We are scheduled to stay here for two weeks to attend a wedding in Chicago on July 12th. The campsite was about 100 yards from the Lake Michigan looking south east. Morning sunrises were spectacular over the water. We were actually able to see a portion of the Chicago skyline from the beach on a real clear day. There are great breezes coming off the lake too. They help to beat the humidity.
Every morning we were awakened by the cadence call of the sailors out for their morning run. I sure was glad I wasn't part of that run. The final hill was a killer for sure. Then there was Tim G on the beach. He was a recent graduate of the Basic Underwater Demolition School and getting himself ready for the rest of his training as a Navy Seal. I'm not too sure about the running with an arm full of a large tree or the doing push ups in the cold water of the lake. According to the women with me, he sure was in "good shape".
Then there was the real reason we were in Chicago. The marriage of Jason, our nephew, to Jamie. It was held at the Palmer House and was a real fun time for all. This will truly be a day for them to remember.We have now picked up our grandson. This will give us some good quality time which is very hard to come by these days. It'll be a great time for us seeing them exposed to new experiences.
Chicago was Chicago. Big city with $25+ parking, traffic, traffic and more traffic. Oh yes, there is Millennium Park. Chicago has done a great job of changing things for the tourist. It's a lot more interesting than what I remember. Then again a lot changes in 45 years.
Seeing the family was also a great time. We were able to go to 6 Flags Park with my sister, Marge, and the boys John & Nick. It was more roller coasters and high rides. The best part was when my grandson wanted to go on the Giant Drop. It's a ride that climbs 200 feet into the sky before dropping riders into a high-speed free fall. Well, two thirds up the ride, he says, "Papa, you know I'm afraid of heights". Talk about being committed with nowhere to go but up and then down. He made it through OK. Needless to say he did not want to go again.Then we had Roseann's mom, sister, Mary, and nephew, David, out to the base for a visit of our "condo on wheels". We shared some very fresh lake salmon and a great time was had by all.
Wednesday we were able to meet up with old friends from Albuquerque, Al Mason, Joan Carter and their son Jeffrey. It's what our journey is all about. Reconnecting with people who have touched our lives along our journey of life. We'll see them again for sure.
Laundry day and clean up the RV. Rain is coming down with a vengeance. We haven't seen this much rain in a long time in Albuquerque. I hope the RV floats. :)
Friday brought our niece Jennifer out for a visit. It was good to see her and hear about her life's dreams and aspirations. We wish her the best. She was able to share in attending a USO concert given by Lt Dan's Band, Gary Sinise of CSI: NY fame. What a thrill. Picnic supper on the parade grounds, Navy trainees all around and great music. What a way to spend a Friday night. We'll remember that for a long time for sure.
Can't believe it's already Saturday. Two weeks have just flown by so quickly. Time does fly when you're having fun. Time to pack things up and move on down the road tomorrow. It's been great.
