So having a three month summer vacation is amazing, don't get me wrong, but it definitely comes with it's limitations. I have been searching for things to fill my time which I can do on a budget. This has been more challenging than one would think, as it definitely lends itself to self-pity and laziness. Consequently, each morning I wake up and create an "agenda" in my head for the day: knitting, practicing, writing, picture taking and walking are usually on the docet.
On Tuesday, I got up pretty late because I haven't been sleeping well (horrible nightmares about muggings and vampires), and I was feeling sorry for myself. I don't miss Phoenix AT ALL, however, I do miss Jenn and Caitlyn very much. Not to mention Carla lives in Detroit - needless to say I was feeling lonely. Instead of sulking, I decided to take my camera and head down to the water. It doesn't matter what kind of mood I'm in, the water can always cheer me up and put things into perspective. I grabbed my ipod, camera, backpack and a bottle of water and strolled down Fullerton.
It was a perfect day. The wind had picked up with the sailboats taking full advantage - there were no less than a dozen boats within my line of sight. The waves were big enough to encourage people to go play, while others lay just basking in the sun. I took my time and walked all the way down Lakeshore Trail to the North Avenue bridge, then crossed over Lakeshore Drive to head back through the park. On my way back, I walked through the park, practicing my photography (which needs LOTS of practice, by the way) and noticed that some of the animals were out when I walked past the zoo. To my surprise, they were ALL out - the camels, the alpacas, the zebras, the chimps and the gorillas. It was perfect, because the last time we were there right before closing and we didn't get to see anything.
Right in front of the Nature Conservatory in Lincoln Park, there is an absolutely enormous garden with a beautiful fountain in it. I've been wanting to get back over there and photograph some of the flowers, but Tuesday was the first chance I had to do that. Once I arrived in the garden, I was quite startled by the intricacies of the flower bed designs. There were quite a few flowers that were used, which I had never seen before. I felt like such a tourist, but I wandered aimlessly around the garden for about a 1/2 hour before heading back. By this time, I was a hot, sweaty mess and desperately needed a shower. I love days like this, as it makes me realize that even though things are difficult right now and I may feel alone, things will change. I know, in my heart, that I made the right decision and this is where I am supposed to be. I absolutely love this city. I will make new friends and meet people, it's just going to take time. Until then I will keep moving, keep working on my hobbies and keep a little perspective. 
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