cities i've lived in and why i loved them

I have been gifted with a life that has allowed me the ability to not only travel but to live and experience many different parts of the country. As I am now rooted in sweet home Chicago, I have had time to reflect on each stop along the way. So today I share my top 3 favorite parts of my time living in each city. Lets take a ride!

Stop #1. Crystal Lake, Illinois (1991-2009)

I wasn't going to include this one since it was not really by choice that I grew up in Crystal Lake, Illinois. But for all my fellow (815) friends...here's my top 3.

1 - The CL is simple. But still has everything you need.

2 - Athletics- I am grateful to have grown up in a place that had high level opportunities. Playing with/ against many D1 athletes made it very competitive and fun.

3- its just HOME. - the life long friendships and memories is what made Crystal Lake an incredible place to grow up/raise a family.

Stop #2. Toledo, Ohio (2009-2013)

No one enjoys living in Ohio right? Wrong.

1. GO ROCKETS - I'm obviously bias but UT makes the city. Strong in the MAC with great athletics and a beautiful campus. Its truly a hidden gem.

2. College Town - Some of my favorite memories in Toledo were spent in the night life or at sporting events on campus.

3. Location- One reason I loved Toledo so much was because of how close it was to a lot. We would travel to Ann Arbor, Detroit, Columbus, Cleveland, Athens, and more to really experience all Michigan and Ohio has to offer.

Stop #3. Indianapolis, Indiana (2013-2014)

While my time was short in Indy, I still experienced quite a bit!

1. Pro Sports: At the time I was working for the Indianapolis Indians, which is a AAA baseball team. The stadium is one of the best out there and truly a great organization to work for. Not to mention having access to the Colts and Pacers.

2. Downtown/Broad Ripple: I'm not even a huge night scene person but I loved exploring downtown Indy and Broad Ripple for the endless fun bars and restaurants.

3. Indy 500: Need I say anymore? Really glad I experienced this!

Stop #4 Charleston, South Carolina (2014-2016)

Definitely one of my top places to live if not that place/people I miss the most. Such an incredible city that holds a special place in my heart.

1. The Scenery: Who doesn't love the beach, rainbow houses, a quaint downtown and endless sunsets. Charleston is one of the most visited cities for a reason.

2. Food/Drinks/People: Chuck-town is known for its delicious food and drinks and it does live up to the hype. I lived with one of my best friends who works in the food/bev industry & we for sure experienced fine southern dining and good company!

3. History: I wish I had learned more about the city during my time. But it is also something I LOVE the most about still visiting Charleston today. It is rich in history.

Stop #5. Charlotte, North Carolina (2016-2018)

I can remember the first time I visited Charlotte, I loved the size and feel of the city and told myself I would live there. A year later that came true!

1. Small City Life: I absolutely loved that it was more urban but also not this huge major city. CLT is comfortable, clean, elegant but still a growing city.

2. Weather: In my opinion one of the best places to live in the US for weather. I loved having 4 seasons but they were still warmer and manageable!

3. Active Lifestyle: Beautiful parks, Lakes, White-water rafting, Hiking trails, mountain ranges and Carolina beaches ...Charlotte was a good middle ground for having access to a outdoor fun lifestyle.

Stop #6. Chicago, Illinois (2018 - 2020)

Home is where the heart is!

1. Family/Friends: No matter where you go in life the thing that brings you peace and joy are those who matter the most to you. Having majority of my family and close friends back in the Midwest is a huge reason I love and came back to Chicago!

2. Major City: ENDLESS opportunity. There is something really unique about living in a place that you can always find something new to do or visit.

3. Job/Sports: Given that majority of my life and career revolves around athletics, I have really loved living in a city that does as well. Go Ramblers!

Wow...looking back I am extremely grateful and blessed to have lived and traveled that way I have.. I would recommend living in any of these cities each for their own reasons. So if you're thinking of making a move to any of these places done hesitate to reach out for more!

Until next time, stay safe and well friends!

-Sondra