To be reminded...

. . . of why you miss where you came from, and why you love the new place where you are. Spent a weekend back in Washington here just a little bit ago. The first of what will hopefully be many annual get-togethers of the Livingston siblings. The two hour time difference did wonders for my ability to get up early and do a little photography before the day got going in earnest. It was cloudy and gray almost the entire time I was there - iconic Western Washington weather. I hadn't realized how much I've become accustomed to the landscape and foliage of the Midwest. Wandering the fire roads near my parent's place really did feel like reacquainting myself with an old friend. It's gorgeous county, but not without it's flaws and idiosyncrasies - just like Indiana and Illinois. I loved the trip and had a great time getting back up to speed with the family. I'm looking forward to the next time. But I have to say that -- for the first real time since I've moved from the West to the Midwest -- stepping out into that hot, humid morning at O'Hare didn't feel like walking into some curious and alien place - it felt like coming home.