Greetings, friends! So much has happened since I last wrote. I interviewed for a new role that seemed perfect for me, got it, and quit my job. I’ve been working full-time in the office for the past few months which has been a transition.
Working hybrid has been my norm for most of my working career, so it’s been a huge shift returning to the office. Basically, I’ve spent the last couple of months pouring into my new role from my cube and honestly? I’m tired, but a lot happier.
In retrospect, when we originally planned this trip to Chicago last year, I was barely keeping a float. Unhappy. Spending money on literally anything that could make my life a modicum better in the off hours. Vacations used to be a temporary escape from my life and my job. But by the time this trip actually arrived, life had changed. I didn't have that constant 'I need a BREAK' mindset. I looked forward to the trip simply as time off. So, we went to Chicago with a rough itinerary just a desire to see friends, see somewhere new together — and for the first time in a long time, I didn't even think about my job.
So, I packed up an Away carry-on and a duffel I’ve had since my undergrad years. I filled them with the essentials: a few cashmere sweaters, new cape coat, denim (always pack another pair), and a few pairs of shoes that felt right for a city that actually requires walking. It was a good mix since it was quite cold!
Thursday!
Took the train from Kansas City to Chicago and, much to my chagrin, a nine-hour delay cost us our entire first day of settling in. The only saving grace was the uninterrupted time to finally make a major dent in The Correspondent by Virginia Evans.
Friday!
My favorite corner of the Airbnb
Breakfast from the Goddess and the Baker. They have so many gf options!
We took a trip to the Rookery Building which is considered the oldest standing high-rise in Chicago. It was remodeled in the early 19th century by Frank Lloyd Wright.
This building is truly such a beauty and so worth seeing, even if its for just a minute to marvel! The tour is pretty inexpensive, $15 a person!
One day I will see all the FLW buildings in Chicago, but for now I was happy to see the Rookery.
Shopping was next on the itinerary! I always enjoy stopping my Uniqlo, even if it's just to browse, though I came very close to grabbing a shirt from the Manga UT Shueisha collection. I'm still thinking about it honestly even though the sleeves fit me funny.
Nevertheless, the new Michigan Ave Uniqlo is incredible — you can design your own tees and totes, and they even offer on-site embroidery now. We didn't end up printing anything this trip, just buying a tote to carry all of our train snacks around, but maybe next time we'll get it embroidered or I'll have Alyx chainstitch something!
One of the absolute highlights was reuniting with my dear friend Jessica and her husband; I haven't seen her since she got married in 2023. We spent the evening catching up at Best Intentions before heading to Weegee's Lounge, where I had one of the best NA cocktails I've ever had. I wear this Anna Sui for Target dress entirely too much, but to quote Carrie Bradshaw, “I love it, it's my thing, let it go!”
Saturday!
It was cold during our trip so I packed my new cape coat. I was on the fence about it initially because it was quite thin, but Amy from Threadline helped me out and added a removable layer so its so much warmer! The day consisted of lunch at Goddess and the Grocer. Again, I'm so thankful they have so many gf options. Followed by shopping! Records, candles, and shops we would (Lush) and wouldn't (Diptyque and Supreme) typically find in KC.
We stopped by Reckless Records where I was impressed to find the Strokes on vinyl and on CD! I didn't end up buying either, I think part of the allure of buying a Strokes CD is for it to be $5 for me, ha. We found an original '80s vinyl pressing of Thriller, which is already being put to very good use.
Coffee at the Wormhole, a classic, but splurge on the alternative milks for the Honey Bear.
We grabbed dosa at Rangoli, which was perfectly fine, but I’m always happy when dosa is involved. Then, we headed to the Music Box Theatre for Project Hail Mary in 70mm.
Sunday
SK you're an outfit repeater!
I had some of the best gf pancakes at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe (Worth the wait). Then, we headed to the The Art Institute of Chicago.
"I just let my brain rest when I paint flowers." -Renoir
Despite a few past visits to the Art Institute, I’d somehow missed the Thorne Miniature Rooms in the basement. They are these incredible, obsession-worthy period rooms built on a precise 1:12 scale.
Stepping up to these displays felt a bit childlike. Peering into each room and choosing my favorites (Obviously the pink room). Thanks to my friend, Amanda, for the recommendation! We wrapped the trip up by eating pizza and watching Clueless on VHS in our Airbnb. I forget how much I love that movie.
One last trip to Goddess and the Grocer. I'm glad I don't live in Chicago because their iced lattes would be dangerous for me.
Thankfully the train ride home was much easier than the way there. I finished The Correspondent with tears streaking down my face.
All in all, it was a beautiful trip. To be fully present with my beloved without the constant, nagging anxiety of whatever work disaster might be waiting for me on Monday? That was everything. Honestly, the most luxurious things I encountered weren't the Bottega earrings I tried, but this new headspace. As it turns out, peace of mind is the ultimate souvenir.
I always forget how much I truly love blogging until I’m back in the thick of it. I’ve made countless promises to be more consistent, but for the first time, the mental capacity to actually show up is finally surfacing. Talk, soon.
Most photos by JL <3
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