We moved our kids from a small town to Chicago. They're more independent, and we have more to do.
A parent reflects on her family's transition from a rural New Jersey town to Chicago, highlighting the increased independence and cultural opportunities available in the city. She contrasts the quiet isolation of her previous home with the vibrant community life she now experiences.
Why it matters
This personal narrative touches on broader societal trends regarding urban migration and the search for community-oriented living post-pandemic.
The author and her kids have more to do in Chicago than they did when they were living in a small rural town in New Jersey. Courtesy of Hannah Howard My husband and I had been living in a small town in New Jersey since 2020. We liked it, but missed parts of the city life in New York we were used to. When he got a job in Chicago, we moved, and it's been the best decision for our family. Last weekend felt almost comically Chicago. On Saturday morning, I took my two young kids and our dog to our closest neighborhood park, then walked over to Mindy's for coffee and a raspberry pastry. (Worth the line!) Later, a friend texted. Her parents' friends had a boat, and did we want to come out on Lake Michigan ?
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