I Will Miss...

Since my moving day is approaching quickly, I've realized that there are many things I will miss once I move to Chicago. This is my tribute to those things.

• Girls' nights - I've always wanted to have a close group of girlfriends who I spend time with weekly, and these nights are exactly what I was looking for. Great conversations, big laughs, true friends and wonderful memories of Thursday nights. Save a cinnamon roll for me, ladies. (Rachel, don't think I won't miss you despite your absence in the photo below.) =)

• Loose Park - Hands down the most beautiful park in Kansas City. I had never been until I moved a block east of the park, and now I'm spoiled having lived next to such a charming environment. Walking on the trail, watching wedding ceremonies, smelling the roses, feeding the ducks/geese (who didn't care for my Saltines), enjoying the variety of dogs that come out to play, sunning by the small water park and of course, Chris and I being the only adults playing in the water park with all the little kids.

• Long walks through Mission Hills and Brookside - Chris and I would walk for hours on end through the nearby neighborhoods. I've had some of the best conversations on these walks: discussions of dream homes, favorite dogs, plans for the future and life in Chicago. I'll always remember these significant talks and walks with you, Chris, and I know we have many more miles waiting to be walked in Chi-town.

• Family - Of course I will miss Mom, Dad and Nate. I've grown closer to my parents since moving to KC, so I'll soon realize I can't just drive over for Mom's home-cooked meal, Dad's entertaining jokes and auto advice or a little R&R in my childhood home. Natey, my big bro, will be set to a visiting regimen - he has no choice. I suppose I should let him in on this decision. All family now has a reason to make frequent trips to Chicago - I expect it.

• Senora - I love my random visits with my ex-high school Spanish teacher. She always has an open ear and shoulder to lean on when I need it, guaranteed entertainment especially when Mike is there, great advice and always makes me feel like her segunda hija. Again, visits expected.

• Lawrence - The best college town that was always just a short drive away. Some of my favorites about this place are Mass Street, Milton's breakfast, Juice Stop, Free State Brewery, the bike trail along the river, visits to Clinton Lake and of course, the KU campus and all its glory.

Enough sentimental stuff though, I'm going to Chicago because it's the greatest city in America!