Marilyn and I both left Chicago behind this week.
It was a good run while it lasted.
Or should I say walk? Since I must have walked about 20 miles in the four days I was there – from my friend’s townhouse to the Metra to the “L” to meeting to meeting to taxi (because I’m doing all this walking in work shoes and now my feet are killing me and it’s worth the four bucks to not have to walk another mile) to one end of the convention center to the other end again to trolley to party to movie to bar to party again.
Tired as I was, though, the walking is one thing I love so much about Chicago. It’s one of those places where, if you live like a local and embrace public transportation, you can see so much more than tail lights on the journey from here to there.
Plus you can arrive home at the exact same moment as a whole mob of people who are all getting off the commuter train at the same time as you. Watching a wave of workers spread out into the neighborhood after a long day’s work – and being part of it – reminded me of living in Washington, D.C., and it made me smile.
In between the moments I spent walking and meeting (and trying to keep myself fed and hydrated and warm enough for the weather of the moment, which, if you know me, is a full-time job), I did a little wandering with no plans and no expectations. I had to fight the voices in my head that were yelling, “You have three free hours in Chicago! Museum! Tour bus! Miracle Mile! Do not waste a minute!”
But I happen to know that my favorite part of any trip – or really, life – is all the unexpected stuff you happen upon along the way. The little moments that make your experience in a place a little different from everyone else’s.
Like the hour spent soaking in the hot sun in the middle of a city garden with a fresh magazine.
Like staring at a sea of brilliant blossoms, the first you’ve seen this season.
Like buying nerd glasses from a sunglasses vendor and wearing them around as if you actually need them.
And like enjoying a burger and a beer with a college friend who is as comfortable and loved as a favorite sweater.
Thanks for having me, Chicago. I’ll be back soon!
xo
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