Today marks the official 1 month mark of relocating to Florida!
Although I’m enjoying my new life and going through the culture shock of living in this tropical paradise, there are a few things I do miss about Chicago. Here they are in order of importance:
- My friends: Living somewhere for 9 years comes with an amazing friend network who you can call up for impromptu happy hour, lunch and beach time. I miss my friends so much. I miss being able to call/text them for random fun. But, they have all been in touch with me, regularly, to make sure I’m okay. I MISS AND LOVE YOU! You know who you are.
My church: Out of all the things I was dreading the most when it came to this move, finding a new church was top of the list. New Life Covenant totally changed my life in so many ways (separate blog post) so looking for a church home that complements that one is going to be tough. I grew at that church, stretched and totally learned how to have a stronger walk in my faith. I believe all of that was to prepare me for whatever I’m here in Florida to do, see and experience. That’s why I know my new church home is a big part of that story.- Afternoon walks: My afternoon walks downtown with my co-worker guaranteed a nice boost in numbers for my FitBit. Although FIU’s campus is huge, this beating sun is hard to hide from. In Chicago, the buildings kept me from getting burnt! I know I’ll appreciate it in January when Chicago is -14 degrees and Florida is 74 degrees.
Morning runs along the Lake: Living in Hyde Park, I was able to get up early and run along the lakefront. But, the ocean has a much better smell so this one will likely be obsolete in a few months.- My gym, FFC: Man, I loved my group fitness classes. I didn’t have any gym buddies but i just enjoyed sweating and competing with the other people in the class. I do have a gym in my apartment complex, but being in there working out with stanky men just isn’t the same thing!
My list isn’t long because I really do like it here. Professionally, I’m already working on some exciting and new initiatives that are pushing me. I’m loving it!
Personally, I’m looking forward to making more friends. My group of 3 friends has been awesome so far, but maybe in this next chapter, I'll have a smaller circle. And the weather/climate has been great. My allergies are finally adjusting and my hair hasn’t rebelled too much!
