The Little Things That Mean “I Love You” in Illinois

In Illinois, we don't always say "I love you" out loud.  Sometimes we say it in much more practical ways, like yelling "WATCH OUT, POTHOLE" at the exact right moment.  And if you know, you know.

Long winters, unpredictable weather, construction season that somehow lasts all year, and roads that feel personally offended by our tires.  So, when someone goes out of their way to make your life a little easier here?  That's affection.

The Little Things That Mean “I Love You” in Illinois

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Saying I love you in Illinois looks like scraping your partner's windshield when it's 10 degrees out and the wind hurts your face.  It's letting them warm up your car while you finish getting ready for work.  It's texting "roads are bad, take it slow" instead of "good morning".

The little things.

It's knowing exactly which lane to avoid because it's been under construction since 2010.  It's warning someone about speed traps (I do this all the time!).  It's sharing your location no matter where you go because crime might be a little high here...

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Food plays a big role, too.  Love is asking if they want anything "while I'm out," knowing damn well that means Casey's pizza or whatever local spot you both swear by.  It's grabbing extra napkins to refill their stash in their car!

In the winter, love means staying in.  Canceling plans without guilt.  Turning a night out into sweatpants, delivery, and a show you both have already seen.  It's offering your hoodie at outdoor events even though you'll be freezing, too.  It's bonding over the shared misery of snow and ice.  Love here isn't flashy, it's practical and thoughtful.  Again, the little things.