the windy city

i just got back from chicago and i have lots to say.

first of all, i have accepted a job with teach for america, an organization that places college graduates in lower income, inner-city schools to help reduce the education gap across america. i have been assigned to teach pre-k (3-5-year-olds) in chicago starting in june. though i thought editing was my calling in life, i am really excited about this opportunity.
and the fact that i have a job in this wretched economy!

i've been in chi-town interviewing with different schools and principals, as well as meeting with teach for america and figuring this whole thing out. i wore my first suit ever and was sick to my stomach like never before when i was interviewing. i got to go observe a pre-k classroom and play with the kids. my heart melted right there...i wanted to take one home with me! these kids come from all walks of life -- some are homeless, some have parents in jail, some have never seen a book in their life, everything you can think of. they are thirsty for love and attention and are so sweet and innocent. when i left, they all gave me hugs and waved goodbye to "ms. jessica." anyway, i am excited for the challenge and hopefully can make an impact by getting these kids reading and kindergarten ready.

the tfa office is right across from the sears tower. so tall!

hello you. i was saving a birthday giftcard for just the right occasion. and it was the right occasion.

i forgot how cute the little houses are. i stayed just north of downtown in a quaint little neighborhood.

please keep in mind that i was freezing cold and tired, but i wanted to capture the river. every st. patrick's day, chicago dyes the river bright green. it was still a little green on my trip.

one of my favorite buildings

my last day was dedicated to house hunting. we'll be living in this area, overlooking millennium park, steps from the lake and the theater (i'm enticing you to come visit us)

possible future homes

i thought it would be easy to lug my bags around all day with me.
this is what i felt like by 2:00.

it was a great trip and got me completely excited to live here. the city is so fun! i just felt happy the whole time i was there, wandering by myself through the city and remembering our great memories from last summer. although, i forgot the cardinal chicago rule: 99% of the time, doing your hair is pointless. it's usually ruined by the wind the second you step out the door. at the least the city is living up to its name.