Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Champaign Hi

The title from this week's blog comes from the Sister Hazel tune, "Champagne High." This one goes out to all my friends back home in Chicago as I salute you from central Illinois!

The move yesterday went smoother than could possibly have been imagined. I am moved in, mostly unpacked and ready to start taking the calendar of lessons I've mapped out and create actual lesson plans. 

I've had a few interactions with Champaign-Urbana (C-U) so far since I moved in. The first was a short drive into downtown Champaign for dinner at a local restaurant. The second was to America's own Walmart, Bed, Bath & Beyond and Meijer, which turns out is not just a grocery story but a Walmart want-to-be. All three places produced items for my home and I'm glad to have them a short drive away. Of course, everything here is a short drive away. Driving. Something I am going to get used to. Although, I believe there is a bus stop just down the street. I'll investigate its origins and destinations soon.

Cable was installed today. Lights are on. Furniture in place. Closets mostly organized. Once I get the file cabinet I'll be ready to really get the office organized. Rain threatened all day but no real results, although the small, heavy cells of storms did produce some good downpours up I-57 as Mom & Dad drove home. Here in C-U it was just dark skies and thunder.  I love rain though so I'll be happy to hear the storms if they come in tonight!

I'm looking forward to scouting the parks, fitness centers and other area haunts. Apparently the U of IL swing dance society has a dance on Thursday. Hopefully I'll check it out and let you all know how it is! 

For now, I'm going to keep working on the apartment and have another glass of water. I hope it is as warm up there as it has been in C-U today. It finally feels like summer! Enjoy it.