So...I moved to Chicago? That's a thing that happened on Tuesday. I technically haven't really "moved in" (my lovely parents are bringing the pots and pans and all the clothes, etc. tomorrow) but I'm living in my apartment, so that's moved in, right?
My first three days have been pretty great, and very eventful! My first day consisted of a long cab ride and a nap, followed by some basic exploring of downtown Evanston. Yesterday, though, was the big day.
After grabbing breakfast at Panera, I walked to the local grocery store (Jewel-Osco). I definitely underestimated the distance. It was about a half-mile walk from my building, and walking back even with only a few groceries was a chore (especially in the humidity). After getting my groceries, I went out to lunch at the Chili's that's a block away from my building, and I unwittingly forgot my wallet back in my room. Luckily, I had the most wonderful waiter in the world, and he was willing to let me leave the restaurant, without leaving anything behind (I gladly would have left my phone, etc.) while I ran back to my apartment and grabbed my wallet. This is just one, of the many, amazing instances of hospitality that I've felt since being in Chicago. It's just been so wonderful.
After that adventure, I had my big "in the city adventure" of going to meet my student teaching mentor at JCP on the South Loop. It was such an amazing experience, and I now have three textbooks as reading material for the next few days. I got to read the names of my future students (SO MANY) and talk about personal philosophy, teaching styles, methodology, and so many other things with my wonderful mentor.
Three hours later, I was taking the Blue Line to meet my best friend Meg at U of I who I haven't seen since graduation weekend. It was such a blessed evening. We shared a meal in Little Italy, and talked for hours until I had to return to the north side of the city before it got too late. All in all, I managed to walk nine and a half miles (WHOA).
Today was a much more relaxed day. The cleaning staff came in to my room to clean the (very small) common areas (which was lovely) and I practiced my Spanish with the loveliest lady. I understood almost everything she said, but my answers were hilarious to her. I went to campus and walked around, got my WildCARD (student ID), and just hung around. It's been a pretty relaxed day.
Tomorrow will be another long day, as I'm going to go and meet my mentor for part of the day, and then will be unloading all my things when my parents arrive. I cannot believe that grown up life is starting. On Tuesday, I'll be introducing myself as Ms. Casillas for the first time (sorry, Andrew, "Supreme Ruler Carmen, Baroness of Books and Wielder of the Chalk of Knowledge, long may she reign" is much too long).
I hope to post about my student teaching and graduate school adventures throughout the rest of the year, but don't be surprised if there are no more posts for a long while :) Pictures will also be coming (I hope!).
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