We started off our trip in Chicago and it was my first trip to the city aside from stops at O'Hare. Traffic was definitely stressful and chaotic, that's for sure. I had my first train commute (thanks again to Jordan for showing me around!) and spent 2.5 days at the Merchandise Mart for the design trade show. Eric & I were also able to get away to see the Field Museum, Navy Pier, and take the architectural boat tour.
The Field Museum
Lake Michigan
Navy Pier
Stained glass exhibit @ Navy Pier
View from the ferris wheel
Architectural boat tour. Trump Tower on the right.
The Merchandise Mart
Lunch on Tuesday by the waterfront
We had one relaxing day after Chicago at the beach in Michigan, and then I talked Eric into hopping back in the car to make the 2.5 hour drive up to Interlochen (we were SO close, I just had to!). It was really great and sentimental to be back there, and even more special to relive some of our memories together. I just think it's so cool that we were there the same summer before we met. Who knows, maybe one day we'll find a picture from 2004 that we both happened to be in...that would be crazy.
Lake Michigan in Michigan
Kresge Auditorium @ Interlochen
Kresge
The Bowl
High School Girls waterfront
2004 cabin (we just so happened to find this one unlocked!)
Proof that I was there! ;)
2004 cabin
2003 cabin
High School Girls practice huts
Corson Auditorium bear
Eric's home, summer 2006
One of Eric's 3 cabins
Someone was pooped out on the way back!
Visiting Aunt Rochelle's school
Isn't Aunt Rochelle's backyard AMAZING???!
And for some exciting/scary/challenging/but overall good news (sorry, but no babies yet!), with a lot of support so far, I'm starting up my own design business. It wasn't something I was exactly planning on, but after being let go from my job last month we've decided it's the best solution for our situation right now. Unfortunately, there just aren't many other job options for design Columbia that I would be truly happy with, so this allows me to do what I really want to do {assuming I can bring in some actual clients ;) }, and it allows Eric to continue to grow and move up in his position with the University. I'm a little scared because I feel like I should have a little more experience, but at the same time I'm confident I can make it work. We set up the LLC the other night, and I'm working on finalizing business plans. Stay tuned for more info!
