Once upon a time I made a vow to myself that I would never live anywhere other than the great city of Chicago. I LOVED Chicago! I planned to live in the city forever, raise my kids there, and never, ever leave. Well, “never say never” because life has a funny way of making us eat our words.
What was it about the suburbs that had me leaving the city kicking and screaming? What was it about what the city symbolized in regard to my identity vs what the suburbs symbolized for my future? I had certain assumptions about what life would look like and how that would reflect on my identity, and it was a challenge at first to embrace my new surroundings. The identity crisis was real! But I was in good company – even Carrie Bradshaw struggled with just getting a new area code when she lost her phone even though she still lived in New York City!
Listen to Apple Podcast here: Apple Podcast Link
We all seem to think that we are letting go of something and that the city is a part of us. And maybe it is, but it’s not who we really are. That doesn’t change. And even though it took me some time to adjust I’m happy to report that I’m thriving. Yes, even in the suburbs! And because I don’t want you to wait as long as I did to embrace your surroundings, I’ve included three pieces of advice on enjoying where you live.
“Home is a place you grow up wanting to leave and grow old wanting to get back to.” -John Ed Pierce
Mom Card Drawing of the Week: “Attitude is everything.” -Diane von Furstenberg
These are a few of my Favorite Things: Demdaco Ceramic Succulent Oil Diffuser (can be found on Amazon)
Find Melissa on Instagram @melissa_giller, along with her new podcast, Life with Soul. And check out the episode we did together on The Honest Mom Podcast.
Local to the Tri-Cities area of Chicago? Always at a loss of what to do as a mom, family, a couple, or even if you’re single? Check out @stayandplay.tricities on Instagram or their website, www.stayandplaylocal.com. You can also check out Ep 13 with the founder, Chrissy Somers, as we dish about the dangers as well as all the ways social media can amp up your motherhood.
Other Sources for You:
Find Michelle on Instagram at @thehonestmompodcast or stay up to date on NEW episodes by signing up for her weekly email at www.michellemansfieldauthor.com.
Thank you for listening, sharing, leaving an honest review, along with taking the time to do all those things. XO – Michelle
