The drive from Columbia to Chicago was the longest I've ever taken. It really made me feel that I was moving far away, compared to flying and magically arriving at my destination. We drove through SC, NC, TN, KY, IN, and finally, Illinois. I trekked from the beach through the sand hills, mountains, plains, and finally to the windy city! While it was interesting to experience the different landscapes of our country, Mom, Brizz, and I were definitely exhausted and thankful to see the great Chicago skyline on Friday afternoon!
One of the most fascinating views on our trip was of the wind turbines in the fields of Indiana. I have always loved the turbines, and there were hundreds of them that continued forever into vast open fields. We could see the giant blades up close right beside the road and watch them spinning off into the distance. The best part was me trying not to run off the road while I was taking pictures of them!
rest stop somewhere in Indiana
After 12 hours on the road we stopped for a much needed night's rest in Indianapolis. Poor Brizzie did NOT want to get back in her crate the next morning. I tried to reassure her that we only had 3 hours left, but she didn't believe me. She was such a good doggie the whole trip, even though she wasn't a happy doggie.
are we there yet?
It was very surreal driving into Chicago and thinking that this is my new home, but I am so excited to be here and couldn't wait to see my husband and kitties, get settled and explore my new city!
ahhhhh.....my first view of Chicago.....the end is in sight!
Miraculously we navigated through the city with no problems (thanks to Mom's GPS) and arrived at beautiful Lakeshore East Park, our final destination! We live on a 6 acre park complete with fountains and a dog park. Brizz is in heaven.....and so are we! Justin couldn't have found a better location or building. There is a little Italian cafe on the park (with gelatto...uh oh), a CVS within walking distance and views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River!
furry friends!
We hit the sea of moving boxes full force Friday afternoon, but after a while couldn't resist the gorgeous 70 degree weather and the city....the boxes will have to wait! Mom and I decided to play tourist on Saturday and window shopped on Michigan Ave., took an architectural boat tour, and visited Navy Pier.
Sears Tower Trump International
boat tour
it's a little bit windy!
Mom left this afternoon :( and Justin and I made our first grocery trip.....on the free shuttle provided by our building!! How awesome is that?! We also ventured into the suburbs to Meijer (Wal-Mart) and IKEA. (Justin is skillfully assembling our new cabinet tonight.) We were so proud of ourselves for making it back into the city without a hitch. We even navigated the crazy stacked streets like pros!
Watching the Navy Pier end of summer fireworks from the top of our building Saturday night, I was in awe of the vibrance of this city. I feel so lucky to have the chance to live here. It's going to take a while for this all to sink in. :)
