1 Down; 49 to Go

Clearly, launching my 50th year through a Facebook post (and all the prompts that Facebook provides for reminding people about my birthday) helped me reconnect with folks. I've received a good number of creative ideas, as well as requests to get together.

And, sometimes things just work out. Like hearing from a college roommate who you haven't seen for at least a dozen years, just two weeks before you will be 15 minutes away from his office. The bonus was that we both had a whole night free so we could find something new in Chicago for me to kick off my 50x50 year!

I am a huge fan of the High Line in NYC, so when I found out that there was something similar in Chicago, I knew it was something I would enjoy. And, the 606 (a 2.6 mile public elevated trail that opened 4 years ago along the old Bloomingdale Line - and is named for the area code of Chicago) did not disappoint.

Jeremy (not my husband, but my college roommate) and I enjoyed a leisurely walk at sunset, taking in the views of the various neighborhoods and greenery while catching up on each other's work, kids, parents, and other goings-on for the last decade or so.

We ended the night at one of my favorite spots, the Aviary, where Jeremy got his new experience - fancy, creative cocktails as well as the legendary Black Truffle Explosion (not pictured, but a must-taste morsel!).

Overall, my first 50x50 experience had all the key ingredients - I got to do something new; I did it with someone I like; and I enjoyed the activity and the company. Thanks, Jeremy, for getting this party started. So, who and what is next?