Early Mornings and Loves...

Seriously, whyyyyyyy did we think an early morning flight to Chicago was a good thing? Whose brilliant idea was it, anyway? (Hint: probably Louise's; she's the earlier riser.)

That being said, we're grateful for the little things...like a Peet's coffee in the airport.



(Hello, Gorgeous)


After flights to Los Angeles, and then on to Chicago (thank you, Southwest, for that crazy route), we found our luggage, and got our car for this journey. Our hip-mobile. The shiny symbol of the open road, the holder of our adventures, the epic form of transportation that will help to create this odyssey of ours.

It's a Prius.

Hey, at least what we don't have in coolness factors, we will make up in gas mileage?

We seriously need to find some fluffy dice for the mirror. Do they still sell those?!? Maybe at a truck stop?

We spent dinner not in the heart of the city, but in one of the outskirts because, well...this girl.





Isha was a student of mine, waaaaay back when she was in sixth grade. She's now doing summer school just outside of Chicago. We spent the evening catching up, talking about life, and me just marveling at what an amazing, strong, vibrant young woman she's become. So glad we got to spend time with her.

And, she got to meet Louise.


(Pay no attention to the photo bomber in the back; his wife offered to take the picture, so we figure that if he wants to be in the picture, he can be in the picture. We shall call him "George.")

Tomorrow, the open road awaits! To...Indiana (anyone else singing, "Gary, Indiana" from "The Music man" with me? Just me? Okay...). I know, it's not on Route 66...but family is there, and since we've come this far, to visit family, it is!

Goodnight from Chicago-ish-area.