Figuring Out My Chicago Story So Far (and the Chapter Ahead)

This week, I’m catching up on all the things I missed — from quick thoughts on the Love Island USA reunion to a few first impressions of Love is Blind UK — plus a recap of my (slightly underwhelming but still lovely) work trip to Minnesota. But the heart of this episode is my five-year anniversary of living in Chicago. What started as a leap away from my small-town comfort zone has turned into a half-decade of growth, friendship, career shifts, love, and healing. I reflect on the highs and lows — from a job ending badly but leading me toward the right path, to finding “my person,” becoming a dog mom, and learning what it really means to create a life in a new city. As I look back, I also look forward: reminding myself of why I moved here in the first place and the experiences I still want to chase next.