It's In My Blood

Some time back in January, I got quite excited learning that I landed a long-term project that would keep me local at least for three months. Although by local they meant Schaumburg, I was pretty excited because I have never ever had a client remotely close to home. I thought this was one of the best things to happen to me in 2007. Until I experienced the long-ass commute from home. That put the kibosh on the excitement rather quickly. Something like in a matter of a couple days!

But I stuck it out. Then I started feeling like something was amiss. Every time I walk through my bedroom, that red suitcase looked pretty sad, all alone and neglected on the floor. It has not seen any action for months. I feel like I already forgot how to do expense reports, and my corporate American Express card no longer deserved a spot in my tiny wallet. My hotel points became stagnant, and I dreaded the inevitable fact that I may soon lose my Diamond Elite status with Hilton.

Sure, it was fun to be home everyday, but with the long commutes, all I wanted to do was take off my shoes and coat, cook dinner, and watch television. Nothing more, nothing less. Sure, I could go out every night and socialize, but it is unfamiliar territory. Worst of all, I no longer have funny and unique experiences usually associated with traveling that I can blog about.

I know I've said before that I want to get a job that will keep me in town. Start "settling" down, in terms of having a root, not like having a wife and children. I want that too, but not right now. And I'd be lying if I wasn't excited when I learned that I was finally heading out to Los Angeles to meet the western side of the client team. I couldn't wait to go!

Here I am, in Los Angeles. A city I really don't enjoy being in. But I'm still happy. I just don't know what's the biggest cause of it: that I finally got to travel, or that I have the opportunity to visit my little sister, a favorite uncle and a friend. I'm leaning towards being happiest because of my sister. So I'll still stick to the game plan. This traveling bit has still got to stop by the time I hit 30. That's the timetable. At least that's what I tell myself. =)