Returning to Naperville, IL, after Several Years

Illinois

June - July 2024

A Long-Awaited Return to Our Old Hometown

On our way from South Bend, IN, to Naperville, IL, we avoided the highway and took a detour since we had some time to spare. Along the way, we also did some shopping, so by the time we arrived at the Red Roof Inn, we could check in right away. Once we were settled in, we stretched our legs by walking to the entrance of McDowell Grove Preserve and back.

I was excited about this week in Naperville, the town we originally moved to from the Netherlands and lived in for seven years. We moved away in 2014 and only drove up once in 2017 for a quick visit on our way from San Antonio to our graduating son in Stevens Point, WI. I had contacted friends and acquaintances to let them know we would be in the area and would love to catch up.

Reconnecting with Familiar Faces

I loved meeting up with my Dutch friend again. We went to downtown Naperville for a coffee in the morning, and before we knew it, it was time to say goodbye again. Since my friend leads an international women’s group in Naperville, she invited me to join the following Friday.

So, I saw some old familiar faces there as well. It was wonderful to see and talk to these women again, especially since I hadn’t seen most of them in almost ten years. It felt like no time had passed at all once we all started talking.

On the Road Again after A Week of Old Favorites

After a full week of socializing with familiar faces and revisiting our favorite spots, like downtown Chicago, Springbrook Prairie, and McDowell Grove Forest Preserve, we were on the road again! We even managed to fit in a trip to Evanston, IL, and a dinner at Catch 35, our absolute favorite restaurant in Naperville.

Although the Red Roof was up to par and we were perfectly equipped to make healthy meals there or safely walk around, I was ready to drive to our next Airbnb.