A year has passed since I moved to this shiny city called Chicago. Looking back, I finally managed to transition from being an outsider to being a local. The cosmopolitan life was welcoming. Although my international travels took a back seat last year, I was able to spend quality time getting to know my new city. My frequent flights to Connecticut also played an important part last year as I visited my family every two months or so.
I made new memories, met new friends, learned new things. But along with the good, came the bad. I lost my grandmother and my father in only a span of seven months. My father’s battle with cancer finally ended last August. I don’t speak about it much and I still don’t. Maybe one day I will be able to share and open up about it but as of now, this is the only thing I can share.
I am thankful for everybody whose been with me on this journey. For my family and friends, and the people I’ve met along the way.
The end of the beginning is here. Let’s keep moving forward and traveling well!
Jen is a Chicago-based traveler and creative. She is a full-time development & communications executive specializing in non-profit organizations. Originally from the East Coast, she created The Jetsetter as a place to share her travel stories and photos with friends and family. Now, it is a place for adventurers and dreamers. Its purpose is to inspire and encourage busy professionals to see the world and achieve a better work-life balance.
Follow up dreams Jen!!