This week I've thought about Champaign Illinois quite a bit.

Alex and I lived there for about 4-5 months. We resided across the street from his restaurant, 2-3 miles from the main campus of the U of I. As hard as it was to live there (Al's long hours, my trouble of finding a full time job) I miss it. I met some incredible people - at the UU church, in the pastry kitchen at Al's restaurant, at David's Bridal where I worked part time....and of course through the community college, where I participated in theater.

The atmosphere of the town was similar to Fayetteville - intellectual and vibrant. Brick buildings, people walking dogs, little coffee shops and boutiques.

I have been fortunate enough to have traveled quite a bit in the past few years and as the year anniversary of me moving to Fayetteville nears (well...I think it's today actually) it seems like an appropriate time for me to reflect on those I have met and hope to see again.

So, one year anniversary. 25th birthday. Here's to you all, friends. Hope to see you soon.