God bless America

Peppermint patties, everything bagels, and cheddar cheese, oh my! I should've hidden in the closet when it was time to go to the airport... It was such an amazing weekend! If anything, my time in Mexico has truly made me appreciate the little things that we take for granted in the U.S. The food is just the tip of the iceberg... Add to that the incredible sights, clean streets, beautiful waterways, endless fashion opportunities, and native English speakers, and you've pretty much got it made.

Despite all of this, I am looking forward to an authentic taco meal, seeing my kitty, and gossiping with mis chicas...

Beautiful Views

I got my fair share of buena vistas during this trip. The view from Liz and Brian's Lincoln Park apartment is great and unobstructed.

Even though getting up in the morning to board a plane back to Mexico was somewhat painful, I was welcomed back with this beautiful view of a full moon over Mexico City...

That was Robin Williams!

While roaming around the streets of Chicago I pass a familiar face... you know one of those, how do I know that person people. And lo and behold, it was Robin Williams! He is quite short in the flesh.

Chicago Architecture

Oh the glory of high rises! Especially coming from Mexcio where the tallest building seems to be about the size of my old apartment in NYC, being surrounded by skyscrapers was a comforting reminder of being home. We went on the architecture tour via the Chicago River. Really cool perspective of the city.

Palmer House

Another highlight of my Chicago visit was the fact that we dined in style in the Palmer House Hotel's penthouse! It was incredible. The decor was so chic and classy and the food was amazing as well. Liz and Brian really got the royal treatment... talk about reaping in the benefits!!! heehee.

The lobby

Penthouse baño

My favorite... the powder room!

So old Hollywood

Chicago Cubs

Went to a Cubs game at Wrigley field while in Chicago for Liz & Brian's wedding celebration. An all-American activity for the fam. It was a little cold and the head was still somewhat pounding from the night before, but all in all so much fun!! The best part was watching Dad attempt to eat a traditional Cubs Dog... not an easy undertaking. Take a look: the works include cheese sauce, onions, relish, pickles, mustard, ketchup and sauerkraut! Ew! His face after this endeavor was completely worth the trek from Mexico (among other things of course)! And to top it off, the Cubs won!

Grass is greener on the other side of the border

Running in Alexandria has been amazing the past week and a half. Even with the protests of my shin splints I can't get enough. I have been craving a good run since moving to Pachuca where 90% of the landscape is brown dust. The grass is definitely greener on the other side. I ran a few times while in Pachuca but there are several reasons why it is more of a challenge~ both physically and mentally~ than in the U.S. The first is that the landscape looks like this.
Not ideal for a runner. The second is that people in Pachuca are not into the whole running thing... and that's putting it nicely. Stares are common and honks and yells are rather frequent as well. Just prepare to tune out and run. It actually becomes a driving force for faster running after a while. Another challenge to running in Pachuca is potholes. There are literally at least 10 on every street you go down. Twisted ankles threaten your every step. So you must be aware and take caution. I managed to map out a minimal pothole route after a few trial runs. Still, you can imagine my delight at running in Old Town Alexandria, a lush landscape of running and biking trails, fitness freaks, and smooth roads. aaaaaaah.