Seven years ago I arrived in Chicago in a UHaul carrying everything I owned. My parents might have thought that I was nuts to leave New York City, but when I visited friends in Chicago for a weekend I knew that I belonged here. Seven years, three apartments, and over a thousand blog posts later, I am still here. I thought it would be fitting for me to mark my anniversary with the city of Chicago by sharing some of my favorite things about the Windy City with you:
The Food
This just had to be the first on the list. The Chicago is a foodie paradise. It has anything and everything your heart could possibly desire. People ask me about my favorite restaurants all the time, and I must say that I still love Bavettes and Balena. Other favorites include Summer House, Eataly, RPM Italian, and Big Star. Plus, new restaurants open up all the time.
The Events
I grew up in a tiny town in Maine where not too much happened. In Chicago, we have so many events I don't even know what to do with myself. My summers are spent at Chicago Food + Wine, Chicago Gourmet, Lollapalooza, Windy City Smokeout, Shedd BLU, and other events. There is something amazing happening every weekend all summer long, and while things might slow down in the winter, I promise we still have lots of fun - we just stay indoors.
The Fireworks
There are fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday all summer long, because in Chicago, summer is something to celebrate, twice a week. (Also, it's super hard to get a decent photo of fireworks).
Lake Michigan
The view of the skyline from the lake is pure magical. And as someone that grew up beside the ocean, Lake Michigan seems just as big, but calmer.
The People
People in New York were stressed out. I remember being at the grocery store and feeling angry and stressed out that I had to wait in line to pay - it was as if the stress from everyone was contagious and I caught it. It isn't like that in Chicago. People will hold doors open for you, smile at you when passing you on the sidewalk, and just be nice. I have meet the nicest group of friends here, and they make my life so fun. The girls and I had the best weekend ever last weekend hopping from Chicago Food + Wine to leisurely brunches.
The Chocolate Smell
Yes, parts of Chicago (River North especially) smell like chocolate, and it makes me think of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and it brightens my day.
Thanks for seven of the best years of my life Chicago! This is the city where I met my husband, created a career for myself, and I am happy to call both Chicago and Maine home.
