Best. Gift. Ever.

The only person I ever exchange Christmas gifts with is my best friend Kristin. It's become a tradition to exchange presents on Christmas Eve and give each other an ornament. This year Kiki gave me the most thoughtful present I've ever received... and anchor necklace. While the necklace is beautiful, it's what she wrote on the card that had me in tears...

I wear this necklace everyday. And every time I touch it I think of not only Kristin, but also of hope, steadfastness, taking chances, having new experiences, certainty, and trust. I love this card so much I put it in a frame. Sometimes we need those daily reminders to trust ourselves and try new things!

Thank you Kiki! I will cherish this gift all the days of my life <3

Chicago's Red Line Holiday Train!!

If you've ever been to Chicago you've probably seen the El Trains. The El, standing for elevated, is one of the most popular forms of transportation in the city. Every year, during the holidays, the city runs the Holiday Train. The holiday train is sure to turn the grumpiest scrooges into happy, holiday fun loving people. The interior of the trains are decked out with lights, bows, and garland. The cars are pumped with the scent of cinnamon and gum drops. The hand poles are transformed into candy canes and Santa Clause even rides on an open-air flatcar, waving to passerby-ers. Everyone who rides the Holiday Train has a smile on their face, it's inevitable!

Me and Santa

There he goes, off to the next stop!

That's not Starbucks in that cup!

Outside of the holiday train 

My best bud, Veronica's the one who took me for a Holiday Train/Birthday ride!

We're so happy!

What we saw when the train pulled up

Even the seats are cute!

I don't know who wouldn't love the holiday train! <3 <3 <3