“I must confess a shameful secret: I love Chicago best in the cold.” Erik Larson, The Devil in the White City.
I’m only a few chapters into Larson’s book, but far enough in that I was looking forward to our visit with Danelle and Drew in Chicago with a slightly more interesting, more dark perspective into the city’s past.
Enjoying a short break in Evanston, while walking along the lakeshore.Saturday morning, we walked along the shores of Lake Michigan, in Evanston. This is a view looking at Chicago, tiny in the background, where we would spend Saturday night.Walking downtown Chicago, I was the true country boy in the city, always looking up.
Only days after the election, I had to marvel that this building is small compared to the towering con job that convinced so many average Americans that the entitled billionaire named on the tower had anything in common with them, let alone giving a shit about them. There’s roadblocks and hundreds of armored police officers for blocks around the building, or to comment on it using a Trump tweet, “Sad.”
Danelle & Drew took us to Cindy’s, a rooftop bar/restaurant in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, where we enjoyed drinks, a fire, some fantastic views and more good conversation.
View from Cindy’s
View from Cindy’s as evening wore on.View of Adler Planetarium from Cindy’s.Along our walk to dinner…a long walk to the bellyQ.So I wouldn’t necessary say, “I love Chicago best in the cold,” but I love Chicago and I love our reason for making the trip …
I write about the small and significant moments that shape our lives — family stories, friendships, personal observations, lessons learned, and the quiet experiences that often matter most. This site is a place to reflect on life with curiosity, gratitude, and honesty: the challenges that strengthen us, the people who influence us, and the everyday moments that deserve to be remembered. From cycling journeys and travel to conversations with grandchildren and reflections on resilience, I hope these writings encourage thoughtful living and deeper connection. My mission is to build a family legacy of strength, generosity, and steady & trustworthy leadership — embracing physical challenges, growing continuously, and encouraging my family and community to rise to theirs. I believe a meaningful life is built not only through accomplishments, but through consistency, kindness, endurance, and the example we leave for others.
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