My relationship with Chicago is an interesting one – I often joke with friends about how my original plan was to move out to sunny Southern California and I’m still not quite sure how I ended up in an opposite climate. The winter months really get you down; the wind, the snow, the cold, the gloom – it really all wears on you after several months, but then something amazing happens.

The sun comes out. The temperatures rise and you’re finally able to shed your coat. The city returns to the lakefront. Chicago truly comes alive once again and you can see it everywhere you look – there’s a little pep in people’s step and the beauty of the architecture, river and lake returns. I’m falling in love all over again with this city.

This is why we all live here. This is why Chicago is worth it.