If you would have asked me 14 months ago if I would be sad that we’re leaving Arkansas, I would have told you, “hell no!” I mean, it’s Arkansas. Even though Deliverance wasn’t about here, that’s immediately what came to my mind when I found out we were moving here. Follow that by Bill Clinton and Bangin’ In Little Rock (a HBO special I saw YEARS ago about gangs) and you can imagine how much I dreaded this move. As we pack up our things, I realized how much I am going to miss this state and more importantly the friends that I’ve made. I’ve been truly fortunate to become friends with each and everyone of my “Moms of Jonesboro”. They will always have a special place in my heart.
For the past month we’ve been on the fence as to where we wanted to move. I had a couple of different job opportunities, both interesting and exciting but completely polar opposite of one another. One would further advance my career and the other would take me back to a specialty that I love. After tons of deliberation, pro and cons lists and multiples visits to each city, we’ve finally made the decision to move where we think our family will prosper. We’ve made the decision to move to…
CHICAGO!
The great thing about moving to Chicago is we’re only 5 hours away from both our families. Far enough away that I can stay sane (sorry mom and dad but you know it’s true) but close enough that we can be there for more family events. It also gives up the opportunity to raise our daughter in a more culturally diverse environment. For me, I’m super excited about all the blogging opportunities that are more likely to come my way and the ability to meet in real life some of the awesome bloggers I’ve been chatting with online! And my job? Well, let’s just say that I already love it and I haven’t even started yet (more to come on that). I’m also hoping that I get to see more of the friends I’ve made over the years as Chicago is a much more exciting place to visit with more things to do.
Moving to Chicago does have it’s negatives. Lots of square footage and 3 car garages? Haven’t found either in my price range. I also have never lived in the “city” and public transportation? Yeah, I think I used that once. :) But life is a journey and as I pack up my 20+ serving dishes (geez, who knew I had that many), I’m excited to see how this chapter in my life goes.
Wow Sarah!!! I am sooo happy for your future, but at the same time very sad! I had hoped it was a bad dream I had that u were moving!!! But what an exciting and growing opportunity!!! Just please don’t move by a McDonalds!!!
From the first time I met u, I fell in love with u!!! U have such a big heart, so caring, so driven, so everything I wished I was!!! I admire u so much and for so many reasons!!! U also have such a sweet hearted husband and daughter!!! She stole my heart from day 1 too!!! What a little angel!!! I will miss u all soooo much, but I know this will be sooo great for all of u!!! I wish u the best in all of life’s ventures!!! 
Twitter: chascouponmom
says:
Congrats on figuring out your move! I’m sure that Chicago will be a great place to explore and get to know!
Twitter: 7onashoestring
says:
It sounds exciting! Can’t wait to hear more and good luck with everything. I wish I had the nerve to do it… maybe by next year!
Twitter: mommybknowsbest
says:
Wow! That’s a different move!! Although you’re no stranger to moving, I know you will be a pro when it comes to adapting. There are some awesome bloggers up there, I’m sure they’ll make you part of their circle! Good luck lady!!!
Thanks hon!
you will have a great time in chigago
Twitter: CinnyBBS
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You’re moving to Chicago? Good luck! At least you’ll be close to Blogher next year…haha
Twitter: evakgrant
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I’m so envious of your move to Chicago. Thats where and forever will be my heart. I used to live in downtown (Streeterville) and know you’ll do just fine. Chicago is a great city for public transportation and you’ll love the lake. Can’t wait to read about your journey and get updates. Good luck with the move!
~Eva~
Twitter: Grandma_Juice
says:
I grew up and lived in Chicago ‘burb until I was 26… I miss it everyday!! You will LOVE it!
Good luck with your move!!
I know you will be happy with your move! It’s the person’s inner strength and character that will guide through the paths of life. Chicago is a great place to live, so have the best of time there.
I’m seriously jealous right now. Arkansas to Chicago? AWESOME change!! Chicago is amazing and if I could afford to live near downtown, I totally would. It’s only second on my list to Sacramento! You’re going to love it. Plus, BlogHer 13 is going to be in Chicago!!
Yeah, a big difference! I’ll be happy to escape the swarms of mosquitoes in NE Arkansas! Funny, I have the chance to go to BlogHer and now everyone is saying how they wouldn’t do it again!