i left my heart in chicago.

How hard will it be to leave a city you’ve grown to love for the past eight years? 

I’m not gonna lie. When I first moved here for college back in 2004, whether if it was the culture shock or unfamiliarity, I didn’t like it here.  I didn’t fit in and (no offense and plus I didn’t know better) I thought Americans were a different species from myself altogether. I had an American roommate, Melissa whom I remember asking in my efforts to fit in, “What do I talk to Americans about?”

Fast forward to 2012.

Thinking back, I laugh at my silliness.

I still remember when Melissa teased the way I pronounced 'economics' and 'contemplating' (She found it so amusing that she had post-its no the wall next to her bed with the two words written on it – she insisted it would cheer her up whenever she feels down). However, I’ve learned that we are not all that different and in fact we talk about the same random craziness like I usually do with my Malaysian friends.

Chicago is very special to me. The most significant reason is that it has helped me find my passion in life – food. Food blogging is my favorite project, eating is the ultimate past time. I’ve learned to write about food and improved over the years because of the variety of cuisine Chicago offers unconditionally. As my love for the city grew, so did my passion for food. On top of that, I’ve been offered opportunities to experience new flavors and events. It saddens me to leave something so special to me in a less than an hour, even more so with several restaurants I have wanted but have yet to try.

As much as I was comfortable and happy with my other aspects outside of career, life is about progression and moving forward – writing new chapters in life. My pursuit for good career and figuring out what to do in life has led me away from my most favorite city in the USA. I may sound positive and hopeful but trust me, my friends have had to deal with my pessimism, self doubting and second thoughts – even though I know in the back of my mind, this might be the best choice after weighing out the options I have.

To answer the question – how difficult is it?

A herculean effort.

Eight years is a long time. Packing it into boxes took several weeks. 

I hope that I will return to Windy City’s delicious and cool embrace in a very short time. Heck, I'd even take the long and freezing winters.

As a friend once said, it’s not goodbye. It’s see you again soon.

Chicago has definitely earned a spot in my heart as my second home. <3

i really can't wait to be back again. 

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P.S. There are still a few restaurants in Chicago that I have yet to write about namely storefront company, paris club, to name a few. I have yet to write about these places  since I’ve been busy but it will be written! 

My future plans for the blog :: my focus will be shifted to food entries about places wherever my work brings me. So you don’t want to miss it. :)

Bottom line ::  I will still be around - eating my way around the cities. Food is far too important to me to give it up :) and sharing it with you is what I love to do.