and outspoken, get used to it.
Finally, I met most of my goals but I did not get a job. Maybe that’s for the better, only time will tell. I did find places where I would be happy to call home in the city. I was very social but I didn’t meet anyone significant. I’m in better shape than when I left (and getting even more in shape every day.)
Essentially, I think this experience was a great way to find myself for the first time in months, maybe even years actually. I finally feel like the person I was before everything seemed to take a turn for the worse, and I’m happy to be back and reconnecting with friends and making new ones. I think this is the beginning of a new ear and I can’t wait to see where it takes me.
I am starting a new blog, which I will link to on here when I have it up and running. The reminder of this month is going to be dedicated to trying to get to my 50,000 words into my novel before NaNoWriMo is over and then I will start to focus more on a new site. Thanks for reading my journeys!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
The Great Adventure South!
If you haven’t heard, I have returned to the Sunshine State, much in the same way that I left – on a whim and suddenly, without fanfare or really telling anyone not directly involved. This seems to be the way I work – I made a decision and make it happen, which is why I’m so incredibly annoyed when I have to wait for others to make decisions!
Toying with the idea on Friday afternoon, I mentioned to CJ that she should fly up and drive back with me, and she did. That night. Best. Friend. EVER. I honestly couldn’t believe it when she called me with a flight ready to book it. She flew in at 10pm on Friday night and we left at 8am Saturday morning for the 18ish hour drive.
Sidenote: I hate road trips/driving. I wasn’t looking forward to spending almost an entire day in the car, but this trip was absolutely enjoyable. CJ and I have been besties since college and we play off one another constantly entertaining ourselves and anyone remotely near us. We laughed, sang and Tweeted (see @sashley31 and @carolynj84 on Twitter) the entire trip with photos and silly comments.
Highlights Included:
• We both dislike Indiana – too long of a state and nothing interesting about it.
• Cracker Barrel for lunch (in IN) was amazing – and way too much food.
• Stopped at Churchill Downs for a photo op! We both want to go to the Kentucky Derby one day – complete with hats and mint juleps of course!
• I went from novice to pro using a Blackberry.
• The Glee soundtrack.
• Tennessee was totally uneventful.
• Chick-fil-a in Georgia! They don’t have them in Chicago or surrounding areas.
• 100,000 times the RDA of vitamin B12… plus Red Bull…
• Georgia is also a VERY long state… with 42 miles of construction *$&#($).
• Thomas (my British GPA) gave up and fell off the windshield less than an hour before we got in. We think he was tired.
I dropped CJ at her car at the Orlando Airport around 4am and headed back to the Tampa Bay area alone – she disapproved greatly to this btw – and pulled into my driveway at 6:30am. The thought of sleeping for a few hours before having to get back into the car and drive for another few hours was horrifying – so I just finished it off and enjoyed driving with the Chrysler and the Publix truck through the fog on I4.
Seven hours of sleep later, my favorite meal (my mom rocks), and unpacking done – I am still exhausted and trying desperately to stay awake for a bit longer. So the job search continues, but I am back in Florida… for the time being!
I have a few things to wrap up on this blog, so check back for those posts.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Cold Weather, Hot Trends
Perhaps I enjoy cold weather clothing simply because it is still a novelty to me, but no matter what the reason, I find these trends SO attractive! I also think that it makes the warm weather clothing dresses, short, tank top, etc. much more appealing, covering up for so long and then finally showing off a bit of skin, rather than always being on display, adds a little something.
Jeans, sweaters, boots and coats, they simply scream HOT more times than not. I love seeing guys in argyle sweaters and Converse with a blazer and girls can look simply sexy in just jeans and a hoodie when pairing them with Converse as well (maybe I just like Converse?) Who am I kidding, maybe I'm just lazy and love the ability to throw something on and it look pretty good?
I also love love love the comfort factor in being able to wear warm clothes (think fitted track suits) for errands on a Saturday morning as long as you make yourself look presentable. Granted, this last element may be particular to Chicagoland, but either way, I like it.
Now, being in the cold (and yes, it does get cold – I admit it) I have changed my opinions on lots of things:
Scarves: Wow, they are more than just fashionable, they really keep you warm!
Boots: I take back my previous opinion on Uggs… I do not own a pair... yet... but should I be here through Winter, I will be purchasing a pair of these cozy darlings. Also, the sexy knee high boot style will not be lost on me either.
Fleece: Previously, I had enjoyed you only in the form of a blanket, but I now understand your usefulness in clothing form. But, I will not be purchasing the black/gray Northface pullover that I saw no less than 10 people wearing yesterday in the library. I plan on embracing my inner Floridian and going with bright colors.
Slippers: You were not much use in Florida, but here, you are a necessity.
Coats: So many adorable styles, and awesome pockets. I could easily acquire a closet full of them and not think twice about it.
Yes, I am a sheltered southern girl at heart, but I’m learning the ways of the unforgiving cold rather quickly!
Jeans, sweaters, boots and coats, they simply scream HOT more times than not. I love seeing guys in argyle sweaters and Converse with a blazer and girls can look simply sexy in just jeans and a hoodie when pairing them with Converse as well (maybe I just like Converse?) Who am I kidding, maybe I'm just lazy and love the ability to throw something on and it look pretty good?
I also love love love the comfort factor in being able to wear warm clothes (think fitted track suits) for errands on a Saturday morning as long as you make yourself look presentable. Granted, this last element may be particular to Chicagoland, but either way, I like it.
Now, being in the cold (and yes, it does get cold – I admit it) I have changed my opinions on lots of things:
Scarves: Wow, they are more than just fashionable, they really keep you warm!
Boots: I take back my previous opinion on Uggs… I do not own a pair... yet... but should I be here through Winter, I will be purchasing a pair of these cozy darlings. Also, the sexy knee high boot style will not be lost on me either.
Fleece: Previously, I had enjoyed you only in the form of a blanket, but I now understand your usefulness in clothing form. But, I will not be purchasing the black/gray Northface pullover that I saw no less than 10 people wearing yesterday in the library. I plan on embracing my inner Floridian and going with bright colors.
Slippers: You were not much use in Florida, but here, you are a necessity.
Coats: So many adorable styles, and awesome pockets. I could easily acquire a closet full of them and not think twice about it.
Yes, I am a sheltered southern girl at heart, but I’m learning the ways of the unforgiving cold rather quickly!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Late Twenties
There comes a time when we realize that we are in fact, getting older. This has happened a few times in recent years among my friends and I, and this past weekend spoke specifically to the laziness that consumes us after particularly tough work weeks.*
Saturday night, the generally accepted “big night out” turned into a “big night in” for LT, CS and I, totally they’re choice. No one wanted to plan anything, so I took charge. Margaritas and tv were mentioned, and I sent out a time and a place.
The evening began with a liquor run – as LT is a self-professed snob when it comes to spirits. Not only did I learn the differences in tequila, but I learned a very important Chicago lesson:
Being from the South (Florida still technically counts as “South” even though it isn’t really) this is utterly amazing to me. Publix, in all of its magnificence (I miss the deli!) only sold beer and wine, and if you were lucky they had a liquor store in the same plaza.
After visiting no less than 3 stores, none up to par for LT, we headed back and he made margaritas with the anjeo he had (2.5 shots per glass, yeah…) and we laughed through Death to Smoochy.
Needing to get out for a bit, we walked around the Gold Coast, stopped into Gibson’s for a round of Dirty Martini’s and appetizers.
Uninterested in the bar scene that night, we headed back to the couch, ending the evening with my first ever viewing of the Aristocrats. I laughed and gasped at the vulgarity.
All in all, a fantastic low-key evening and fantastic cocktails. I’m just thrilled that at this point in our lives, we have all figured out that a night in with good friends can beat a bar any day.
* The irony is not lost on me, currently a professional job searcher – this is in relation to my wonderful friends who had stressful weeks at work.
Saturday night, the generally accepted “big night out” turned into a “big night in” for LT, CS and I, totally they’re choice. No one wanted to plan anything, so I took charge. Margaritas and tv were mentioned, and I sent out a time and a place.
The evening began with a liquor run – as LT is a self-professed snob when it comes to spirits. Not only did I learn the differences in tequila, but I learned a very important Chicago lesson:
CVS, 7-11 and grocery stores ALL sell liquor!!!
Being from the South (Florida still technically counts as “South” even though it isn’t really) this is utterly amazing to me. Publix, in all of its magnificence (I miss the deli!) only sold beer and wine, and if you were lucky they had a liquor store in the same plaza.
After visiting no less than 3 stores, none up to par for LT, we headed back and he made margaritas with the anjeo he had (2.5 shots per glass, yeah…) and we laughed through Death to Smoochy.
Needing to get out for a bit, we walked around the Gold Coast, stopped into Gibson’s for a round of Dirty Martini’s and appetizers.
Uninterested in the bar scene that night, we headed back to the couch, ending the evening with my first ever viewing of the Aristocrats. I laughed and gasped at the vulgarity.
All in all, a fantastic low-key evening and fantastic cocktails. I’m just thrilled that at this point in our lives, we have all figured out that a night in with good friends can beat a bar any day.
* The irony is not lost on me, currently a professional job searcher – this is in relation to my wonderful friends who had stressful weeks at work.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Coulda Shoulda Woulda...
Had I been thinking ahead, I should have headed downtown early this morning with my computer... Then I would have been in the area when the Oprah/Ellen event was announced. Alas, I wasn't thinking and I fell asleep without setting an alarm.
Just before 10am @TheEllenShow tweeted that she and Oprah would be signing the first 1,000 issues of the December issue of O Magazine (the one with them both on the cover) at 10:30am in Water Tower Park. The time it would take for me to get ready and down there, they would be long gone, so no adventure for me :( Would have loved to meet them both though!
Off to find what trouble I can with the remainder of the day!
Just before 10am @TheEllenShow tweeted that she and Oprah would be signing the first 1,000 issues of the December issue of O Magazine (the one with them both on the cover) at 10:30am in Water Tower Park. The time it would take for me to get ready and down there, they would be long gone, so no adventure for me :( Would have loved to meet them both though!
Off to find what trouble I can with the remainder of the day!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Oprah + Ellen = ?
Ok, I admit it, I'm a nerd. But, most of you already know that. This is momentarily evidenced by the fact that I have a Twitter account and follow all kinds friends, celebrities, causes and companies. It has proved incredibly beneficial in discounts, political information, letting me know the Metro Theater was going to be on Ghost Lab a few nights ago, and now, a potential Friday adventure!
This tweet came through tonight from @TheEllenShow and you damn well better believe I'm intrigued:
If only I had a partner in crime that wasn't working tomorrow!
This tweet came through tonight from @TheEllenShow and you damn well better believe I'm intrigued:
If only I had a partner in crime that wasn't working tomorrow!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Welcome to the Jungle...
Last week was all around uneventful. I spent Wednesday chauffeuring CS around the city and the suburbs of Illinois to make deliveries for her work. We had lots of time to plan out our weekend attack, have lunch at Panera and get her home from work at the same time she would have been just leaving the office.
When Friday rolled around my costume was complete and I headed into the city for round one of Halloween fun. After spending 40 minutes searching for free street parking in Lakeview I found a spot out by the hospital. As referenced earlier, parallel parking is not something I excel at. I only knew I could fit in this spot because the person pulling out was driving the same car as I drive and approximately 64 maneuvers later I was in the spot. Times like this make me miss my little car back in FL!
The party was held at the Rocking Horse in Logan Square. Another very cute area, closer to downtown, so obviously more expensive. A costume party, of course, and everyone came dressed to the nines!
CS and I represented the jungle, she as Temptation the snake from the Garden of Eden, and I a Cheetah. We were joined by Annie Hall and Alvy Singer, Batman and Catwomen, a blind ref, Calvin and Hobbs, Sookie Stackhouse, an Angel, the Devil, a scattering of vampires, a pig, an army guy, Wayne (minus Garth sadly), a pilgrim and an Indian, Wonder Women and 007. Those are just the ones I can actually remember, as the open bar has clouded my memory slightly… The group generally took over the entire bar and everyone was incredibly friendly.
That is one thing I absolutely cannot say enough about in Chicago, everyone is genuinely nice. At least, everyone I have hung around with – and that’s a big change from the “better than you” attitudes that run wild in other areas. Also, it is the #3 city for singles - lucky me!
After such a fun evening, and that open bar… Saturday was spent recovering. A McDonald's Happy Meal with a large coke, B12, bottles of water, a ridiculously hot shower and a 4 hour nap, and I was ready to doll myself up and do it all again. Sadly, CS wasn’t up to rallying and so we stayed in watching tv and ordered food. It was nice after the previous evening to chill, but I can’t say it was my first choice.
Now, my month may be up, but I have been granted a reprieve for a few more weeks to see a few things through here. So, the Chicago Experiment is not over yet!
When Friday rolled around my costume was complete and I headed into the city for round one of Halloween fun. After spending 40 minutes searching for free street parking in Lakeview I found a spot out by the hospital. As referenced earlier, parallel parking is not something I excel at. I only knew I could fit in this spot because the person pulling out was driving the same car as I drive and approximately 64 maneuvers later I was in the spot. Times like this make me miss my little car back in FL!
The party was held at the Rocking Horse in Logan Square. Another very cute area, closer to downtown, so obviously more expensive. A costume party, of course, and everyone came dressed to the nines!
CS and I represented the jungle, she as Temptation the snake from the Garden of Eden, and I a Cheetah. We were joined by Annie Hall and Alvy Singer, Batman and Catwomen, a blind ref, Calvin and Hobbs, Sookie Stackhouse, an Angel, the Devil, a scattering of vampires, a pig, an army guy, Wayne (minus Garth sadly), a pilgrim and an Indian, Wonder Women and 007. Those are just the ones I can actually remember, as the open bar has clouded my memory slightly… The group generally took over the entire bar and everyone was incredibly friendly.
That is one thing I absolutely cannot say enough about in Chicago, everyone is genuinely nice. At least, everyone I have hung around with – and that’s a big change from the “better than you” attitudes that run wild in other areas. Also, it is the #3 city for singles - lucky me!
After such a fun evening, and that open bar… Saturday was spent recovering. A McDonald's Happy Meal with a large coke, B12, bottles of water, a ridiculously hot shower and a 4 hour nap, and I was ready to doll myself up and do it all again. Sadly, CS wasn’t up to rallying and so we stayed in watching tv and ordered food. It was nice after the previous evening to chill, but I can’t say it was my first choice.
Now, my month may be up, but I have been granted a reprieve for a few more weeks to see a few things through here. So, the Chicago Experiment is not over yet!
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