Took a drive around town today. It seems like we’ll never get out from under this. It made me think of all the things I miss. Here’s a list that popped into my head.
I miss:
- Being able to walk into a store without wearing a mask or waiting in line 6 feet apart. (Although I do appreciate the wide personal space.)
- Walking along the lakefront.
- Taking my bike down for a ride all the way to the Museum Circle.
- Trekking through the nature trails and parks.
- Enjoying the zoo.
- Visiting Chicago’s museums.
- Checking out books at the library.
- Working with students.
- Sweating at outdoor festivals such as the Taste of Chicago.
- Stopping by my fave food joint and ordering Chinese food.
- Watching the latest movie at the theater.
- Seeing a play at the Shakespeare Theatre.
- Going to the top of Sears Tower and watching the sunset.
- Drinking a latte at the Hancock Observatory.
- Chatting with the ladies at the salon as I get my eyebrows threaded.
- Getting my hair cut and styled.
- Pedicuring my toes at the nail salon.
- Picking up coffee at the counter at Starbucks and chatting with friends.
- Visiting the Starbucks Roastery and savoring their delicious offerings.
- Shopping at brick and mortar stores that are shuttered now (Apple/clothing/department, etc.)
- Strolling through Old Orchard shopping mall.
- Chomping on a Shake Shack burger and cheese fries with my kid.
- IKEA. I actually miss that behemoth.
- Waiting in line for a table at the Olive Garden for Mother’s Day with my mom and daughter.
- Being able to dine-in at any restaurant.
- Assembling for a worship service.
- Going to sporting events.
- Meeting friends for drinks at a bar.
- Riding on a crowded CTA train. (But I don’t miss the filth or the weirdos.)
- Traveling to other states, towns and cities.
There’s more. These are the things I miss the most. Being inside for this length of time isn’t good for anybody. I do go out briefly for essentials. But it’s just not the same. People are jumpy. Nobody likes to be near anyone. There is a void there now in society. We are further apart because of this. Recently, my daughter came up to me quietly from behind and startled me. She was trying to hug me. It was weird because I had been getting so used to staying away from people. It felt good. Good to be hugged. We need it.
~A.
From the drive…
Photoschmoto Photography 