A Simple Hello From Sweet Home Chicago

Just a little update to let you know we're still here.  We're back in sweet home Chicago now which basically means a whirlwind of BBQ's, dinners, lunches and play dates with friends and loved ones.  It's been a breath of fresh air (literally, it's about 20 degrees cooler here thank God!) and, unlike some folks who sever ties to the mainland, we always love coming home for visits.  While the pace definitely gets 'kicked up a notch' with all the dates and appointments, it is completely worth it because - truth be told - we have some pretty awesome friends in this neck of the woods.  They're the kinds of friends who are timeless and constant.  No matter how many months or years have passed since we last saw each other, picking up right where we left off is easy, natural, and laughter abounds.  Sometimes when we're home, it feels as if we never even left.  Sure, we might have the best tans of the bunch, but coming back feels totally effortless.  There might be new babies, new addresses and new jobs; but, say what you will about social networking, it is almost entirely thanks to Facebook that we never feel completely out of the loop and for that, I am thankful.  Coming home is fun, refreshing and a wonderful break from the life aquatic.  We recharge our batteries, catch up with loved ones and enjoy the little things like laundry machines, unlimited water, hot showers, space to sprawl, giant refrigerators and the magnificence that is the American grocery store.

Update on recent giveaway:  It was a very hard decision, but I selected "Stella and Snugs" to win the Distant Shores cruising DVD's.  Not only did they lose their home in hurricane Sandy, but they are a real-life Partridge family that is taking their act to the water via sailboat!  It was a very tough decision and I honestly wish I could give a little something to ALL of you who entered, but I could only select one.  Thank you all for playing - and reading - along.