My aunt, Vicki, is in town this weekend for a conference and so I'm lucky enough to share her cozy hotel room here at the Drake Hotel. The Drake is certainly out of the norm of my previous hotel/motel stays...as I got out my car on the very busy side street off the Magnificent Mile...I had to think to myself, "You're not in Kansas anymore"...or at least "You're not at a Holiday Inn Express anymore". So after the stress of valet parking (I have no idea where my car is right now) and the stress of trying to figure out how to not get them to take my bags to my room...I made it to my aunt basically without any injuries.
Yesterday was a beautiful day in the city and it made me come to love it. Although it was very cold and windy...and the crowds were definitely in full force at Macy's, there's something about being in a beautiful town with people you know...or even just one person. My countdown to my arrival to Lawrence has been in my head since July, but each time someone comes to visit...I almost forget about Lawrence. I just love being with the people that know me. Is that selfish? Egotisitical? Or maybe just human.
Vicki and I had a lovely lunch at a little Italian place (a little more upscale than Cupini's that I remember enjoying w/ the Reddigs). Anyhow, Vicki order a glass of wine...so I followed with the "I'll have the same" line...and we toasted to a fun weekend with eachother. Little did we know that when you say "I'd like just a nice red wine" and the server responds "Yes, I can fine you a perfect fit"...it means that the glass of wine will end up costing you more than food on your plate. Lesson learned: Always, always look at a price list. :) But, it was a very nice red wine.
After an afternoon along Michigan Avenue, we went to Mass at Holy Name Cathedral. I think I might start going to this parish instead of St. A's in Evanston. It would be a drive every Sunday, but it might be worth it. They have a 20/30 somethings group there and I felt during the liturgy that same feeling that I would get at St. Lawrence...home. The priest's homily was also very inspiring...as he discussed living a balanced life through the advise of his aunt, "God made the day 24 hours. 8 for sleeping. 8 for working. And 8 for diversion." I wish I could say that I lived this way, but I don't...but it made me wonder what the world would be like if we all lived this way. He also discuss CPR---Courtesty, Politeness, and Respect. It is crazy how something so simple can make such a impact and and make you say "Oh wow" (like my niece, Mary Ann). Anyhow, CPR is how we should live our lives...Courteous in what we say, Polite in how we act, and Respectful in our attitude. I don't know...it's cheesy, but sometimes cheese is profound (and yes, you can quote me on that).
Next up was "Wicked"...for those of your Broadway musical fans out there...go see this show...NOW!! It is such an amazing storyline and I must read the book now. The music was beautiful...and one song in particular just centered me on the CPR priniciple. I remember learning at Mass or in one of St. Lawrence's classes that each new day, each new person you meet...you can have truly affect them. Maybe not right away...and maybe not for several years after you have lost complete connection with them...but even a little simple thing can make them remember you and you may never ever know. I know there are so many people in my life that have imprinted something in me...whether it was faith, confidence, humor, love...anyhow, I know I'm just reflecting here, but I guess in these past few months here "on my own", I just need to reflect so that I can figure out where I'm suppose to go next. So in the meantime, I'll leave you with this...a few lyrics from "Wicked"
I've heard it said
That people come into our lives for a reason
Bringing something we must learn
And we are led
To those who help us most to grow
If we let them
And we help them in return
Well, I don't know if I believe that's true
But I know I'm who I am today
Because I knew you
~mitzi
3 comments:
Mitzi...I was at the Drake in 1992 for an Air Force conference on Quality control. It was very memorable. That place is awesome. I was a major at the time and upon check in at the front desk they had me down as a colonel. Well...the room I got was for a colonel and not for a major. I could not believe the amenities. His and hers bath robes, full bar, three TVs, and many much more I can't remember. A true significant emotional event. Enjoyed all the shops and eateries nearby. Hi to your Aunt Vicki.
Rick Buschelman
OH MAN - two buschelman comments right in a row. I have nothing that cool to say about staying in a hotel (I recently stayed at the VOQ at Hanscom AFB, MA). But I WAS going to say this - its great that you like expensive red wine!! Maybe we can plot to drink some at Christmas!! Ciao!!
ok, you're home now...new comment!
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