Chicago, quickly

Wednesday morning I did not head to work, no.  It was Burbank Airport for me. 

A flight to Denver, and then a flight from there. 

Final destination:  Chicago.

Look, I love Chicago.  Yes, I was a little tired and kind of peeved

by the transient person smoking on the Blue Line, but I love Chicago.  I always appreciate any chance to visit.  But one day of meeting (that could have been a Zoom!)?  Come on.  Make my long trip worthwhile.

Enough griping, though.  I am in my favourite USian city, far and away.  What even comes close?  Nothing.  And how is this for adding to that feeling:  a welcome bowl of junk food in my hotel room. 

I shan't say how much has been devoured already.

Yesterday morning, after a choppy night of sleep, started out with a good walk with a friend. 

Chicago was kind of socked in, and we had a lot to catch up on, so I didn't grab photos, sorry.  But a welcome walk after a day on a plane.  I put on my official bow tie (insert eye roll emoji),

and headed off for the meeting.  We were done by 3:00.

And then it was a relaxing evening.

I met a former boss of mine for dinner at Purple Pig. 

It was nice to see him, but bittersweet.  We all diminish with age, I know.  I'll leave it there.  The restaurant - his suggestion - was unfortunately loud, but the food was good.  I savoured the confit turkey leg,

and I can only wish that my US Thanksgiving turkey in two weeks will be as tender.  And then back to the hotel with me to grab a boulevardier at the hotel bar and call it a night.

I can't wait to go back to Chicago, for longer.  Please.  But I will be glad to be home as we draw closer to the holidays.