runnin' down a dream.

@danielleruns and two-o-nine:
The dancing lady and Vonnegut send their regards.

I had dinner and a Summit Unchained IPA (shh it probably isn’t gluten free…but SUMMIT!) with three people I’ve barely seen since high school and it wasn’t weird.

Actually, we sat there for two hours and would probably still be there if I hadn’t ended the party to come meet my crazy awesome Greek hostel roommate to celebrate her last night in the States. Upon meeting she asked if I was Australian and I’ve been swooning ever since.

This little trip by my onesie has been fun—I’ve met up with a few friends, done a little ‘splorin, and met lots of interesting people. I always have a blast in Chicago, and every time I make it up here I want to come back.

Doesn’t everyone accessorize with running shoes?

Lake Michigan, bright things, and an impromptu picnic.

Today calls for a cupcake for many reasons. Unfortunately, Magnolia only offers gf cupcakes on weekends, so after years of wanting to try this place I’m stuck with flourless chocolate cake. Get your shit together, Chicago.

EDIT: in the time it took for me to demolish this, three other people have come in hoping to buy gf cupcakes.

Yopro? Business formal??? (What does that even mean??)

Hair will go into a low bun once I find a ponytail holder that isn’t pink.

Chicago, I love you.

Met Laura and Rebecca for a delicious dinner and yes, we did partake in part of those kegs. The Internet never fails to entertain, calm, and guide me to the nearest train stop. The conversation’s okay too. Sometimes. I guess. So many awkward silences…oh wait. Nope, not even one of those. :)

Now I’m on my way to sleep in a hostel for the first time ever and preparing for a full day of yoproing tomorrow. If you get a chance, send some good vibes my way, please.

Running a mere half hour after dinner was a terrible choice, but that’s how I fit it in today. I somehow managed to run my second fastest yet and not throw up. I think I impressed my brother’s friend with my spitting skillz, though. Such a lady.

Today I held an infant and felt mildly uncomfortable/concerned that I would drop him. My cousin who was like a little sister growing up has two kids now and much more in common with my mom than with me. They talked about breastfeeding. I had nothing to contribute to that conversation. It’s weird to suddenly realize that you have next to nothing to talk about with someone you were once close to.
/ramble

It was a beautiful day for lunch at the river. Grandma only reminded me that I need to come visit more four times—I think that’s a record.

I was reminded yet again that my brother is always going to look to me to get gifts for our parents. He’s happy to hand over cash, he just doesn’t want to do the work. Joint gifts 4eva.

And yes, to all of you who commented last night, I did later realize the irony of posting a picture of baby birds next to a picture of my dinner. No, I did not eat the baby birds, I was just surprised to find them on the ground. :)

Finally, congratulations to shrinkingmomma for running her first marathon! I don’t know how she does it all…actually, I don’t know how any of you moms out there are able to do such a great job of balancing it all—I can barely take care of myself some days :)