Chicago...

One of my favorite cities for so many reasons is Chicago. The culture, the variety of restaurants, the energy, the hustle and bustle, the locals' accents, the shopping, Wrigleyville, and the change in seasons are just a few reasons why I love this city. Each visit, I can not get enough of not only the city and everything it has to offer, but the suburbs are great too (particularly Lake County). It's one of my top places to visit and it is easy to get in and out of having two airports (well, if the weather isn't bad). So needless to say, to kick of 2008 there was no hesitation from me when plans were being made to celebrate the New Years in one of the greatest cities in the US (in my opinion).

The Chicago Skyline...on one freezing cold afternoon.

The New Years Eve crew outside of Wrigley Field.

The legendary Wiener's Circle.

Fall in the Smokeys

It was finally time to explore other parts of Tennessee. A trip to Gatlinburg, TN is a great way to spend a fall weekend. The Smokey Mountains were amazing and hope to do some hiking on my next trip.


The Great Smokey Mountains in October.


Stepping foot on the Appalachian Trail.

Birthday fun...

A reason to get together, a reason to see friends and family, a reason to have a good time...

Youngstown...so familiar almost more familiar than when I lived there…strange, I know. It was a weekend to celebrate the September birthdays (Sherry, Toner, and Gina). Starting at the YSU football game, moving to the infamous basement, and then to downtown... Always a great time getting together with the family and old friends…I miss them all dearly!

The Birthday Crew

Fun times!