Homeward Bound

Heading out from Chicago this morning, and back to Los Angeles later today.  I may write something this evening -- or I may have too much to catch up.  We'll see. 

The elves taking care of the homestead have been given advance warning, so my assumption is that they'll clean up the place and leave it in the same state they found it.  As we said from my days in the park service, "Leave only footprints, take only memories."  Though I don't expect to see any footprints.  Ahem...

The trip has been excellent.  I got to see some favorite spots -- the Chicago Art Institute and Chicago Botanic Garden (actually in Glencoe, long-walking distance from where I grew up) -- the Disneyland of Botanic Gardens.  And I stuffed myself at my favorite spots:  Charlie Beinlich's Food & Tap, Del Rio's, Walker Bros., and Chicago pizza (this time at Lou Malnati's).  And of course, the Cubs at Wrigley Field.  All a joy to get back to after five years away, because of the pandemic.

I also spent a wonderful Mother's Day with my 96-year-old Aunt Joan (who I'm staying with) and cousin, up at the 96-year-old Deerpath Inn for their excellent buffet.

Be back soon...