Cherish These...

What I Value -

• My faith. That which is bigger than all else and sustains me through every challenge, joy, heartache and fear.
• My family. No matter what comes along in life, my family is at the center of it. Agree or disagree there is no doubt endless love. As a parent I feel such pride in the amazing people my daughters have turned out to be. As a wife I am constantly amazed by the countless ways my husband stands by me, loves me. As a daughter I can see that you never outgrow the need for your parents love and support. I am so lucky to have that - always!
• My friends. We keep each others council, share each others joys and concerns and PLAY. Never stop making time to laugh and play!
• New Experiences. Getting outdoors and finding the beauty in the world.
• To be continued...
  

Welcome to Chicago

Is that sunshine? Amazing! Chicago city dwellers don't waste a minute of it. Saturday was a prime example. The beaches were full of people soaking up the sun, playing volleyball, riding along the path on bicycles or just reading in the shade of a big tree.

Let's not forget the dog's either. Many of them snagged prime seats in baby stollers and bike trailers. The lucky one's seemed to be out playing at a small dog beach and loving every minute!

Want to veer away from the water's edge? I am amazed to find that there is always some kind of festival going on. On this particular Saturday I happened across the farmers market on Division and walked my bicycle through the variety of stands peddling fresh flowers and produce trying to decide what MUST come home with me.

Something else I love about this city is the number restaurants with outdoor seating. What a fantastic way to unwind and people watch.

One last observation. High-rise living has it's perks. This particular building has an amazingly friendly front door staff, UPS and Fed Ex drop boxes, a gym, large sun deck, a dry cleaner and a grocery store all accessible without ever leaving the building. Most anything you need can be accessed within one block. That is handy in severe weather - which I have seen first hand even shows up in the summer time!