I remembered, and when Gabe suggested that he should go to Chicago to a Geek Conference for work, I suggested that I should go with him. He thought I'd be bored all by myself, but I knew better. I relished the thought of walking around by myself, reading a book uninterrupted by myself, visiting museums by myself....I think you get the picture.
I was thrilled to be able to go to Chicago with Gabe, and although the flight there did not go as planned, everything else was fantastic.
Tuesday morning I headed out to Navy Pier, where I rode the Ferris Wheel alone, then walked 5 miles along Lake Shore Drive where I was passed by a million runners and bikers (just like a Saturday long run at home). I thoroughly enjoyed the solitude. I also thoroughly enjoyed a Chicago Dog and snow cone. I didn't have to share with anyone. After walking a little further than I intended to (Gabe is much better at finding things than I am-we have an Arc de Triumph Paris story about that), I got back on track and made it to Millennial Park where I found a shady spot and fell asleep. It was awesome. I rode the subway back to our hotel and met up with Gabe and some Utah associates for dinner. We then went to a party at Lucky Strikes Lanes (code for bar with a couple token bowling lanes). While Gabe networked I sipped Diet Coke's and visited with a crazy woman. I did get in on a couple bowling games to, and though not-intoxicated still couldn't bowl over 80.
Wednesday morning I drooled over the dolls at the American Girl Place store and wandered around the Lego store wishing just for that few minutes that my boys were with me. I met up with Gabe for lunch then rode the subway to Willis Tower (you know it as the Sears Tower). I had been there before but the allure of standing out on the ledge glass box drew me in. Afterwards I headed to the Art Institute of Chicago, where I spent 35 minutes racing through to see the most iconic pieces (I shouldn't have stopped for that slice of pizza). The art was breathtaking. Dinner with Gabe was a Chicago deep dish pizza. It was a very good day.
Thursday morning, I rode the subway to Lincoln Park. I sort of got off at the wrong stop, but all was well. I didn't die or get mugged or anything. The park was a little ghetto (at least the path I was on) but soon enough I got to the path along Lake Michigan and enjoyed a nice walk along the lake. I met Gabe for lunch and then went to a movie, all by myself. Even that was awesome. (Harry Potter, if you must know. And I enjoyed every minute of it). Alas, all good things must come to an end. Gabe and I grabbed one last Chicago Dog then rode the train to the airport.
The whole trip was just what the doctor ordered. I didn't even know I was sick. I felt spoiled (and a little guilty), and completely refreshed to face the world.
4 comments:
the simple joys of not having to share your treats with anyone. Im glad you had fun.
Sounds heavenly. When you're stressed and having to share your ice cream just close your eyes and remember the sweet times in Chicago.
Chicago would be the best place to wander around alone. I love that city. Although there were several times I wished my kids were there and could see some of the things, too. Looks like an amazing trip :)
I wanted to cry a little for you.(because you were so happy) A little jealous of your freedom and all the fun you had. Wish I could have one of those trips!
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