Yes, I know it was all for work - I was down in the city covering Canadian National and the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern purchase - but I'm still counting it. Especially since it was twice what my trainers suggested for today! YAY!
For those of you who didn't know, today was also Earth Day. I love this non-Hallmark holiday because it's a time to really let Ma Nature know that you care. Plant a tree, pick up some trash, hop on the bike instead of in the car. In honor of my favorite not-Hallmark but not quite official holiday, I played Chicago professional. One of my favorite things about this facade is hoofing it alongside the other commuters along the Chicago River. You can tell who's really serious about it because they wear nice professional clothes - suits and skirts and ties and such - and tennis shoes, carrying their professional shoes in satchels, valises and computer cases. I personally strolled in a pair of black flats that I've had since my Boticelli's days, and carried my heels in my bag - just like I knew what I was doing. Doesn't hurt that playing Chicago Professional also really racks up the miles!
Andy drove my coffee and me to the Metra station this morning where I caught the train, rode it into the city and from which I hoofed it 1.5 miles across town to upper Michigan Ave. From there, it was a quick cab ride (sorry Kate, I ran out of time and had to make a press conference) 2 miles to Federal Plaza. Lunch break was with my father-in-law, the industrious Paul Peterson, who hoofed it with me about 1.5 miles to Millennium Park and back, then another mile or so back to the train station. From there, it was another hour on the train then a 1.9 mile trek back to the apartment where I sat on the balcony, made phone calls and listened to Spanish Flamenco music while I wrote a story on deadline. I got everything wrapped up and to my editor by 5:10 p.m. Not too shabby.
Furthermore, it was one of those glorious days that you only get in spring in Chicago where it's warm, but not too warm, and the house could be left open. Everything smelled like loam and earth and cool possibilities when I got home.
So, it was a good day. I did my part to reduce my reliance on the energy grid for a day, and we saved money on gas (a massive bonus) by only driving one car. It's just too bad that the demands of life mean we can't do this every day.
Happy Earth Day everyone, and happy alternatives to driving!
With best wishes for good health and love,
Regs
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