Introductions

Starting a new job is something like being the new girlfriend. There's the honeymoon period. The butterflies and anxious nights. And the process of slowly moving in some of your things. And learning a whole new cast of characters. And of course the ex - the mysterious one before you that left her mark, for good or for bad, and whose shadow you must live under for a while.

But despite this only being the first week, I can safely say this is The One which means, it's time for introductions.

My job is housed inside an old, ivy clad 1920's building which has been brilliantly incorporated into the new building:






My office, with it's loft space, looks like a secret club.




Behind me at my desk are two bright windows. What you can't see with my little iPhone camera is the lake. Yes girls, I got one with a lake view.





I'll admit, I'm smitten.

No Editing Necessary

Sunset on the lake - just a 60 second walk from my apartment. Yeah, I think I can live here for a little while.

Last Day Adventures

There is something just a little anti-climactic about having your last day off be EVERYBODY'S day off. My secret little city that I've had total run of these last two months is suddenly flooded with people. Where did they all come from and how do they know all my favorite shops and streets?

On the other hand, what better way to celebrate than to stumble upon and join in a parade (really):






It was the Lakeview DIY Parade but they had a marching band and all and so I couldn't resist.

This all happening while on my way to do some last minute shopping. Oh, the spoils of Memorial Day Weekend:








A bit of necessity before starting a new job and a bit of self indulgence for starting a new job.

I am excited to start tomorrow. Anxious. Ready. But...I have loved these two months of reflection, growth and healing. How I will miss these adventurous mornings and quiet afternoons.






Tomorrow, a new era awaits. Stay tuned....

None other than Springfield, IL

 

 

 

I don't know why I picked it, exactly. It's not a typical last hurrah sort of trip. I mean originally I was looking at Cabo resort packages.
And while there were no margaritas on the beach it was a PHENOMENAL trip and a perfect reminder that it's more than possible to find excitement and wonder in your own backyard. For someone like me, starting a scary new job, that was a much needed refresher course in adventure.

Last hint

Destination unknown

Any guesses?

Phase 1

 

Sufjan Stevens' Illinois blaring from the speakers we bid farewell to Chicago.
No roadtrip is complete without:

 

 a small town diner breakfast (Rosie's),

 

  a stop at a bizarre little museum (Isle a la Cache),

 

 a torrential downpour

 and a completely unnecessary detour (Beer Nuts factory).

In other words, Phase 1 of roadtrip complete.