Today, a January in Chicago, is a shockingly warm 51 degrees (...but to some, global warming doesn't exist, right?) and normally while I would definitely want and plan to be outside on a surprisingly sunny Saturday as such, I was able to incorporate my hobbies in a much healthier way, and I'm left feeling more wholesome than left to be chasing the next experience.

Normally, on the weekends, I want to be "out" and "doing things"- but those things end up costing a lot of money, since those things normally include, but aren't limited to cafes, concerts, movies, museums, restaurants, travel/day trips, and nightlife. Instead, today, I had the privilege and responsibility to babysit my neighbor's dogs with my boyfriend - an adorable husky and corgi puppy.

We took them on an hour-long walk by the lake due to the warm weather and then made sure they were fed and hung around with them for an extra hour to keep them company while their owners were out. After this, we were able to meet up with my boyfriend's family and take his dog (a playful Wheaton terrier) to both the dog park and a doggy meet up at a local bar.

The amount of dogs I've encountered today is usually the numeric value of the amount I would encounter in a month - not that my love for dogs can ever be numerically satisfied. Maybe it is time to succumb to the only want I've had for almost - if not over - two decades and get a puppy for myself?

All in all, it was probably the most wholesome day I've had in a long time. I have spent absolutely no money today, despite spending four hours outdoors, getting exercise, and spending time with creatures that show you nothing but unconditional love - my boyfriend included.