So we’ve come to the #1 in my Top Ten list of Chicago milestones. I found 2251 by walking through the neighborhood when I was nannying. I was pregnant with Charlie and it was the dead of winter. Lincoln Square used to seem SO far away from all civilization, but now that we’ve lived here for 3 years, we think it’s a pretty phenomenal place to live, especially if you have little ones. Family-friendly and quiet, the charming square and fountain in the center of the ‘hood calls to mommies, artists, and hipsters alike.

2251 is the only home Charlie and Ella have ever known. When we moved in, we spent hours pouring over the perfect nursery for our baby girl-to-be. We had two cats and no babies. Now, moving out, we still have two cats, but now have two babies and all the stuff that goes with them. Sweet Ella has napped in the pack n’ play in our bedroom and spent her nights in a crib set up in the office. I’ve shared a very small closet with both girls. We’ve manuevered a postage stamp of a kitchen with no island and very old appliances.

We’ve also met and befriended some fantastic neighbors, had birthday parties in the backyard, and hosted easter egg hunts and 4th of July dinners. Charlie has drawn on the sidewalks, skinned her knees countless times, and run back and forth between here and the square, giggling all the way.

To be honest, I will not miss 2251, but I will remember it fondly and with great affection. What I will miss, are the memories our little family has made here.