Wednesday, July 25, 2007

• Traveling

  It might as well be my middle name.  Planes, trains, and automobiles are all within my coterie; bicycles and roller-blades serve me well, too. 
  
  Yesterday I had a good time walking slowly up a giant hill, 3-ish miles from my campus to Steve's work and then on to the library when he had other stuff to do.  I put on sunscreen but still have some slightly rosy spots on my cheeks beneath my eyes.  I picked up a book on quiches and savory pies, we went home for him to change into civilian clothes, and then we went out for dinner and to get some much-needed clothes.  My underwire gave out, so I had to get new bras, and Steve's belt had split in half, so he got a new work belt and a pair of pants.  It was so domestic it was funny.  We talked about work and career aspirations and babies and things.  We are traveling, physically and spiritually and life-ally(?) together.  It's pretty sweet.
  
  Tonight or tomorrow I am heading to Chicago.  I will be driving.  If anybody has any recommendations for things to see or do or places to eat, let me know.  I have friends in the suburbs who are willing to house me and take me to the El station to do my thang.  Additionally, a friend of mine has a hotel room downtown for a couple of nights.  Right now, my plans involve pizza and the Art Institute tomorrow, the Field Museum and a classical concert in the park on Friday, and time with friends Saturday.  I will bring my hotel-ridden friend back home with me to Ohio either Saturday or Sunday to show him my little city, me mum's garden, and my kitty.  I hope that smoothies and bike riding will be involved.  His plane leaves Monday afternoon. 
  
  I love road trips.  Driving is time for me to be aware of my surroundings, anticipating other drivers' moves; and it's also a time for me to be meditative and contemplative, or to have deep conversations with passengers... or deep and mutually satisfying silences.  Though many of my ideals are growing more and more European, there is still something so very American and idyllic about the open road.  I practically grew up in the car, and in the RV (inside books and up trees, too, but that's for another blog or twenty).  Talked to me mum last night about her wanting to get a small RV when they retire.  Daddy likes traveling to see friends and family, and Mama doesn't so much mind it except that there's no place of her own most of the time.  An RV is a great way to combine the two.  No hotel costs, you don't have to share a toilet, and you can leave whenever you want to.  I don't know that I'll ever get an RV; I like little cars too much, and I have friends and family enough around the country that I don't mind staying with (and hopefully don't mind my company).  Taking some major stretch of highway to the west or to the east.  Any drive and any day now, I shall be released.
  

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