It seems like there are flowers blooming everywhere on my campus right now, and each bunch that I pass is more beautiful than the next.
Sorry for disappearing for days on end. I’ve been having a harder time adjusting to America, and it seems like I’ve been sick endlessly. Apparently my body doesn’t approve of my return to fresh air, dairy products, and cooking sans MSG. Jet lag is still making me feel exhausted all the time and has sucked any and all inspiration out of me.
I’ve been gone for a few days at a retreat at my school’s ecology campus. I always love some time in nature, away from phone service and internet access. There’s nothing better than time away from the world to help you clear your head.
Last night, we had a bonfire outside. I roasted marshmallows, had my first s’more of the summer, looked at all the stars that exist away from city lights, and stayed up entirely too late talking with both new and old friends. It was lovely.
When summer comes to Chicago, there are no problems except where to be happiest.(via cassieirwin)
(Source: lattesandbriefs, via relovingit)
The wait is over, and I’m finally back with Jim to stay.
The last time we were together, we were eating duck in Beijing. Now we’re going on a normal, everyday date to our favorite tapas bar in good ol’ Chicago. I’m still not used to regular life, but things like this make that transition easier.
On Lakeshore Drive, which means I’m officially back in my Chicago to stay!
Fresh raspberries are always one of my favorite parts of summer.
I love being back in the woods on my favorite Minnesotan running trail.
Since I value my lungs, I obviously couldn’t run outside while I was in polluted Beijing. Today was a big day because I went for my first outside run in more than 6 months! The transition from treadmill to outdoors can be a little rough, so I’m sure I’ll be sore tomorrow but I’m still pleased to have the first outdoor day done. Hopefully within a few weeks I’ll be back to normal.
And don’t worry, I took this picture on my cooldown, not while I was actually running!
Happiness List.
Things that made today wonderful:
1. Driving on familiar roads with the windows down and a breeze in my hair.
2. Getting highlights and finally back to being blonde!
3. Catching up with old friends.
4. A fancy new iPhone - my whole family has now entered the modern age!
5. A good book, and more time to read.
In the process of getting all my stuff ready to move into my new Chicago apartment, I’ve been finding some pretty cool treasures in my old room. My favorite surprise discovery was finding the giant jar of European Nutella my past self had stashed away for me back in January. For those of you haven’t tasted it for yourself, European Nutella tastes a million times better than American Nutella, so this was truly a find worth celebrating.
I’m finally back in America!
Sorry for going missing for so long, it was chaos packing to leave China, traveling, and getting somewhat adjusted to American life. It’s strange to be back in a land where everyone speaks English, but little comforts like my dad’s chocolate chip cookies have definitely helped!
Done.
The last paper was the most brutal, but it’s all finally done! Officially turned in, and now I have just enough time for a nap before our closing reception. So so glad to be done!
Summer can now officially commence!
3 days. I can’t believe I’ll be back in Chicago so soon, I’m too overwhelmed to even process that! One last brutal paper is standing in the way of my summer freedom, but in 15 hours, that’ll all be over. Must.keep.going.
Happiness List.
Things that are making me terribly happy today, even during finals:
1. A delicious strawberry milkshake on a hot afternoon.
2. International phone calls from my favorite boy.
3. A new job & challenge to look forward to for next year.
4. The discovery that the strange box in my room is actually an air conditioner.
5. Friends who stay up late drinking tea and writing papers with me.
