my birthday weekend was very satisfying. T&T stayed the weekend, so i had lots of laughs, lots of good food, lots of walking and talking. i got to show off the neighborhood, which i love doing. i think that we should hit the museum of science and industry and jackson park when you guys come again!

my party was pretty cool--kind of laid-back. i felt like i had to keep moving, talking to everyone, and so i don't really remember what i talked about with anyone. but hey, it's just great to have so many friends who wanted to come over to see me, to nosh and chat and drink. of course i grossly overestimated how much people might eat and i will be eating this stuff for the rest of the week. i don't even know what to do with all the olives. but i think i can handle having potatoes and cake on hand for the next few days!

yesterday i went on a great walk to the beach near here. i'd never even considered walking there before, but now i think it will be a semi-regular jaunt. also i got offered drugs on the street for the second time in my life. so i guess now i look like what i am? i don't know.

today i am looking for new apartments online. i should go to work but it's just damn hot again today. this weekend my parents are coming to celebrate my birthday. we are eating at someplace yummy!!! full disclosure later.