Chicago

Ben has come back from his vision quest mature, more soft-spoken, just as appreciative and full of interesting experiences. I am glad to have him on this side of the world, in the same latitude and longitude as me. Even though he has been back for 5 days, it is still a treat to hear his voice as he comes in the door, or to wake up knowing he is under the same roof.

Our house is full with Ben and Andy. The challenge is to keep food in the fridge and the counters clutter-free of dishes. Small spaces create the neccessity for everyone to pretty much get along. There just isn't the room to spread out arguments or demand much personal space or airtime. Yet there is always something going on, someone to listen to or talk to.

Tonight I am away from it all. I am in a hotel room in Chicago, by myself. The quiet is calming, but loud. Typing and not talking is soothing but silent. The TV is mine to control and it has not come on. The bed is inviting but how could one person manage nine pillows by themself?

There is so much going on at home. Mikayla just got accepted to UC Berkeley! This was her "reach" school. Now she must decide between Univerisity of Puget Sound (2,300 undergrads) and UCB (23,000 undergrads). Knowing her, whatever she decides will be a good decision because she will be unwavering. Both schools are great in their own ways. I am trying not to persuade her in either direction. She will soon visit Berkeley, so she can make an educated choice.

Getting to the airport at 5:00 a.m. was a killer for me. Time to move some of the nine pillows out of my way so I have room to sleep.