New Things Are Coming

Now, I don't mean to gloat....however, I have finally purchased a new camera! After a few years with a Nikon 70D, and using my Samsung Note 3 the past year for taking pictures, it was time to get a camera that could take IWTH to a new level (and of course, it's such a fun toy!). I didn't get a point and shoot, only because I am convinced that those cameras are nowhere near as efficient and cool as the SLRs. Plus, I really want to expand my lens collection, film some videos (new projects!), and try new techniques on photography. I might even consider buying the VSCO Film (please tell me if you have used it and think is worth the price!), but I'm not too sure yet. Below are some of the test shots I took with the camera.

What do you think? Since I am super excited about this camera, I'll be posting a several new things, even if it means doing most of the writing during the weekend, since it becomes a bit difficult at times during the week because of work. Get ready for lots in IWTH!

A Stroll Around Chicago

Whenever family or friends visit, you are kind of required to show them around a city they have never visited - and do all of the touristy things you are expected to do. This is what we did all of Tuesday of last week (I know, it's a bit late). Walked Chicago for hours and ended walking around 14 miles!! Crazy, I know. But it was a wonderful time.

The City I Live In

Feelings of sleepy nights and head up in the clouds. Chicago at night is both cold and dreamy, and the lights from the buildings give one a feeling of solidarity - of not being alone in its vastness. I found myself in this city, somewhere between the shores of Lake Michigan and Water Tower. The city might be going through its own period of reconstruction, and of figuring itself out. And certainly violence and fear can be found in its dark corners. But there are few of those unlit places, and with an open mind and a sense of adventure, anyone can find a bit of themselves in this city.

A Walk About Town

Hiking At Moraine Hills

So I did it! I actually managed to get away for a bit this weekend. And I'm sitting here, with a foot cut from the dirt and rubbing in my shoe, and a farmers tan I'm actually quite satisfied with. Leaving the suburbs to go to back to nature is as necessary as leaving the suburbs and going to the city. Sometimes, we all just need a change of pace--a change in scenery. I didn't get to see any animals, or birds for that matter. Next time, I'll try find a place that's far more "raw" than the one we went to today.

Following the River

I came across this park by the Streeterville "neighborhood"--if that's what you call them, I'm not actually sure. Anyway, I actually love fountains; I think they bring such a nice break to concrete scenery. Which is why I tend to dislike this modern designs. For me, the design seems a bit cold and unattractive, and the color simply adds to the blandness of the skyscrapers. Can you tell I'm not a huge fan of a lot of modern design concepts?

A Visit to the Bahai Temple

Here is the second set of pictures! On Sunday, we made a quick trip to the Bahai Temple, since it is such a beautiful building and my mom wanted to show it to my brother and his wife. The detail in the design of the temple is exquisite, with signs from all religions carved onto the entrance. According to the pamphlet, the Bahai faith believes that all religions worship the same god, and that they should be unified. There's also a bit about striving for world peace and for equality in the sexes and colors. Whether or not one agrees with their mission, we must give credit to the beauty in the building itself.

There are no pictures allowed inside, but here are some shots from the outside and from some of the surrounding area.

The Road North

I have been neglecting the site. This weekend was rather hectic and eventful and while I have been meaning to post all the pictures from the mini trips we made, I admit all sorts of other distractions get in the way. But here they are! This trip was to Madison, WI. We decided to go up to Madison for the farmers market--which according to my mom is the most amazing one she has been too--but apparently the main attraction was an art fair. And when we did eventually find the farmers, they were packing up and ready to go. Either way, it was a nice little adventure!

Island Paradise

Whenever you travel, you have to keep your mind open to new experiences and possibilities. It is likely that you will meet people with different customs, ideas; as well as eat foods you are not used to eating, and weather you are not used to enduring. However, it is those differences that make travel beautiful and exciting. If we wanted the same experience, we would simply stay home.

There is a lot of criticism of Cuba from people who dislike its government and its politics. You will hear bad things from foreigners and from some Cubans themselves. However, visiting Cuba for me isn't about the politics. It's about the family I still have there and the inevitable adventures that ensue from traveling there.

Remembering Paris

Roses Are Red

The Road South

Here's to dreaming of road trips past and future:

A More "European" Chicago

I came across the Instituto Cervantes again, and decided this time to go ahead and see what was inside. They have Spanish classes, and apparently once a week they hold a book club which apparently meets every 6 to 7 days, and I am seriously considering joining!

The Find--LaSalle Street

Took another route to the train station today. Chicago was relatively foggy all day, and it started clearing up around the time I was getting ready to leave. I wish I could have taken a picture with my phone, but I admit I was a bit embarrassed about taking a picture in front of the other people.

Still, on my way back I stopped by this coffee shopped called appropriately: Coffee Shoppe. I took, quite quickly and embarrassedly, some pictures of the interior. But unfortunately they turned out a bit blurry. I also realized, after having eaten my muffin and drank my espresso, that I hadn't taken a proper picture. Which means I'll have to stop by again soon and take some proper pictures!

The Road Less Travelled

Or at least for you, anyway.

Today, after work, I took a different route to the train station. My summer internship is by the Navy Pier, and I always choose to walk to Ogilvie for the sake of exercise and because it truly is an enjoyable time. Well, today I chose to go down Dearborn from the the Water Tower, and it was such a good choice! There were several new stores I'd never seen and since I took it at a comfortable pace, I got to take in all the different sites.

A Day in Navy Pier

It's been really hectic around here, and my house has been busier than ever! Which, for this case, is a good thing. However, I didn't have time to share some pictures I took after work, when I walked over to the Navy Pier. The morning (Wednesday) had been really crappy with thunderstorms and some rain, but it eventually cleared up and it was a wonderful day to be outside and enjoy the nice weather. Enjoy the shots I took!