First days in Chicago

Hello everyone!

So far, I love Chicago! Which has a lot to do with how much it reminds me of Winnipeg, but let me back up a few steps before I say too much about that.

I left Winnipeg on Saturday morning (September 6th). Walking out of the house was one of the hardest things about leaving -- I could hardly tear myself away. I actually had to walk from room to room saying goodbye to the physical space. Is that strange? I'd been goodbyeing for just over two weeks already, starting with co-workers and then various friends and family members. The most tears were reserved for the last 24 hours, though.

On the Friday night before I left, I had to say goodbye to Johanna (8) and Sophia (5), who basically own my heart. I thought that would be the worst of it, but the real tears started when I said goodbye to their parents, Marcus and Jenn.

The next morning, I had to say goodbye to my mom, my brother, and my boyfriend, Jon. More tears -- many more! But it was wonderful to know that I have so many people in my life worth missing while I am away. And when I finally

 drove off in the car with Scott Bergen and his parents, I was glad not to be one of the people standing at the curb watching the car drive away. That's even worse.

What followed was a two-day trip through a few states, stopping for meals and to stretch our legs, on our way to Chicago. The scenery was lovely and I quite enjoyed the trip itself. I just refused to think about our destination and what would happen once we got there.

Until we actually drove into Chicago.

I was really excited to realize that we are in a beautiful city!!! Parts of it are ugly by

 conventional standards, I grant you, but much of it is very pretty. There are lovely trees. The downtown skyline is unbelievable. The actual buildings in the downtown are gorgeous -- like the best parts of Winnipeg's Exchange District, but on a much grander scale! The buildings are far larger and more numerous and are in better repair. One of these buildings is the main library, which is eight storeys high and full of marble and high ceilings and beautiful wood panelling and artwork and security guards... Oh, and books, too.

There is far more that I want to say about this place, and about Faith House and the 15 other young people who presently live there with me. That will have to wait for now. Suffice it to say that I am having an amazing experience thus far and look forward to keeping you all posted!

Love,
Thea