Chicago, IL

Hello from the Windy City

We completed our longest drive of the trip yesterday, about 9.5 hours from Niagara Falls to Chicago. Kelsey got behind the wheel of the Fit and did a great job with the manual transmission as we made our way through NY, Northern PA, Indiana and into Illinois.

We stopped for gas/lunch just inside Cleveland. Although we didn't get to explore the downtown area, we were both struck by the apparent state of the city. The evidence of the faltering economy is undeniable in some places. Our good fortune as human beings has been duly noted.

Chicago, on the other hand, is vibrant and beautiful. When we got near enough, we got off the highway and took Lake Shore Drive through the city so we could see lake Michigan up close. It was early evening and the scenery was beautiful.

Our first view of Lake Michigan- a glorious moment

Unfortunately, after we got done taking in the view, the traffic was outrageous. So after accidentally detouring straight through the hospital district at rush hour, we were very relieved to arrive (and find parking) at the doorstep of our good friend Shannon Falvey. For those that don't know Shannon, she went to GDA with me and Kels, and I think she is seriously wonderful.

Out on the town in Chicago

She has lived in Chicago for just over a year, in a beautiful old apartment in Lincoln Park in the northern part of the city, where she has graciously hosted us for the night. It's been great to catch up with her! She took us downtown to a trendy (swanky) rooftop bar last night with her friends. We had a wonderful time being out of the car, interacting with people other than ourselves, and generally stretching our legs in this new place.

We are just getting organized to get back on the road. We will leave this afternoon and drive about half the distance to Kansas City, our next destination. I've read about a small town in western Missouri called Hannibal, which is not in fact the scene of a horror movie but rather the historic birthplace of Mark Twain. It's a tourist destination with lots of touristy things to do, and as a part of that there are developed campgrounds right on the Mississippi River and that is where we intend to stay the night.

I will update again when I get the chance!

Love to all
xo
C