Living the (urban) dream

I must admit, it’s been a while. How are you?

There have been countless events the past few months that have made me pause and reflect. Some lucky and some unlucky. Most notably, I’ve had a huge change in scenery. I went from living in Logan Square and working in River North to living in South Loop and working in the Loop.

But, sometimes a change in scenery is just what you (I) need.

The views in this city are amazing. But everyday, for the past week and a half, I’ve taken in this particularly breathtaking view and realized just how lucky I am. I’m more or less living the life I’ve always imagined.

I have a sweet husband who makes me laugh everyday.

I have incredible, interesting friends who make me a better person.

I live in an amazing apartment in a delightful city.

I have a fun job that challenges me and enables me write everyday.

The only thing that would make it perfect would be having all of my family and close friends here. But alas, you can’t have it all.

So, before you throw up, I promise to post less about the sap and more about the weird.

Cheers to living the dream, whatever yours is.

I have a new boyfriend

Ukrainian Village has been good to me. He’s been fun, loyal and loving.  Still, I’m moving on.

We’re moving to Logan Square next month.

Ukie, don’t cry. You’re great. It’s not you, it’s me. I feel like we’ve been growing apart the past few months. And it just sort of…happened with Logan Square. He charmed me with his bigger, less-expensive apartments, hip restaurants and tree-lined boulevards. Can we still be friends?

In all seriousness, the decision to move to Logan Square happened in an act of passion. I’m a little sad to move. While there are certainly issues motivating me to pack up and go, we adore Ukrainian Village and certain features of our current apartment.

Things I’ll miss about Ukrainian Village:

Being close, yet pleasantly removed, from the action of Wicker Park

My fave wine and flower shop, A. Vision

Lovely neighborhood joints. There are too many to name, but faves include Happy Village (for its lovely outdoor patio) and Kasia’s (for its ridiculously delicious Polish delights)

Being within walking distance of a grocery store

And of course, the view from the roofdeck of my current building

I could go on forever. I haven’t even mentioned my one-bus commute, Sunrise Cafe, Jam, Black Dog Gelato, Club Foot or Chick Pea. I will miss.

Moving is annoying, but a part of the urban experience. I wouldn’t have been opposed to staying in Ukrainian Village. We just kept our options open when looking for places and the winning apartment happened in Logan Square. But it’s fun discovering new restaurants, shops and bars. I’m excited.

I’ll still hang out with Ukrainian Village. After all, I’m still on friendly terms with my old boyfriend Lakeview. We meet up every so often for dinner, a movie or coffee. Since Ukie and I are parting on amicable terms, I have a feeling that we’ll do a better job staying in touch.