This year is a one of milestones. Six years at my job, five years blogging and one that means a lot today too…SEVEN years in Chicago.

Yes, seven years ago today, I was wide eyed and brand new to Chicago…and totally in over my head.

Growing up in southeastern Wisconsin, moving to Chicago was like throwing myself in the deep end of the pool when I don’t know how to swim.

The first six months in Chicago were very rough and resulted in a lot of tears, but I stuck it out and now, I’m so glad I did.

I love Chicago.

Sure, sometimes I cannot wait to get out of the city for a few days, or dream about moving elsewhere, but in the end, Chicago is home.

And I’m always glad to come home.

I don’t know what life would be like if I had not moved here, and I don’t really think about it because I’m happy right where I’m at. And if/when it’s time to go, I will never regret living here.

I love you Chicago, stay classy :)

I love New Years Eve in Chicago.

LOVE IT.

Even when there is sub zero wind chill (it’s like it gets colder just for that night).

But New Years Eve also sucks in Chicago, primarily because there are ZERO CABS in the city. No kidding, I have stood in the cold for an hour waiting for a cab. I even shared a cab (out of desperation) with a couple beginning to have sex in the backseat (I was sitting shotgun). Yes, that last ride was awkward. I also heard things I wish I could unhear.

After celebrating New Years in Chicago for almost seven years, I learn something new each time. Hopefully, it makes me wiser for the next year (especially learning what I would do differently.)

So here is what I learned this year:

• Good cab luck DOES exist and it’s a sign that your year is going to be amazing. After years of torturous cab waits, I had good cab luck all of NYE, even on my way home, which NEVER happens. I never had to wait more than 5 minutes each time. I wish I could express the joy this brings me
• Even though regular vodka is tasteless, a mixed drink that is 90% vodka 10% lemonade is tough to swallow
• Pouring champagne without spilling is a skill I possess
• Dressing casual fancy makes for a much more enjoyable night. I usually stick with leggings, boots and some sort of sequin arrangement. It is still January in Chicago after all. Oh and sometimes, throwing in a hat just for effect rocks too

Here was this year’s NYE outfit:

Not a great picture, but it looked much better in person. And not to be crude, but my boobs were OOC. I wish I would have worn something more low-cut, even though it was girls night.

How was your New Years?

The last time I thought I was legitimately going to die was in college when I went downhill skiing for the first (and last) time. I had never been but was in love with a guy who did ski and thought it would bring us closer together to go with him. Clearly, this did not work out, but I vividly remember going down the slopes thinking, “holy f*cking hell I’m going to die. DIIIIIIIIEEEEEEEE.”

Fortunately, I didn’t, but I was glad I could say I tried it, because it sure as f*ck wasn’t happening again.

This weekend, I had a similar experience, this time, involving a trapeze.

Yes, a trapeze. After watching a lesson and seeing a Groupon for one, I decided to face my fear of heights and control issues head on (and 27 feet up).

How did it go? Um…fine. But I think the only thing I do worse than trapeze, is ice skate. And I’m really, really awful at that.

Whenever I face my fears, I have one of two reactions: no fear (hot air balloon) or a crippling fear that leads to tears (trapeze.)

Yes, the first two swings, I nearly hyperventilated in to an anxiety attack and then cried the minute I landed safely on the ground. I’m so glad friends were not there to watch (sorry Nic.)

While I was humiliated by the way my body reacted to these fears, all was not lost. I did a total of six swings and while the fear never totally went away, I could get myself up to the platform and jump off when it was time. I count that as a victory.

And I woke up this morning bruised and hurting in places I didn’t know could hurt. The level of agony I feel is awful! But the experience was worth it and I’m glad to say I tried it.

I don’t think I’ll do another lesson, but it reminded me what real fear feels like :)

Oh and a side note to Brian the “catcher” during my lesson. I’ll see you in my dreams handsome.

How was your weekend?