I've Got a New Attitude

Last week I returned from a 10 day trip to Chicago primarily for business. Yes, I've only been gone for four months and have been back 2 times but I think this trip really put things into perspective. I was lucky enough to have my trip paid for by my company and I was able to add a head and tail weekend to visit my friends and family.

Because I've never been in the situation where I lived away from Chicago, I never had to go back "home" to visit. I must say that it's quite stressful trying to make sure I see everyone. Then there's the added stress of shopping for things I don't get in London and eating food that I normally don't get it. Well that part is not so stressful but rather over indulgent.

What a week it was. Work was mentally draining. I caught a cold from the weather. I was jet lagged the entire time waking up at 5:00a.m. My colleague made fun of me because she said that I went away for 4 months and forgot what it was like to live in Chicago. I celebrated my birthday a few weeks early. Spent time with my favorite people in the world. Got to meet my cousin's baby for the first time. My cousin Ashley added my mom's name to her daughter's middle name. I was so touched. My aunt made this great photo album for me. All in all, it was a great trip but draining trying to do everything.

I arrived back home, with an extra suitcase more than I came with. As the taxi driver was driving down Clapham High Street, I was really glad to be coming back "home" to London. The streets were lively and bustling. The people were dressed really nice. As I stepped into my flat I felt a sense of home. I really, really like living London. I am starting to make more friends and have a more active social life.

This last trip helped me appreciate London even more. I am not homesick. By the time I left Chicago, I was ready to return back to London. I actually feel silly for buying soo many things. I also came home feeling like a fat American for eating so much.

Since I've been back (aside from getting food poisoning from some Cuban food I ate right before I left), I went to my first play in Covent Garden. I've been exploring some great restaurants in my neighborhood. I found Stanley a dog walker and he got his first groom (so cute!) I went to see some live bands play in Brick Lane last night. Today my client from Chicago was in for business. I showed him around London and in turn I learned how to navigate the city even more.

Life is definitely good in London.