Chicago 2016 – Day Six: Embracing the Art of Laziness

A Skype with Mum and a Monster BLT

Today has been the laziest day of the trip so far. I started the morning with a Skype call to my mum & dad. It’s always lovely catching up with them, hearing all the latest back home. Once the call was over, we ventured out for what you might call breakfast—or was it brunch? Either way, we found ourselves at Butterfield’s again.

This time, I fancied something simple: a classic BLT. But, of course, in the grand tradition of American cuisine, ‘simple’ doesn’t quite translate. What arrived was a behemoth of a sandwich, practically half a loaf of bread with the crusts included. And naturally, it came with a generous side of fries. In the USA, nothing is served in half measures; it’s go big or go home!

Retail Therapy and the Art of Driving

After our meal, we took a stroll around the local shopping mall. It’s amazing how quickly a bit of retail therapy can empty your pockets, especially when you’re growing a belly on this American diet!

In the afternoon, I let Michele take the wheel for a bit of driving practice in the car park. Now, I must admit, I’m not the most patient instructor. Michele is a capable driver, but I make for a rather anxious passenger. Let’s just say it’s a test of nerves for both of us!

Family Time with Julie, Joe, and a Few Errands

We popped over to Julie and Joe’s later in the day and had a lovely catch-up with Aunty Jilla. The rest of the household was fast asleep, enjoying their lazy day to the fullest.

I had a few errands to run: picking up suits, collecting Rachel and Nick from Lisle station, and grabbing some sandwiches from Subway. After dropping off the car at the hotel, I asked the Hilton bellhop for a lift back to Julie and Joe’s. Unfortunately, I was met with a bit of a jobsworth response: they only drop off at businesses, not private homes.

A Walk in the Spring Sun

In the end, I decided to walk. It was only a mile to Julie’s, a pleasant twenty-minute stroll in the warm spring sun. Besides, walking meant I could enjoy a drink with everyone once I got there.

We spent another delightful evening with the family at Julie’s. It’s moments like these that make me so grateful Julie encouraged us to visit back in 2014. Seeing the US through the eyes of locals rather than as tourists has been an eye-opening experience.

Reflections on the American Experience

We have thoroughly enjoyed our time in the US, thanks to the warm hospitality of family and friends. It’s a unique way to experience a country, getting to know it from the inside out rather than just ticking off the tourist spots. Hopefully, we’ll get the chance to visit again in the future and make more wonderful memories.